This Sunday, Nov. 11, is Veterans Day, a time to recognize and honor those who have served in our nation’s military. But why that day?
The Treaty of Versailles, which ended World War I, took effect on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918.
In 1919, President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed "November 11" as the first remembrance of the end of the Great War:
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To us in America, the reflections of Armistice Day will be filled with solemn pride in the heroism of those who died in the country’s service and with gratitude for the victory, both because of the thing from which it has freed us and because of the opportunity it has given America to show her sympathy with peace and justice in the councils of the nations…
In 1926, Congress officially recognized the end of WWI and laid the foundation for Veterans Day celebrations. Later, in 1938, Congress approved Nov. 11 as “Armistice Day," changed to “Veterans Day” in 1954.
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This year, since Veterans Day falls on a weekend, it will be officially commemorated Monday, Nov. 12.
In Montgomery County, county offices and libraries will be closed, but liquor stores and recreation centers will be open. Public transportation is on modified schedules and public parking garages, lots and meters will be free.
In Prince George’s County, refuse, recycling, yard waste and bulky trash collection will operate on a normal schedule. TheBus (except for routes 51-extended, 52, 53 and Call-A-Bus will operate on a normal schedule.
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