Veterans Day 2017: When is it and how does the US mark it?

Veterans Day is observed annually on November 11

Employment Fair Held Aboard The USS Hornet Sea Air And Space Museum in Alameda, California (Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images) (Getty Images)

What does Veterans Day mark?

The public holiday honours all US military veterans. It also coincides with other holidays, including Armistice Day and Remembrance Day, which are celebrated in other countries to mark the end of World War I.

The US previously observed Armistice Day, but the holiday was was renamed Veterans Day in 1954.

When is it?

Veterans Day is observed annually on November 11.

Why is it held on 11 November?

World War I ended on the 11th hour of the 11th Day of the 11th month. At 5.00 am that day, Germany – devoid of supplies and manpower and facing an invasion – signed an armistice agreement with the Allies in a railroad car outside Compiegne, France.

How do Americans mark it?

Because it is considered a federal holiday, some American workers and students have Veterans Day off from work or school.

When Veterans Day falls on a Saturday, then the preceding Friday may be designated as the holiday. If it falls on a Sunday, then the holiday is typically observed on the following Monday. This year, it is being celebrated on Friday, November 10.

Non-essential federal government offices are closed and no mail is delivered.