Veterans Day
Veterans Day, observed each year on November 11th, stands as one of the nation’s most significant commemorations. It is a day dedicated to honoring all who have served in the United States Armed Forces, including those who defended the nation in times of war, safeguarded peace in times of uncertainty, and contributed to the strength and resilience of American communities.
The origins of Veterans Day trace back to the end of World War I. On November 11th, 1918, the Allied powers and Germany signed an armistice that ended fighting on the Western Front. The date became known as Armistice Day, a moment of global relief and hope. In 1938, Congress declared Armistice Day a national holiday dedicated to world peace and to honoring World War I veterans. After World War II and the Korean War, many Americans felt the observance should recognize veterans of all military service, not only those who served in World War I.
Kansas played a unique role in that movement through the city of Emporia, widely recognized as the “Founding City of Veterans Day.” In 1953, local World War II veteran Alvin J. King organized a community effort to expand Armistice Day into a holiday honoring all U.S. veterans. The movement gained national support, helping pave the way for the legislation signed by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1954 that officially renamed the observance Veterans Day. This Kansas connection continues to highlight the importance of recognizing the service and sacrifices of veterans, military-affiliated individuals, and their families.
Today, Veterans Day honors more than 19 million living veterans across the United States. These individuals represent every branch of service and reflect a wide range of experiences, backgrounds, and contributions. Some served in major conflicts; others supported humanitarian missions, disaster relief, or peacekeeping operations. Many continue to serve their communities as educators, public servants, business leaders, and advocates.
Veterans Day is distinct from Memorial Day, though the two are often linked in public memory. Memorial Day honors those who died in service to the nation, while Veterans Day recognizes all who served. It is a day to express gratitude, listen to veterans’ stories, and acknowledge the sacrifices made by service members and their families. Military service often requires long separations, physical and emotional hardship, and a willingness to place the nation’s needs above one’s own. Veterans Day invites the country to reflect on these realities and to reaffirm its commitment to supporting veterans and their families throughout their lives.
Veterans Day is also a call to action, as honoring veterans requires ensuring access to quality health care, educational opportunities, employment support, and community resources. It requires listening to veterans’ experiences, recognizing their service, and addressing the challenges many face after returning to civilian life. The holiday encourages communities to strengthen their commitment to those who have served and to build a future that reflects the nation’s gratitude.
Kansas continues to hold a meaningful place in the nation’s veteran community. More than 180,000 veterans call the state home, and Kansas communities have long demonstrated deep respect for military service with annual parades and other ceremonies in honor of Veterans Day.
The state’s history includes significant military installations such as Fort Leavenworth, Fort Riley, and McConnell Air Force Base, each of which has shaped generations of service members. Kansas is also home to the Veterans Affairs Eastern Kansas Health Care System, the Kansas Commission on Veterans Affairs Office, and numerous veterans’ organizations that provide support, advocacy, and community for those who have served. At the University of Kansas, the Military-Affiliated Student Center (MASC) offers support to the military-affiliated KU community.
At the Office of Civil Rights & Title IX, we believe that when people feel a true sense of belonging, they are better able to reach their full potential and succeed. We are committed to uplifting each Jayhawk by fostering a culture where each person is seen, heard, and valued. Honoring a variety of identities, cultures, and observances allows us to make the University of Kansas a safer and more welcoming space for everyone.