Nation Honors Its Veterans on November 11

The nation marks Veterans Day on Wednesday, November 11, with ceremonies, parades, and moments of silence to honor the men and women who served in the armed forces. One of the most watched observances takes place at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia, just across the river from Washington.

Arlington National Cemetery announced that the 73rd annual National Veterans Day Observance begins at 11 a.m. at the cemetery's Memorial Amphitheater and is free and open to the public, with seating on a first come, first served basis. A musical prelude starts at 10:30 a.m., with performances by the United States Coast Guard Band and the Air Force Singing Sergeants. Visitors need to pass through a security checkpoint to attend, and the cemetery suggests arriving early because of lines and screening.

There is one notable limit this year. The wreath laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, a solemn tradition near the start of the day, is open only to official participants. According to the cemetery's announcement, members of the public will not be able to gather for that part of the program this year, though they can still take part in the broader observance inside the amphitheater, including a parade of colors by veterans organizations and remarks from invited speakers.

Veterans Day traces back to the end of the First World War. The fighting stopped on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918, and the day was first known as Armistice Day before it was renamed to honor all who have served in uniform. The day honors every veteran, with special thanks to those who are still living. That sets it apart from Memorial Day in the spring, which remembers those who died in service.

Across the country, communities hold their own events, and many businesses and restaurants offer free meals or discounts to veterans who show proof of service. For families, the day is a chance to thank a relative or neighbor who wore the uniform, visit a local memorial, or simply pause to reflect. If you cannot attend a ceremony in person, Arlington's observance is carried online, so you can still take part from home.