Four questions about Veterans Day answered

In honor of Veterans Day 2018 (the centennial of Armistice Day), we answer four common questions about the holiday.

When is Veterans Day observed?
Veterans Day is always observed November 11, a date that commemorates the peace agreement signed on November 11, 1918 that brought an end to the fighting during World War I. Since Veterans Day falls on a Sunday this year, some federal government offices, schools and businesses may be closed on Monday, November 12 in observance of the holiday.

How is Veterans Day different from Memorial Day?
Memorial Day, celebrated each year on the last Monday in May, is a day to remember those who lost their lives while serving in the U.S. military. Veterans Day is intended to honor all Americans, living and dead, who’ve been in the armed forces. It’s a time to thank the veterans in our communities as well as the men and women who are currently serving our country.

Is Veterans Day celebrated in other countries?
In countries like Canada, the UK, France and Australia, November 11 is a day to remember the armistice that ended World War I and those who fought in their countries’ armed forces. In these countries, however, the focus is on remembering those who sacrificed their lives rather than honoring living veterans.

Which spelling is correct: Veterans Day, Veteran’s Day or Veterans’ Day?
Although Veteran’s Day and Veterans’ Day are commonly used, the correct spelling is Veterans Day. According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs website, the possessive form is incorrect “because it is not a day that ‘belongs’ to veterans, it is a day for honoring all veterans.”