Veterans Day is a United States federal holiday observed annually on November 11. This date commemorates the anniversary of the armistice that ended World War I on November 11, 1918. The day is designated to honor all individuals who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces.
The observance date is fixed by federal statute. Unlike several other federal holidays, its date was not altered by the Uniform Monday Holiday Act of 1968. While the Act initially moved the holiday to the fourth Monday in October, widespread public sentiment led to the passage of Public Law 94-97 in 1975, which returned the official observance to its traditional date of November 11, effective in 1978. This legislative history underscores the historical significance of the specific date.
For purposes of pay and leave for federal employees, the day of observance is adjusted when November 11 falls on a non-workday. If the date falls on a Saturday, the holiday is observed on the preceding Friday. If the date falls on a Sunday, it is observed on the following Monday. State and local governments, as well as private businesses, may or may not follow this federal schedule for closures.
