11 November, 1919

Veterans Day was initially known as Armistice Day and celebrated the end of World War I known at the time as “The Great War”. The armistice, or call for peace, by the Germans was signed officially with the Treaty of Versailles was signed on June 28, 1919, in the Palace of Versailles outside the town of Versailles, France.  However, the fighting ended on Nov. 11, 1918 when an armistice went into effect on the "eleventh hour" of the "eleventh day" of the "eleventh month".

Veterans Day continues to be observed on November 11, regardless of what day of the week on which it falls. The restoration of the observance of Veterans Day to November 11 not only preserves the historical significance of the date, but helps focus attention on the important purpose of Veterans Day: A celebration to honor America’s veterans for their patriotism, love of country, and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good.