November 11, 2013 Veterans Day is on November 11. It is an American holiday to honor men and women who have completed military service or who are currently.

November 11, 2013

Veterans Day is on November 11. It is an American holiday to honor men and women who have completed military service or who are currently serving in the military. It is a federal holiday, so banks, post offices, and government buildings are closed.

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Veterans Day

The American Flag is a symbol for Veteran’s DayDo you know how many stars are on the flag? What do the stripes mean?

Red – Hardness and CourageWhite – Purity and InnocenceBlue - Vigilance, Perserverance and Justice

What is a Veteran?• a person who has had long service or experience in an occupation, office, or the like•a person who has served in a military force•Military Definition: a veteran is defined as a person who served in the active military, naval, or air service, and who was discharged or released there from under conditions other than dishonorable

Veterans Day is intended to thank and honor all those who served honorably in the military – in wartime or peacetime.  In fact, Veterans Day is largely intended to thank living Veterans for their service, to acknowledge that their contributions to our national security are appreciated, and to underscore the fact that all those who served – not only those who died – have sacrificed and done their duty. There are approximately 23.2 million military veterans in the United States.

What does “service” mean? Veterans have served in the U.S. armed forces. What are other forms of service people in our country perform?

Origins of Veterans DayVeterans Day originated as "Armistice Day" on Nov. 11, 1919, the first anniversary of the end of World War I. Congress passed a resolution in 1926 for an annual observance, and Nov. 11 became a national holiday beginning in 1938. In 1954, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed legislation changing the name to Veterans' Day in order to honor veterans of all American wars.

There are five branches of the armed forces in the United States: Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, and Coast Guard.

ArmyAs the oldest branch of the U.S. Military, the Army protects the security of the United States and its resources. The Army generally moves in to an area, secures it, and instills order and values before it leaves. It also guards U.S. installations and properties throughout the world.

Marine CorpsThe Marine Corps is known as the U.S.' rapid-reaction force. They are trained to fight by sea and land, and usually are the first "boots on the ground."

Navy The Navy accomplishes its missions primarily by sea, but also by air and land. It secures and protects the oceans around the world to create peace and stability, making the seas safe for travel and trade.

Air ForceThe U.S. Air Force protects American interests at home and abroad with a focus on air power. The primary mission of the USAF is to fly planes, helicopters, and satellites.

Coast GuardThe Coast Guard's mission is primarily with domestic waterways. The Coast Guard does rescues, law enforcement, drug prevention, and clears waterways.

Loyal

honest friendwarrior soldier trooper brave

Defend

Protect

peace

November 11, 2013

Dear Veteran,

My name is Rocco McSmit. I am in 4th grade.

I want to thank you for serving our country. You are very brave. I am thankful that you protected and defended our freedom.

When I grow up I want to serve my country too.

Your Friend, Rocco