The Sweet Story Behind National Donut Day
Every year on the first Friday in June, bakeries across the United States celebrate National Donut Day by handing out frosted, glazed, and jelly-filled treats. Many people assume this holiday was invented by modern donut shops just to sell more breakfast pastries. In reality, the day began with a much deeper purpose. It was created in 1938 to honor a dedicated group of volunteers who served simple comfort foods during difficult times.
During World War I, American troops traveled overseas to France. Life for these soldiers was grim, exhausting, and filled with hardship. They spent weeks living in damp, chilly trenches, often feeling terribly homesick and worn down. To help lift their spirits, an organization called The Salvation Army sent about 250 volunteers abroad. Most of these volunteers were young women, and their mission was to provide aid, write letters home for injured troops, and offer friendly encouragement.
- trenches:
- Long, narrow ditches dug into the ground used by soldiers for protection during battle.
- makeshift:
- Made quickly as a temporary replacement using whatever items are on hand.
- scarce:
- Hard to find or available in very small amounts.
- improvised:
- Created or solved a problem without preparation using whatever tools were available.
- tribute:
- An act, statement, or gift that shows respect, gratitude, or honor for someone.
- tradition:
- A custom, belief, or activity that is passed down and continued over many years.
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Preview questions from this passageShowHide
- 1What misconception do many people have about the origins of National Donut Day?
- 2Why did The Salvation Army send volunteers overseas to France during World War I?
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About this explanatory article passage for 4th Grade
“The Sweet Story Behind National Donut Day” is a explanatory article reading passage about History of National Donut Day, written for 4th Grade. It takes about 3 minutes to read (473 words) and comes with an interactive quiz and a printable worksheet with comprehension questions and an answer key.