During the U.S. Civil War, President Abraham Lincoln called on Americans in his famous Gettysburg Address to ensure that liberty “shall not perish from the earth.” His words have inspired many over the years, including millions in the nation's armed services who fought to preserve not only their nation's freedom, but that of other nations as well.
On Veterans Day, America pauses to honor these men and women and the values of duty and sacrifice they represent. Long after they leave uniform, they symbolize what it means to be a citizen of a free nation.
The holiday, observed every year on November 11, originated with the armistice that ended World War I. The conflict, fought in Asia, Africa, scattered islands in the Pacific and the waters off South America as well as on the battlefields of Europe, was seen as “the war to end all wars.” Other wars followed, however, and in 1954 President Dwight Eisenhower expanded the holiday to honor all who have served in uniform both in war and peace.
In his 2025 Veterans Day Proclamation, President Donald Trump declared, “The story of America is written with the courage, honor, and dedicated service of our veterans. Through their sacrifice, the fires of freedom burn brightly, our Republic secured, and our way of life made possible. . . .Their unyielding spirit has carried our Nation through every trial and triumph, ensuring that liberty endures for all time. This Veterans Day, we show our gratitude and recommit to honor their service, uphold their legacy, and give every veteran the loyalty, respect, and support they have earned and so dearly deserve.”
“From the moment our Nation’s Founders raised the cause of independence,” President Trump noted, “they recognized that freedom rests upon those willing to defend it. During the midst of the American Revolution, the Continental Congress enacted the first national veterans’ benefits law to care for wounded and disabled veterans. From that early act of foresight came a fundamental promise: a Nation devoted to liberty owes a debt to those who secured freedom for our people."
President Trump added, “Our Nation remains great because of those who have served honorably in uniform and committed their lives to defending our families, our freedom, and American values. Today, we extend our deepest gratitude to our Soldiers, Sailors, Marines, Airmen, Coast Guardsmen, and Guardians for their sacrifice, and we thank the families who share the burden of their service. Under my leadership, our Nation will always uphold the legacy of our veterans by keeping America strong, proud, and free — and as President, I will always have their backs.”