The History of Veterans Day
Veterans Day is the national holiday in the United States that honors all people who have served in the military. The holiday began after the end of World War I.
Fighting stopped on November 11, 1918, and people celebrated the return of peace. At first, the day was called Armistice Day and was used to remember only those who served in World War I. It is different than Memorial Day as that day honors all who have died while serving in the military.
After World War II and the Korean War, Americans decided the holiday should honor all veterans who served in the military. In 1954, the name was changed from Armistice Day to Veterans Day. Since then, Veterans Day has been celebrated each year on November 11.
Today, Veterans Day honors members of all branches of the United States military: the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Coast Guard, and Space Force. Communities celebrate with ceremonies, parades, and programs that thank veterans for their service. The day reminds Americans to appreciate the people who have helped protect the country and its freedoms.
A Similar Day in Ireland
Ireland has a special event called the National Day of Commemoration. This day honors Irish men and women who died in wars or while serving in United Nations peacekeeping missions. It is held each year on the Sunday closest to July 11.
People gather for ceremonies, prayers, and wreath-laying events to remember those who served their country. Like Veterans Day in the United States, it is a time to show respect and gratitude for military service and sacrifice.
KIDS IN THE KITCHEN
Broccoli and Cheese Bites
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked broccoli florets, about 1 cup when finely chopped
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- ½ cup shredded cheese (Cheddar or any kind works)
- ¼ cup onions, finely chopped
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp salt, optional
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
- Boil broccoli florets for about 3 minutes and drain. Finely chop into small pieces and add to a bowl.
- Add the breadcrumbs, egg, cheese, chopped onion, garlic powder, and salt (if using) to the bowl with the broccoli. Mix well until combined.
- Pack into a mini muffin pan and press down. Bake at 375 for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown on top. Allow bites to completely cool before serving.
Notes: This recipe makes 20 mini bites. You can make regular-sized broccoli and cheese bites by adding a few more minutes to the total bake time.
Silicone muffin pans work better, less sticking. If using a regular mini muffin pan, be sure to coat with a cooking spray beforehand. Avoid using paper liners as these bites tend to stick.
Literature Corner
The Impossible Patriotism Project
By Linda Skeers
Caleb’s class is making projects that represent patriotism to display at Parents Night. But Caleb can’t think of a way to show what patriotism means to him. Besides, his dad can’t come because he is away, serving as a soldier. Then when Caleb really starts thinking about what his dad is doing for the country, inspiration finally strikes! For ages 4-6, 32 pages.
Fish in a Tree
By Lynda Mullaly Hunt
Sixth grader ally may be smart, but things aren’t easy for her. Her military dad has been deployed oversees, and she’s struggling in school because of an undiagnosed learning disability.
But with a new teacher and a supportive group of buddies, Ally may have a chance to come out of her shell and find her own, unique way. For ages 9-12, 320 pages.
Lardie’s Laughs
Q: What do you call a turkey the day after Thanksgiving?
A: Lucky!
Q: What did the turkey say to the computer?
A: Google, google!
Gab in Gaelic
Happy Thanksgiving = Lá an Altaithe sona duit (pron. Law on Awl-tee-ha sun-ah ditch)
