After watching UK’s Remembrance Day ceremonies on TV on Sunday, November 10^th, and knowing that today, November 11^th is Veterans Day in the US, I started wondering about the difference between these important days in our calendar. What exactly is the difference between our Veterans Day and Memorial Day? And, how does it fit with the UK’s Remembrance Day. Here is a very brief history.

Armistice Day: Established in to commemorate the Armistice of World War I, which occurred at the 11^th hour, of the 11^th day, of the 11^th month in 1918 (November 11, 1918) with the formal end of hostilities with Germany. At that very moment, it became “All Quiet on the Western Front.” A year later, in 1919, the Armistice Day was instituted. The name was changed to Veterans Day in 1954.

Veterans Day: Formerly known as Armistice Day. Veterans Day is a holiday that has been observed since WWI. It started in 1919, and used to be known as Armistice Day. It was renamed Veterans Day in 1954, and honors and commemorates the service of all veterans of the US Military.

Memorial Day: Memorial Day is very distinct from Veterans Day, because it memorializes only those who have died while serving in the Armed Forces. It started in 1868, in honor of the Union Soldiers who died in the US Civil War. Since that time, it has become a day to remember all who fought and died in service. It is observed on the last Monday in May.

Remembrance Day in the UK: Once known as Poppy Day is observed in UK and in Commonwealth member states. Again, this specific day started out as Armistice Day, too. Today, Remembrance Day honors armed forces members who died in the line of duty and is similar to our Memorial Day.

Wisconsin Harley-Davidson extends a hearty “Thank you” to all who have served. Thank you for making it possible for us to enjoy the ride.