The American Legion helped redefine Armistice Day as Veterans Day, the first of which was celebrated 70 years ago this year.

Dear American Legion Family members and friends,

This Veterans Day marks 70 years since the holiday was changed from Armistice Day, which came about because of a push by The American Legion starting in 1920.

Armistice Day — “dedicated to the cause of world peace” — was first held in 1929.

But as we know all too well World War II and the Korean War soon silenced that world peace.

In response, The American Legion envisioned a new version of the holiday in 1953. That year in Emporia, Kan., it led an “All Veterans Day” celebration — which eventually gave life to the new holiday.

But it was not without a struggle. Following more than three years of American Legion support for a change in the federal holiday’s name, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed a proclamation Oct. 8, 1954, making it official. It read in part:

“(I) call upon all of our citizens to observe Thursday, November 11, 1954, as Veterans Day. On that day let us solemnly remember the sacrifices of all those who fought so valiantly, on the seas, in the air, and on foreign shores, to preserve our heritage of freedom, and let us reconsecrate ourselves to the task of promoting an enduring peace so that their efforts shall not have been in vain. I also direct the appropriate officials of the Government to arrange for the display of the flag of the United States on all public buildings on Veterans Day.

“In order to insure proper and widespread observance of this anniversary, all veterans, all veterans' organizations, and the entire citizenry will wish to join hands in the common purpose.”

It’s telling that the only American holiday honoring a specific occupation is for veterans.

We’ve served our nation with pride, sacrifice and honor.

Some may argue that every day should be Veterans Day.

For The American Legion, it is. Our volunteers and staff work tirelessly every day on behalf of our nation’s veterans. And they will do so again today, hosting Veterans Day events, honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice and performing Buddy Checks.

But what makes today truly special is how our nation pauses, reflects and expresses gratitude to all who served.

And allow me to share my own sense of gratitude, from me to you: Happy Veterans Day, especially today.

National Commander

James LaCoursiere Jr.