Veterans Day
Always observed November 11
| Approximately 23.5 million Americans are military veterans. (Source: U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Sept. 2007) |
| Approximately 1.7 million military veterans are women. (Source: U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Oct. 2007) |
More than 16 million veterans of American wars are living, including approximately:
- 2.5 million World War II veterans
- 2.4 million Korean conflict veterans
- 7.2 million Vietnam veterans
- 2.3 million Desert Shield/Desert Storm veterans
- 802,000 Global War on Terror veterans
(Source: U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, May 2008) |
2009 Product Features
- 27 cards for Veterans Day, including two Cards With Sound featuring popular songs such as "God Bless America" by Leann Rimes with CD-like sound quality.
- Cards are offered for specific wars – including Iraq, Vietnam and World War II; for specific people – such as son, father, husband; and for branches of service.
- The collection includes active duty cards and cards for others who protect and serve.
- Messages and designs reflect remembrance, thanks, sacrifice, freedom, and pride.
- Hallmark also offers a collection of cards designed for those actively serving their country. Called America’s Heroes from Hallmark, the line includes messages such as thinking of you, miss you, thanks, and congratulations. All cards in this collection are available year-round.
Holiday History
Originally Armistice Day, Veterans Day became a national holiday in 1954 when then-President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed legislation proclaiming Nov. 11 “Veterans Day.” In 1968, a law was passed to change the national commemoration of Veterans Day to the fourth Monday in October. It became apparent that Nov. 11 was a date of historic significance to many Americans. Therefore, in 1978 Congress returned the observance to its original date.
Hallmark first offered Veterans Day cards in 2002, although it had tested Veterans Day cards in 1985 and 1999 but found little consumer interest. America’s attitude change following the 9/11 terrorist attacks on the United States, however, indicated consumer desire for Veterans Day cards.
In Stores
Available at Hallmark Gold Crown® stores nationwide and wherever Hallmark cards are sold. Use the store locator on Hallmark.com to find the nearest Hallmark Gold Crown store.