Honoring Those Who Serve

Please note: This Skillbuilder will be available from Monday to Tuesday, November 10–11. A new one launches on Wednesday, November 12.

Every year on November 11, Americans celebrate Veterans Day — a time to honor the brave men and women who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. That includes the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Coast Guard, and National Guard.

Veterans Day is often mistaken for Memorial Day, but the two holidays are different:

• Memorial Day honors those who died in war.

• Veterans Day celebrates all who have served, especially the living, to thank them for their service.

The holiday began as Armistice Day in 1919, marking the end of World War I. In 1954, it was renamed Veterans Day to include all U.S. veterans. Though its date was briefly moved in the 1970s, it was officially restored to November 11 to honor the original armistice agreement that ended WWI.

Many countries also pause on November 11 to remember their soldiers. France and New Zealand still call it Armistice Day, while the UK, Canada, and Australia observe Remembrance Day.

There are countless ways to show appreciation: attend a parade, visit a veteran’s center, write a letter, or simply say “thank you” to someone who has served.

Your Task:
Design a simple way to honor veterans at your school or in your town.
It could be:

• A wall of appreciation with thank-you notes.

• A video tribute interviewing veterans or military families.

• A social media post or campaign highlighting what service means.

Be creative — your idea could make a real impact!