U.S. Newswire

Today is Veteran’s Day — a time when the nation pauses to pay tribute to the men and women who have served in uniform to help preserve America’s freedom and security.

All across the country, special events will be held, ranging from small-town parades to much more elaborate ceremonies. Those taking part will especially honor those on active duty in Iraq and Afghanistan. The observance started as Armistice Day, marking the end of World War I.

By the time of the Korean War, the name was changed to Veteran’s Day to include all those who had served in the armed forces. There are some 25-million veterans in the U.S. The largest number, more than 8-million, served in Vietnam. There are nearly 4-million surviving World War II veterans.