Veterans Day is a great time for team activities to honor our veterans and grow as a team.
The end of World War I is said to have been the day the Treaty of Versailles was signed in June 1919. However, all fighting ceased on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918—Armistice Day—and this is the day that people worldwide believed was the true day the War to End All Wars ended.
Throughout the 1920s and 1930s, November 11th was the day that people honored the veterans of World War I, and in 1938, Armistice Day became a Federal Holiday. In 1954, President Eisenhower issued the Proclamation, making November 11th the day to honor all veterans of all wars, changing the name from Armistice Day to Veterans Day.
It's a day to honor those who have fought for our ongoing freedom, recognizing their sacrifices in securing our future. It's also a time to promote peace with all people and nations, reflecting on the importance of unity. Above all, it's a moment to express our deep appreciation for veterans and all they have done for us.
Host a brown bag session and have a Veterans Day Trivia Contest. Have your team discuss what Veterans Day means to them. Encourage them to share stories of family members who have served. What is the impact of these people in their lives? What stood out to them about the discussion?
Contact your local Veterans Affairs Office and see if any local veterans might come to your office and speak with your team about their experiences in the military and after.
Have your team gather items for a care package for veterans in need or for a current military member. Have your team write thank you cards to a veteran. Then, contact your local VA office and see if you and your team can deliver them to the veterans.
We picked experiences to help your team support veterans through cards and gifts. We also added meditative team activities to give your team space to reflect on peace and freedom and express their gratitude.