On this day in 1918, a cease fire went into effect, ending what was at the time called “the war to end all wars”, now known as World War I.
The armistice was officially signed on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, which was then termed Armistice Day.
In 1938, the day was made a federal holiday, and President Dwight D. Eisenhower renamed the national holiday as Veteran’s Day, stating in his proclamation that it was “to insure proper and widespread observance of this anniversary, all veterans, all veterans’ organizations, and the entire citizenry will wish to join hands in the common purpose.”
Ever since, the citizens of the United States have been celebrating those who risked their lives in Military service to ensure our great country remained a place of freedom, prosperity, and honor.
The Manitowoc County Veterans Service Office is hosting an event at the Veteran’s Memorial on North 18th Street at 11:00 today, in honor of the history of the holiday.
