Veterans Day: A History of Honoring Service and Sacrifice

Veterans Day, observed annually on November 11 in the United States, honors the men

and women who have served in the U.S. military. It’s a day dedicated to celebrating the

courage, dedication, and sacrifice of all those who have defended our country’s

freedoms. The history of Veterans Day is rich and reflects a journey from

commemoration of peace to honoring the service of all military veterans.

Origins in Armistice Day

The roots of Veterans Day trace back to the end of World War I, often called “the war to

end all wars”. After four brutal years of fighting, an armistice between the Allied nations

and Germany took effect on November 11, 1918, at the eleventh hour of the eleventh

day of the eleventh month. The significance of this date was marked with great

celebration as peace returned to Europe and America, and the day was widely

commemorated by Allied nations.

One year later, in 1919, President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed November 11 as the first

commemoration of Armistice Day, paying tribute to the sacrifices of the soldiers who

fought and expressed hope for lasting peace. Wilson’s proclamation set the tone for the

day as a time to reflect on the horrors of war and the need to work towards peaceful

resolutions. By 1938, Armistice Day had been declared a federal holiday, recognizing

November 11 as a day to honor World War I veterans and their sacrifices.

From Armistice Day to Veterans Day

Following World War II and the Korean War, the United States saw a growing need for

recognition of the sacrifices made by veterans of all wars, not just those who served in

World War I. In 1954, driven by the advocacy of veteran organizations, President Dwight

D. Eisenhower signed a bill officially changing the holiday’s name from Armistice Day to

Veterans Day. This change reflected the nations desire to honor all veterans,

acknowledging that military service extended beyond World War I.

Eisenhower’s proclamation called on Americans to “remember the sacrifices of all those

who fought so valiantly” and urged them to dedicate themselves to preserving peace.

Veterans Day became a day of celebration and solemn reflection, where Americans

across the country could honor not only the fallen but also the living veterans who

continued to carry the torch of sacrifice and patriotism.

Veterans Day Today

Today, Veterans Day is celebrated with parades, ceremonies, and moments of silence

to honor the bravery and dedication of the U.S. military. Unlike Memorial Day, which

specifically honors those who have died in service, Veterans Day is intended to

recognize all U.S. veterans, living and deceased. Many organizations, communities, and

government entities participate in events to honor veterans, and many businesses offer

special discounts as a token of appreciation.

Veterans Day also serves as an opportunity to bring attention to issues facing veterans,

such as mental health, healthcare access, and the transition back to civilian life. For

many, it’s a reminder of the ongoing responsibilities society has towards those who

served, ensuring that they receive the support, respect, and care they deserve.

The Legacy of Veterans Day

Veterans Day stands as a testament to the courage and dedication of America’s armed

forces. It is a day to recognize the contributions of those who have served in all wars

and conflicts, honoring the sacrifices that have been made to protect and preserve the

country’s freedoms. The holiday has evolved over the past century, from a day marking

the end of World War I to one that encompasses all veterans, regardless of when or

where they served.

As Americans observe Veterans Day each year, they continue a tradition of respect,

gratitude, and remembrance, ensuring that future generations recognize and honor the

sacrifices of those who have defended the nation’s values and liberties.

As veterans ourselves, we created a special cocktail to toast our fellow brothers and

sisters in arms that we're calling The Fall In.  The all too familiar command each of us

first heard as we stepped off our buses and onto the footprints at basic training is now a

delicious cocktail to honor your service.

The Fall In

.75 oz Maple Finished Bourbon

.75 oz Widow Jane Applewood Rye

1 oz Greenbar Distillery Poppy Amaro

.5 oz Apple Brandy

.5 oz Averna Amaro

1 full dropper of Old Forester Smoked Cinnamon Bitters

Add ingredients to a mixing glass, top with ice, and stir to chill and dilute.  Strain over a

large cube of ice and garnish with expressed orange peel over the top and sink the peel

in the glass.

CAO America Cigar Review: A Patriotic Smoke with Bold Character

The CAO America cigar is part of CAO’s “World Series” line, dedicated to showcasing

regional tobacco blends inspired by different countries. The America cigar, wrapped in a

unique double wrapper with Connecticut Broadleaf Maduro and Connecticut Shade, is a

tribute to bold, full-bodied flavor with a blend that celebrates classic American tastes.

Flavor Profile

The CAO America offers a complex and robust flavor profile. Upon lighting, it greets you

with a burst of pepper and earthiness, tempered by notes of coffee and dark chocolate.

As the cigar progresses, subtler hints of cedar, leather, and a touch of sweetness

emerge, balancing the initial spice. The mix of Connecticut wrappers gives it a unique

profile: the broadleaf Maduro adds depth and strength, while the Connecticut Shade

wrapper brings a creamy smoothness. In the final third, there’s a pleasant blend of

cocoa, nuts, and a lingering earthy spice that keeps the palate engaged.

Burn and Draw

The America provides a generally smooth burn, although the dual wrapper sometimes

leads to slight unevenness in burn lines. However, it typically self-corrects, allowing for

an enjoyable and hassle-free smoking experience. The draw is ideal, with just the right

amount of resistance, enabling the smoker to enjoy each subtle flavor without

overheating the cigar. Well-packed and firm to the touch, it produces a satisfying

amount of thick, aromatic smoke.

Overall Experience

The CAO America is a fantastic cigar for anyone looking for a rich, robust smoking

experience with layers of complexity. The patriotic design and dual-wrapper construction

make it visually appealing and enjoyable to smoke and the notes of coffee, dark

chocolate and spice pair perfectly with our Veteran’s Day “Fall In” cocktail. For fans of

full-bodied cigars, the CAO America delivers in flavor, craftsmanship, and an overall

experience that makes it well worth a try.