Veterans Day originated as Armistice Day, which commemorated the end of World War I on November 11, 1918. The date was chosen because it marked the signing of the armistice agreement between the Allied forces and Germany that ended the war.
In the United States, Armistice Day was first celebrated on November 11, 1919. President Woodrow Wilson issued a proclamation calling for a day of remembrance for those who had served in the war and for the celebration of peace.
In 1926, Congress passed a resolution formally designating November 11 as Armistice Day. The resolution also called for the display of the American flag on all public buildings and the sounding of taps at 11:00 a.m. on Armistice Day.
In 1938, Armistice Day was expanded to include all veterans of the United States armed forces. The name was changed to Veterans Day in 1954, and the holiday was officially recognized by Congress in 1959.
Veterans Day is now celebrated annually on November 11 in the United States. It is a day to honor all veterans, living and dead, who have served their country in the military.