As November 11th approaches, the city of Chicago is gearing up to honor and pay tribute to the brave men and women who have served in the United States military. Numerous events are set to take place in the Chicago area on Monday in honor of Veterans Day for 2024, including one of the largest commemoration ceremonies at Soldier Field.
Soldier Field, a historic Chicago stadium built in 1919, holds a special significance as it was renamed on November 11, 1925, at the request of Chicago Gold Star Mothers, to honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in combat. It stands as a symbol of remembrance and gratitude for the courageous individuals who have dedicated their lives to protecting our nation.
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson expressed his reverence for Veterans Day, stating, “Veterans Day is a revered time to honor the courage and sacrifice of all those who have dedicated their lives to protecting our nation. We pay tribute to veterans right here in Chicago and across the country for their resilience and resolve.”
The keynote address at the Soldier Field event will be delivered by The Honorable William J. Walker, the 38th Sergeant at Arms of the U.S. House of Representatives during the 117th Congress. General Walker previously served as the 23rd Commanding General of the District of Columbia National Guard (DCNG). His presence at the event will serve as a reminder of the bravery and dedication of our nation’s military members.
In addition to the commemoration ceremony, the event will also formally recognize Chicago as a Purple Heart City. This honor is bestowed upon cities across the country that pay tribute to the sacrifices of those who have been wounded or killed in combat. It is a testament to the city’s commitment to honoring and supporting our veterans.
The event, which includes musical performances, a ceremonial wreath-laying, and more, will begin at 11 a.m. and is open to the public. It is a time for the community to come together and show their appreciation for the sacrifices made by our veterans.
But why do we celebrate Veterans Day? The holiday, which falls on November 11th every year, dates back to 1919 when President Woodrow Wilson inaugurated the first celebration. It grew out of the commemoration of Armistice Day, which marked the end of fighting between the Allied countries and Germany on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month. It is a day to honor living veterans who have served in the military and to remember the sacrifices they have made for our country.
As Veterans Day is a federal holiday, mail will not be delivered and many banks, federal courts, and non-essential government offices will be closed. However, businesses like retail stores and grocery stores are expected to be open, though hours may vary. In Illinois, driver’s license facilities and other Secretary of State’s offices will be closed.
One question that often arises is whether schools are open or closed on Veterans Day. According to the Illinois State Board of Education, Veterans Day is not considered a legal school holiday. However, districts can choose to celebrate it, in which case it is considered a “Not in Attendance” day. This means that no students are engaged in learning as determined by the local school board. In the Chicago Public Schools 2024-25 calendar, Veterans Day is not observed as a holiday, so schools will remain open.
But there is one place that will be open and free to all visitors on Veterans Day – National Parks. The National Park Service invites all visitors to remember our veterans by visiting any National Park Service site for free on November 11th.
Many businesses also offer deals and free meals to honor those who have served the country. Starbucks is offering a free tall brewed coffee for veterans, military service members, and military spouses. Applebee’s is offering a free entrée from a special menu, while BIBIBOP Asian Grill is offering a free bowl with a military ID. Buffalo Wild Wings is giving away 10 free boneless wings and fries to all past and present service members with valid ID. Chili’s is offering a free meal for in-restaurant dining, and Dunkin’ is giving out free donuts to veterans and active-duty military members. And for those with a sweet tooth, participating Rainbow Cone locations will be offering a free classic sundae to all veterans and active military personnel.
As we honor our veterans on this special day, let us remember the
