Veterans Day is a public holiday designated to honor all individuals who have served in the United States Armed Forces. The term "veteran" in this context is a noun, broadly defined by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs as a person who served in the active military, naval, or air service and was separated under any condition other than dishonorable. The observance is not limited to those who are retired, but encompasses anyone who has served, regardless of length of service, whether they served in wartime or peacetime, or their current military status.
The inclusive nature of this holiday is best understood by distinguishing it from two other military-related observances. Memorial Day, observed in May, is specifically for honoring the military personnel who have died in the line of duty. In contrast, Armed Forces Day, also in May, honors those who are currently serving in the military. Veterans Day uniquely focuses on showing gratitude and appreciation for all living individuals who have previously served in the armed forces, filling a distinct role in the nation's calendar of remembrance and honor.
Therefore, the practical application of the holiday is to recognize the complete spectrum of military service. It acknowledges the contributions of former active-duty personnel, reservists, and members of the National Guard who have completed their service. The defining characteristic for recognition on this day is the act of having served the country in uniform, making it a comprehensive day of thanks for all living veterans, not just a specific subset such as retirees.
