Veterans Day is a holiday honoring military veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces. It takes place every year on November 11th.
The history of Veterans Day traces back to World War I, which began in 1914 and ended in 1918. Major hostilities stopped on November 11th, 1918 with an Armistice (a formal agreement to cease fighting) between the Allies and Germany. The date, which was initially referred to as Armistice Day, was renamed Veterans Day in 1954.
World War I was an international conflict between France, the United Kingdom, Russia, the United States, Italy, and Japan (Allied Powers) against Germany, Austria-Hungary, the Ottoman Empire, and Bulgaria (Central Powers). The war started when Austria invaded Serbia at the end of July 1914 after the assignation of archduke Franz Ferdinand. The U.S. entered the war at the end of 1917.
This year the holiday falls on a Saturday, which means it will be observed on Friday, November 10th.
In recognition of Veterans Day, many stores are offering discounts and free meals to veterans and active-duty service members, including:
Applebee’s – Veterans and active-duty military can enjoy a free meal from a select menu. Verification of service is required. Be sure to bring a valid Military ID or proof of service.
Sizzler – Active military personnel and veterans will receive a free lunch until 4:00pm.
Goodyear Auto Service – Veterans and active-duty servicemembers will receive 10% off their purchases. The offer can be combined with all current offers. There is also a “Free Car Care for Vets” promotion which includes a free tire, alignment, brake, fuel system, and fluid checks.
Target – Active-duty military personnel, veterans and their families can receive a 10% military discount from October 29 through November 11th.
You can find more deals and discounts here.
