Memorial Day and Veterans Day are two distinct U.S. holidays with different purposes and dates.
- Memorial Day: A solemn day of remembrance for those who died in military service. It is observed on the last Monday of May as part of a long weekend that unofficially marks the start of summer. It honors fallen service members and is often associated with visiting cemeteries, wreath-laying, and moments of reflection.
- Veterans Day: A day to thank and honor all military veterans who have served in the U.S. armed forces, living or deceased. It is observed on November 11 each year and is a celebration of all who have worn a military uniform, with ceremonies and expressions of gratitude.
Key distinctions:
- Who is honored: Memorial Day honors those who died in service; Veterans Day honors all who served.
- Timing: Memorial Day is the last Monday in May; Veterans Day is fixed on November 11.
- Tone: Memorial Day is largely commemorative and reflective; Veterans Day has a celebratory, gratitude-oriented tone for living veterans and all who served.
If you’d like, I can provide a quick one-page comparison or a short Q&A you can share with others.
