Veterans Day Facts that May Surprise You ... Including Freebies

The Leavenworth, KS, Veterans Day Parade is the oldest Veterans Day observance in the nation and the largest parade west of the Mississippi. This year it’s November 12th starting at 10:30 am (Central).
Many restaurants show their appreciation by offering veterans free meals as part of their Veterans Day observance. Check out this list of Veterans Day freebies.

Veteran’s Day began as Armistice Day on Nov. 11, 1919, the first anniversary of the end of World War I. In 1954, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed legislation changing the name to Veterans Day to honor veterans of all American wars.

The holiday always falls on the 11th day of the 11th month and official celebrations in Washington DC start at Arlington Cemetery at 11:00 am.

However, when Veterans Day occurs on a Sunday, the following Monday is designated for holiday leave.  If it occurs on a Saturday, then either Saturday or Friday may be designated.

From 1968-1975, Veterans Day was celebrated in October instead of November. It may surprise you. Watch this video to find out why.

This year in honor of Veterans Day, over 100 national parks will waive admission fees for all visitors November 10-12, 2012. Military families can also get a free annual pass to more than 2,000 national parks.

Please help us honor America’s finest and bravest by sending free Veterans Day eCards from USBA.

We salute our USBA members and all veterans!