What Is Veterans Day?
Every year on November 11, people across the United States observe Veterans Day. It is a special holiday to thank veterans for their work.
Who is a veteran? A veteran is a person who served in the armed forces, such as the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, or Space Force.
Many veterans live and work in our towns today. You might see a veteran driving a bus, teaching a class, or shopping at a store.
Veterans did many different jobs when they were in the armed forces. Not every veteran fought in a war.
Some veterans fixed trucks, airplanes, or large ships. Others cooked meals, cared for sick people, or helped after big storms.
People sometimes mix up Veterans Day and Memorial Day, which happens in May. Memorial Day is a quiet day to remember people who died while serving in the armed forces. Veterans Day is different because it honors all veterans, especially the many veterans who are living today.
Communities have many calm and friendly ways to mark November 11. Some towns hold a morning parade with marching bands and flags.
Schools might invite veterans to visit and talk about the jobs they did. Children often draw colorful pictures or write thank-you cards to share.
- observe:
- To celebrate or mark a special day or holiday.
- honors:
- Shows great respect and thanks toward someone.
- parade:
- A public celebration where people and bands march down the street.
- pause:
- To stop what you are doing for a short time.
- silence:
- Complete quiet with no sound or talking.
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Preview questions from this passageShowHide
- 1When do people across the United States observe Veterans Day?
- 2According to the passage, who is a veteran?
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About this informational passage for Lower Elementary
“What Is Veterans Day?” is a informational reading passage about Veterans Day, written for Lower Elementary. It takes about 2 minutes to read (243 words) and comes with an interactive quiz and a printable worksheet with comprehension questions and an answer key.