US Employers Guide to Veterans Day

Veterans Day, observed annually on November 11th, is a significant American holiday dedicated to honoring military veterans who have served in the United States Armed Forces. As a US-based employer, understanding the importance of Veterans Day and actively recognizing the contributions of veterans in the workplace can contribute to a supportive and appreciative company culture. In this guide, we'll explore specific dates, the level of importance, background, cultural practices, and how employers can appropriately celebrate and communicate Veterans Day while ensuring legal and compliance considerations.

Specific Dates to Keep in Mind

Veterans Day is a fixed holiday observed on November 11th each year.

Level of Importance

Veterans Day holds a high level of importance in the United States. It is a federal holiday dedicated to honoring the courage and sacrifice of military veterans.

Background on the Holiday

Originally known as Armistice Day, Veterans Day commemorates the end of World War I and pays tribute to all American veterans, living or deceased. It became a federal holiday in 1938.

Specific Cultural Practices

Cultural practices on Veterans Day include attending parades, participating in memorial ceremonies, and visiting veterans' memorials. Many people also choose to express their gratitude to veterans through acts of kindness or by volunteering in support of veterans' causes.

Specific Items

While there are no specific items associated with Veterans Day practices, the display of the American flag is a common way to show respect for veterans.

Specific Foods

There are no specific foods directly tied to Veterans Day, but many restaurants and businesses offer free meals or discounts to veterans as a gesture of appreciation.

Celebrating Veterans Day as a US Employer

Celebrating Veterans Day in the workplace involves recognizing and expressing gratitude to employees who are veterans. Consider these strategies:

• Acknowledgment: Publicly acknowledge and thank veteran employees for their service. This can be done through a company-wide message, a moment of recognition in a team meeting, or even a small ceremony.
• Veteran Employee Spotlights: If employees are comfortable, feature veteran employees in spotlights or profiles to share their experiences and contributions.

• Support Veterans' Causes: Consider organizing or supporting initiatives that contribute to veterans' causes, such as fundraising, volunteering, or partnerships with veteran-focused organizations.

Communicating Veterans Day to Your Teams

Subject: Honoring Our Veterans - A Message of Gratitude

Dear [Team],

As Veterans Day approaches, we want to take a moment to express our deepest gratitude to the veterans among us and to all who have served in the United States Armed Forces. Your courage, sacrifice, and dedication have made an enduring impact, and we are immensely thankful for your service.

On November 11th, we will take a moment to acknowledge and honor our veteran colleagues. If you are a veteran or know a colleague who is, we invite you to share your experiences if you are comfortable doing so. Your stories are an important part of our shared history.

Wishing everyone a reflective and appreciative Veterans Day.

Warm regards, [Your Company]

Legal and Compliance

• Sensitive Communication: Be mindful of the solemnity of the day in any communications. Avoid using Veterans Day as a promotional or celebratory theme.
• Recognition Policies: Ensure that your recognition policies are inclusive and considerate of veterans, providing equal opportunities for acknowledgment.
• Veterans' Day Off: If feasible, consider offering veterans a day off or flexible work arrangements as a gesture of appreciation.

Observing Veterans Day in the workplace is an opportunity to express gratitude and support for those who have served in the military. By fostering an environment that recognizes and values the contributions of veterans, employers can contribute to a workplace culture that is both respectful and inclusive.