History of Veterans Day

History of Veterans Day

Originally, Armistice Day commemorated the end of World War I on Nov. 11, 1918, and was observed as a national holiday. In 1954, then-President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed legislation proclaiming Nov. 11 Veterans Day, as a way to honor those who served in all American wars. In 1968, a law was passed to change the national commemoration of Veterans Day to the fourth Monday in October. It soon became apparent that Nov. 11 was a date of historic significance to many Americans, however, and in 1978 Congress returned the observance to its original date.

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Hallmark first offered Veterans Day cards in 2002. The company had tested Veterans Day cards in 1985 and 1999, but found little consumer interest. A resurgence in patriotism following the 9/11 terrorist attacks on the United States, however, was reflected by consumers seeking ways to honor those who serve and protect, and that included an increased demand for Veterans Day cards.