Veterans Day 2026

A Brief History of Veterans Day

World War I, often referred to as “The Great War,” officially ended on June 28, 1919, when the Treaty of Versailles was signed in Versailles, France. However, the fighting stopped months earlier, when an armistice between Germany and the Allied nations was declared at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918. This date became associated with the end of the “war to end all wars".

The following year, November 11 was commemorated as Armistice Day in many countries. In the United States, the occasion was marked with parades and ceremonies. In 1926, Congress passed a resolution recognizing November 11, 1918, as a date to be commemorated annually through a presidential proclamation calling for the observance of Armistice Day and encouraging activities to promote peace and goodwill between nations.

In May 1938, Congress passed legislation, signed into law by President Franklin D. Roosevelt, making November 11, Armistice Day, a federal holiday dedicated to world peace. In 1954, Congress amended the 1938 act, changing “Armistice” to “Veterans” to recognize and honor American Veterans of all wars.

Today, Veterans Day, no matter what day of the week it falls on, is observed on November 11th. Keeping this date honors the historical significance of the armistice while continuing to recognize and honor all American Veterans of all wars who willingly and courageously served our nation.

On this Veterans Day, Local 669 Officers, Field and Office staff want to thank all our Brothers and Sisters who have served our great country. Your courage, sacrifice, and commitment to protecting the freedoms we enjoy every day deserve our respect and gratitude. We are proud to have so many veterans as part of the Local 669 family. Thank you for your service.