Home of the Free... Because of the Brave
In 1919, President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed November 11th as Armistice Day to remind Americans of the tragedies of war. This was one year following the signing of the armistice that ended World War I (11:00 AM on November 11th, 1918). The day became a federal holiday in 1938.
Veterans Day is intended to thank and honor all those who have served honorably in the military (U.S. Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, and Coast Guard) — in wartime and peace. It's not to be confused with Memorial Day (celebrated in May), which honors those who died in service.
Here are some interesting facts about this holiday:
- Great Britain, France, and other countries celebrate November 11th as Armistice Day. Canada celebrates Remembrance Day on this same date.
- During World War I, Walt Disney served as a Red Cross ambulance driver. Disney Studios produced over 90,000 feet of training film during World War II to train the Navy's sailors on navigation tactics.
- In 1954, Congress changed the holiday name from Armistice Day to Veterans Day to honor all United States Veterans.
- A National Ceremony is held each year on November 11th at 11:00 AM at Arlington National Cemetery. The traditional event is held at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier to commemorate the end of World War I and honor all of those members of each of the military who lost their lives while serving their country.
Are you looking for a family activity for Veterans Day? Write a thank-you letter to a veteran or current armed forces member or create a care package to send overseas. If you don't know anyone personally, Operation Gratitude will help you find an opportunity to express your thanks.
Many local family-friendly destinations offer military or Veterans Day discounts, including:
- National Parks: 100+ national parks that usually charge entrance fees are free for EVERYONE on Sunday, November 11th, 2018.
- Colorado State Parks: Free admission for veterans and active-duty military and their families who enter a park in the same vehicle on Sunday, November 11th, 2018.
- Cave of the Winds: Military discounts every day with ID for service members (active or retired) and all members in their group.
- Cheyenne Mountain Zoo: Military discounts every day with military ID (active or retired).
- Colorado Railroad Museum: Discounted admission for active military.
- Denver Museum of Nature & Science: All members of the military receive a $3 discount on general admission and/or a 10% discount on Dual through Family Plus memberships.
- Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum: Discounted admission every day for active military and veterans.
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