Nation/World

Veterans Day: Photos, tweets, stories from across the US

On Veterans Day, Americans honor the men and women who serve and have served in the military.

On November 11, 1919, the first anniversary of the end of World War I, the nation observed "Armistice Day" to honor those who had served in the war.

Congress passed a resolution in 1926 to make it an annual observance, and in 1938 the date of November 11 became a national holiday. President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed legislation in 1954 to change the name of the holiday to Veterans Day in order to honor those who served in all American wars.

Since then, Veterans Day has been marked annually with parades, speeches and observances across the country.

This morning President Barack Obama paid homage to veterans by laying a wreath at Arlington National Cemetery. The President and first lady also hosted a breakfast at the White House for veterans and their families.

In his Veterans Day speech, Obama said that the country's obligations to those who have served "endure long after the battle ends."

Across the country, people are sharing photos, videos and stories to show their appreciation.

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We highlight the best below.

[View the story "Veterans Day 2013" on Storify]

By Vera Bergengruen

McClatchy Washington Bureau

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