The central subject of the query, "Veterans Day," functions as a proper noun. As a national holiday in the United States, Veterans Day is observed annually on a fixed date: November 11. This date was chosen to commemorate the armistice that marked the end of major hostilities in World War I, which went into effect on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918.
Legally established as a federal holiday, its observance on November 11 is consistent nationwide for federal institutions and many state and local governments. From 1971 to 1977, its observance was briefly moved to the fourth Monday of October under the Uniform Monday Holiday Act. However, due to the historical significance of the November 11 date, legislation was passed in 1975 to return the official observance to its original date, a change which took effect in 1978. When November 11 falls on a Saturday, the holiday is typically observed by federal employees on the preceding Friday. If it falls on a Sunday, it is observed on the following Monday.
The practical application of this fixed-date holiday is to honor the service of all U.S. military veterans. This purpose distinguishes it from Memorial Day, which is designated to honor military personnel who died in the line of duty. The consistent observance on November 11 reinforces its historical foundation and provides a dedicated moment for the nation to recognize and express gratitude for the contributions and sacrifices of living veterans.
