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Question

Wave a flag. Write a letter. Cheer at a parade. There are lots of ways to celebrate Veterans Day. But they all send the same message: "Thank you for your service." On November 11, Americans honor veterans and show appreciation for their service.

Who, exactly, are the VIPs (Very Important Persons) this holiday honors? American veterans are people who served in the U.S. Armed Forces. Examples of the armed forces include the Air Force, Army, and Navy. There are about 19 million veterans living in the country today.

Veterans Day falls on the 11th day of the 11th month. The date has special meaning. On November 11 in 1918, fighting ended at the close of World War I. One year later, U.S. President Woodrow Wilson declared the date a holiday. Its purpose was to pay tribute to veterans of World War I. But other wars followed. The United States fought in World War II and the Korean War. In 1954 Veteran's Day became a time to celebrate all American veterans.

For many of today's veterans, November 11 is a day to think about their service. Mark Lucas is a veteran. He said the occasion makes him feel both proud and humble. "It was an honor to have been in the Air Force, to have served my country…to preserve the freedom Americans hold so dear," he said. Yet Lucas understands that other veterans made even greater sacrifices than he did. He says that he is grateful to them.

Susan Temme echoed that idea. She also served in the Air Force. Temme feels that the true heroes are those who lost their lives serving their country. She says that Americans should remember these soldiers on Veterans Day. But Temme feels very proud of her service, too. "I was part of something much, much greater than myself," she explained.

Veterans have done a lot for Americans. On Veterans Day, Americans get a chance to do something for them. There are many ways you can pay your respects and show your gratitude.

Go to a parade or other Veterans Day event.
Write thank you letters to veterans. You could also send cards to those who are currently serving in the armed forces.
Wear a red paper poppy. They are often worn as a sign of respect for veterans.
Invite a veteran to speak in your classroom. Some are willing to answer questions about their experiences.
However you decide to mark the day, your efforts are likely to be appreciated by veterans like Mark Lucas. "I'm grateful that the country takes a little time to acknowledge its veterans," he said.

Answer 1

Veterans Day, celebrated on November 11, honors American veterans—those who served in the U.S. Armed Forces, including the Air Force, Army, and Navy. This date marks the end of World War I in 1918 and was established as a holiday by President Woodrow Wilson in 1919 to honor veterans of that war. Over the years, the holiday evolved to recognize all American veterans. With approximately 19 million veterans in the U.S., the day prompts reflection on their sacrifices.

Veterans like Mark Lucas and Susan Temme express pride in their service while recognizing the greater sacrifices made by others, particularly those who lost their lives. Veterans Day provides an opportunity for Americans to demonstrate gratitude through various actions, such as attending parades, writing thank-you letters, wearing red poppies, or inviting veterans to share their experiences. The overall message of the day is appreciation for their service and sacrifices.