Every year, the United States commemorates Veterans Day, a special day dedicated to honouring the courageous men and women who have served in the armed forces. This significant holiday not only pays tribute to the sacrifices and contributions of veterans but also serves as a reminder of the profound impact they have had on our nation's history and freedom.
How well do you understand the importance and history of Veterans Day? Challenge yourself and deepen your appreciation for this pivotal day by taking our quiz designed to test your Veterans Day knowledge.
1. What was the original name of Veterans Day?
a) Armistice Day
b) Remembrance Day
c) Patriot Day
d) Memorial Day
Answer: a)
Explanation: According to the Veteran Affairs Organisation, "The first celebration using the term Veterans Day occurred in Birmingham, Alabama, in 1947. Raymond Weeks, a World War II veteran, organized "National Veterans Day," which included a parade and other festivities, to honor all veterans. The event was held on November 11, then designated Armistice Day. Later, U.S. Representative Edward Rees of Kansas proposed a bill that would change Armistice Day to Veterans Day."
2. Why is Veterans Day observed on November 11th?
a) It marks the end of World War II.
b) It coincides with the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
c) It honours the birthday of a famous military leader.
d) It commemorates the end of World War I.
Answer: d)
Explanation: The U.S. Embassy Argentina mentions: "Veterans Day originated in the Armistice Day holiday commemorating the November 11, 1918, armistice at 11 a.m. (hence “the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month”), which suspended active hostilities and effectively ended the First World War."
3. In what year was Armistice Day officially changed to Veterans Day?
a) 1918
b) 1945
c) 1954
d) 1973
Answer: c)
Explanation: November 11 became an official national holiday in the United States in 1938. In 1954 the name was changed to Veterans Day to honour those who had served in all U.S. wars.
4. What is the difference between Veterans Day and Memorial Day?
a) Veterans Day honours all veterans, living or dead, while Memorial Day honours those who died in service.
b) Veterans Day is a national holiday, while Memorial Day is a federal holiday.
c) Veterans Day focuses on war, while Memorial Day focuses on peace.
d) There is no difference; they celebrate the same thing.
Answer: a)
Explanation: The Home for Our Troops Organisation states: "Memorial Day, which falls on the last Monday in May, honors the men and women who died while serving in the military. This solemn occasion is a time to reflect on these American patriots who made the ultimate sacrifice while protecting and defending the country they deeply loved. Veterans Day, observed every November 11, recognizes all who have served in the Armed Forces."
5. How many branches of the United States Armed Forces are there?
a) 4
b) 5
c) 6
d) 7
Answer: c)
Explanation: Defending the United States, the U.S. Armed Forces encompass six branches: the Army, Marines, Navy, Air Force, Space Force, and Coast Guard.
6. What is the highest military decoration awarded by the United States?
a) Purple Heart
b) Bronze Star
c) Silver Star
d) Medal of Honor
Answer: d)
Explanation: The U.S. Department of Defense mentions, "The nation's highest military award for valor is the Medal of Honor, presented by the president in Congress' name."
7. What traditional symbol is often associated with Veterans Day?
a) A poppy flower
b) A white dove
c) The American flag
d) A bald eagle
Answer: a)
Explanation: The red poppy is a powerful symbol deeply connected to Veterans Day. Inspired by the poem "In Flanders Fields," which references poppies growing among the graves of World War I soldiers, the red poppy became a symbol of remembrance.
8. The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is located at:
a) The Vietnam Veterans Memorial
b) The Lincoln Memorial
c) Arlington National Cemetery
d) The White House
Answer: c)
Explanation: The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is located at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia, United States.
9. "Taps" is a bugle call traditionally played at military funerals. What instrument is typically used to play "Taps" today?
a) Trumpet
b) Flute
c) Drum
d) Bugle
Answer: a)
Explanation: While the bugle is the traditional instrument associated with "Taps," today it can be played on a trumpet.
10. The inscription "Live Free or Die" is the state motto of:
a) California
b) New York
c) New Hampshire
d) Texas
Answer: c)
Explanation: The NH.Gov mentions, "The words "Live Free or Die," written by General John Stark, July 31, 1809, shall be the official motto of the state. It was the 1945 Legislature that gave New Hampshire its official motto and emblem, as World War II approached a successful end."
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