(EYT) – Veterans Day is observed on November 11, 2012. Our country celebrates Veterans Day to honor and thank all military personnel who served the United States in all wars.

On November 11, 1919, Veterans Day originated as Armistice Day — the first anniversary of the end of World War I.

In 1926, Congress passed a resolution for an annual observance, and November 11 became a national holiday beginning in 1938.

In 1954, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed legislation to change the name to Veterans Day as a way to honor those who served in all American wars.

On this day, a national ceremony takes place at the Tomb of the Unknowns at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia.

Throughout the nation, November 11 honors military veterans with parades, speeches, church services, and in many places, the American flag is hung at half mast.