A Simple Breakdown of Veterans Day Parades, Events and More
What is Veteran’s Day?
Veteran’s Day was originally enacted as a holiday known as Armistice Day. This day was commemorated by President Woodrow Wilson initially in 1919. The purpose of the day was to honor the men and women who’d fought for and protected America and also signaled the end of World War I. When World War II took place, it called for the largest number of troops in America’s history. Therefore, Congress decided to change Armistice Day to Veteran’s Day to celebrate and express gratitude to all the soldiers who fought, regardless of the war they were deployed in. It doesn’t matter what day of the week Veteran’s Day falls on, it is always celebrated on November 11.
There can often be confusion as to the difference between Veteran’s Day and Memorial Day. Veteran’s Day provides an opportunity to show patriotism and thanks to all men and women who have served in a branch of the United States Military and specifically focuses on those who are still living. Memorial Day on the other hand is a solemn remembrance of the men and women served in the United States Military and gave up their lives defending the country.
Because of the great sacrifice that all these troops have given, there are countless ways to honor them.
How to Celebrate Veteran’s Day?
Communities all throughout the country find creative and engaging ways to encourage veterans and celebrate them on November 11.
Some ways to say thank you include participating in school assemblies, writing letters to a veteran or personally expressing gratitude to a veteran you know, joining parades and events in specific towns, or sharing details for discounts that organizations provide for veterans.
Here is a glimpse at different events available in a state near you!
- Arizona has several different parades that occur on November 11 and their theme this year centers around honoring Desert Storm and Operation Iraqi Freedom.
- Connecticut has events throughout the month of November including a veteran pancake breakfast and coffee with a book talk!
- Florida honors veterans by putting together a concert that is live streamed with various headliners at the MidFlorida Credit Union Amphitheater.
- Massachusetts puts on a play thanks to a Creative and Performing Arts group with Salem State University.
For complete details on parades, ceremonies, and state specific programs, check out this list.
Thank you to Veterans: Discounts, Deals, and Giving Back
Another way to thank is through giving back to the veterans who have given so much for America. Many companies and retailers find ways to provide discounts to veterans throughout the month of November.
- The 9/11 Memorial and Museum is offering complimentary tickets to veterans, active military, and their guests.
- The Aquarium of the Pacific is offering free admission.
- The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum is offering free admission for veterans and up to three immediate family members.
- National Parks are providing free admission to those parks that usually charge a fee to enter.
- Dave and Busters is providing a free ticket and a $10 Power Card for veterans at their arcade.
- The Killington Resort is providing a free lift ticket.
- Wyndham Resorts and Hotels is offering 15% their best available rates.
- Amazon is offering a 20% discount on select items for veterans.
- Ashley Furniture is giving a 10% discount off any purchase.
- Food Lion is also giving a 10% discount for in-store shopping.
- Great Clips is providing a free haircut for veterans/military service members.
- Kohl’s is giving 30% off a qualifying purchase.
For a complete list of stores and promotions, visit the sites listed under the resources used section of this blog post.
Military Benefits at Blackstone Career Institute
Blackstone Career Institute is grateful for the men and women who have sacrificed so much in order to protect our country. We count it a privilege to partner with you in your education journey to achieve your career goals with an affordable, convenient, and flexible plan that fits your needs.
Blackstone is an accredited school with a variety of career courses. In addition, we are approved to accept MyCAA and G.I. Bill financial assistance funds. To learn more about using your benefits and how to qualify for tuition assistance, you can speak to a military advisor at 800-826-9228.
Have questions about career courses at Blackstone? Speak with an academic advisor today by emailing agermani@blackstone.edu and find the best fit for you!
Written by Laura Conaway
