The History of Veterans Day
November 11th, or what has come to be known as Veterans Day, was originally set as a US legal holiday to honor Armistice Day – the end of World War I, which officially took place on November 11, 1918. In legislature that was passed in 1938, November 11 was “dedicated to the cause of world peace and to be hereafter celebrated and known as ‘Armistice Day.’ This new legal holiday honored World War I veterans.
In 1954, after World War II and the Korean War, the 83rd US Congress, at the urging of the veterans service organizations, amended the Act of 1938 by striking out the word “Armistice” and inserting the word “Veterans.” With the approval of this legislation on June 1, 1954, November 11th became a day to honor American veterans of all wars.
This year, The US Postal Service will issue special Medal of Honor stamps on Veterans Day.
Discounts for Veterans
Some are businesses are offering discounts for veterans on Monday, 11.11.13. Proof of military service (VA Universal Access Card, Military ID, discharge papers), Veterans Service Organization Card (VFW, DAV, AmVets, MOAA, FRA, and the American Legion), military spouse/dependent ID or a picture of the veteran in uniform may be required.
Certain restriction may apply and not all franchise locations participate in their national chain’s Veterans Day programs. Contact the business or check online before you visit.
Restaurants
Applebees – Free meal (limited menu)
Chili’s – Free entrée all day (limited menu)
Denny’s – Free all-you-can-eat pancakes
Golden Corral – Free dinner (4-9p)
Hooters – Free meal
Krispy Kreme – Free doughnut and small coffee
Little Caesars – Free order of Crazy Bread
Longhorn Steakhouse – Complimentary appetizer and non-alcoholic beverage (11.11-14.13)
O’Charley’s – Complimentary meal (limited menu)
Olive Garden – Free meal (limited menu) 10% off check for accompaying parties
Red Lobster – Complimentary appetizer (limited menu) (11.11-14.13)
Starbucks – Coffee
Texas Roadhouse – Free lunch (11am-2pm)
TGIFridays – Free lunch (limited menu) (11am-2pm)
Travel Centers of America – Free meals to CDL drivers who are military veterans
Retailers
Bed Bath & Beyond – 20% off entire purchase (11.9-11.13)
Dollar General – 11% off total purchase
Home Depot – 10% discount
JCPenney – Additional 20% (11. 6-11.13) Coupon required
Lowe’s – 10% discount
Sport Clips – Free haircuts
Walgreens – 15-20% off eligible items