The Difference Between Memorial Day, Veterans Day and Armed Forces Day

Memorial Day weekend is here! What has turned into one of the biggest party holidays of the year, the holiday was intended for memorializing and paying respect to the military servicemen and women who gave the ultimate sacrifice while fighting for this country.

Aside from the parties, many people still confuse Memorial Day with Veterans Day and Veterans Day with Armed Forces Day…and no, all military holidays are not the same! Here, we’re going to explain the simple yet misunderstood differences between the three holidays.

Memorial Day – is a federal holiday that honors the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military and is observed on the last Monday of May every year. Many Americans celebrate Memorial Day by visiting cemeteries or memorials, holding family gatherings and participating in local or national parades. It also unofficially marks the beginning of the summer season. Maybe that’s why Miami has unofficially become Memorial Day Weekend Headquarters in recent years.

Veterans Day – is a federal holiday that honors the men and women who previously served in the U.S. Armed Forces and are still living, though many also celebrate for the deceased as well. The holiday falls on November 11th of every year, commemorating the first anniversary of the end of World War I On November 11, 1919. Veterans Day is celebrated with parades and community gathers as well, but most just enjoy the day off, and veterans get free food at participating restaurants.

Armed Forces Day – is not a federal holiday but it is observed every third Saturday in May to honor active duty (current) service members. Armed Forces Day falls during Military Appreciation Month, joining Memorial Day and Military Spouse Appreciation Day. The holiday was created Aug. 31, 1949, By Defense Secretary Louis Johnson to replace separate Army, Navy and Air Force Days and to unify the armed forces under one agency — the Department of Defense. So this day is for those who currently wear the uniform and serve the country.

As Military Appreciation Month comes to an end, we want to take the time to say thanks to ALL men and women who have ever served in the U.S military in all branches of service. Thank you!