On November 11, 1918, at 11 a.m. – the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month - the Great War was officially over. So how did a celebration of the end of the Great War turn into Veterans Day?
Join us for an interesting discussion “The Road to Veterans Day” which will be held on Friday, Nov. 11, at 4 p.m., in the lower level of the Mary F. Shipper Library on the campus of West Virginia University Potomac State College.
The United States first began celebrating Armistice Day in 1921, when the Unknown Soldier was buried in Arlington National Cemetery. This event followed similar ceremonial burials in Westminster Abbey in London and the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, but it didn't expand to include all veterans until 1947.
Veterans have held an ever-changing role in our society, with significant changes following each major war. Join us as we discuss the major events that have shaped our understanding of Veterans Day, from red poppies to mattress sales, and from the Bonus Army to the GI Bill.
Parking is free in the afternoon, with handicapped spaces available behind the library in the parking lot between Science Hall and Fort Avenue.
Questions should be sent to Nicholas Gardner at 304-788-6901 or to ngardner@mail.wvu.edu.