Memorial Day specifically honors U.S. service members who died while serving. Veterans Day honors all U.S. military veterans, including living veterans. They are separate federal holidays with different histories and observances.
Memorial Day’s focus
Observed on the last Monday in May, Memorial Day is centered on remembrance of those who died in military service. Visiting a memorial, attending a service or learning a fallen service member’s story fits that focus.
Veterans Day’s focus
Veterans Day is November 11. It recognizes military veterans and their service more broadly. Thanking a living veteran may be appropriate on Veterans Day, while Memorial Day has a more specific remembrance emphasis.
What about Armed Forces Day?
Armed Forces Day, observed in May, recognizes people serving in the U.S. military. It is not interchangeable with either Memorial Day or Veterans Day.
How to write a respectful message
For Memorial Day, recognize sacrifice and remembrance rather than treating the date solely as a shopping event. For Veterans Day, acknowledging veterans’ service clearly reflects the observance.
Frequently asked question
Is Veterans Day always November 11?
The holiday’s statutory date is November 11, although an observed weekday can differ for some federal employees when it falls on a weekend.
Source and further reading
Reference: U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
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