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We would like to wish a very happy Veterans Day to all Americans, especially those who have served or have family who have served. It is a time for celebration, for reflection and for continued gratitude.

As an American company, Pump Products is proud to highlight this important national holiday.

Now, as an Inspector, I have inspected America’s troops and come to the conclusion that they are the best and best-trained in the world. That makes remembering the reason behind Veterans Day so important.

So, if you want to scroll down and see a list of events and discounts, go ahead. But if you are interested in the history behind this special day, read on.

The holiday actually originated as Armistice Day. It was started and signed into effect by President Woodrow Wilson in 1919 to celebrate the efforts of American serviceman in helping to win World War I. On the first Armistice Day, Wilson released a message to the nation:

“To us in America the reflections of Armistice Day will be filled with – solemn pride in the heroism of those who died in the country’s service, and with gratitude for the victory, both because of the thing from which it has freed us and because of the opportunity it has given America to show her sympathy with peace and justice in the councils of nations.”

The holiday remained a tribute to World War I veterans specifically for many years. In 1945, WWII veteran Raymond Weeks had the brilliant idea to reorganize Armistice Day to include and recognize all veterans. In 1954, the holiday was officially consecrated as Veterans’ Day in order to recognize the extraordinary service and dedication of all those who serve in the armed forces. Today, Raymond Weeks is recognized as the father of modern Veterans Day.

Since that time, Veterans Day celebrations have taken many forms, including solemn ceremonies of remembrance as well as more energetic parades, demonstrations and gatherings. Companies often extend special recognition or deals to veterans. As a federal holiday, many workers also have the day off from work.

If you are a veteran, Pump Products humbly thanks you for your service. If you know a veteran or see one tomorrow, be sure to give them a thank you as well!

For November 11, 2016 only, we are also offering a discount. Enter the code “veterans5” upon checkout when ordering online to receive $5 off of any order of $100 or more.

Veteran’s Day Events and Deals

The biggest event is probably America’s Parade which will take place in New York City. The parade is a non-partisan and non-political event to salute veterans and active military. This year’s theme will commemorate the 15th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks with a specific focus on veterans who served in Afghanistan and Iraq. Over 250 groups will be represented in the parade, including military units, civic groups and high school marching bands. See the link for schedule details. 

The National Veterans Day Ceremony will be held at 11 AM on Veterans Day in Arlington National Cemetery. A concert by the United States Army Band will be followed by a wreath-placing on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier 

Other events can be found here:  http://www.military.com/veterans-day/events.html

The Veteran’s Affairs website also has a list of various events happening by state as well as contact information for event organizers: https://www.va.gov/opa/vetsday/

Discounts: Military.com has a good inventory of discounts for veterans that are being offered by various businesses across the country: http://www.military.com/discounts.

USA Today also has good roundup of various discounts and deals here: http://www.usatoday.com/story/money/nation-now/2016/11/10/veterans-day-deals-and-freebies/93552734/.

Keep in mind that Military ID or uniform might be required to receive some deals.

.Did You Know?

Point of Confusion: People sometimes get confused about the difference between Veterans’ Day and Memorial Day. Memorial Day is specifically to honor those who died while in active military service while Veterans’ Day is a celebration of all who served.

Apostrophe Now?: The holiday is called Veterans Day (as opposed to Veteran’s Day or Veterans’ Day) because the name is meant to denote a celebration of veterans rather than possession, according to the US Department of Veterans Affairs.