When I first got the notification that President Trump wanted to change the name of Veterans Day, I thought it was a daily headline from The Duffel Blog. For those of you not in the know, The Duffel Blog is basically the military version of The Onion. Funny stuff.
I thought no way was he serious. You can’t just go around renaming EVERYTHING because you have the power to do so. Hell, before you know it, we’ll be living in “Trumperica”.
Alas, he is serious, and it’s a move that has ignited both fervent support and vehement opposition. Just yesterday, President Donald J. Trump announced plans to rename Veterans Day to “Victory Day for World War I.” This declaration, made via his Truth Social platform, also includes rebranding May 8 as “Victory Day for World War II,” asserting that the United States played the paramount role in securing victories in both global conflicts.
“We won both Wars; nobody was close to us in terms of strength, bravery, or military brilliance,” Trump proclaimed, emphasizing a desire to celebrate American military achievements more robustly.
As I recall, we also kicked some British ass during our Revolutionary War. Where is that federal holiday? Stay tuned.
A Historical Rewriting or Patriotic Rebranding?
It’s a bit of a full circle, actually. Veterans Day, observed annually on November 11, originated as Armistice Day, commemorating the end of World War I. In 1954, it was renamed to honor all American veterans, regardless of the war in which they served.
Critics argue that Trump‘s proposal narrows the holiday’s scope, potentially marginalizing veterans of conflicts beyond the World Wars. “Renaming Veterans Day would exclude the vast majority of the country’s 15.8 million veterans who served in conflicts beyond the world wars,” noted a report.
Furthermore, historians and international leaders have expressed concern over the historical accuracy of Trump’s claims. General Lord Dannatt, former chief of the British General Staff, remarked, “Talk about rewriting history,” highlighting that the U.S. joined World War II after the attack on Pearl Harbor.
Yes, Lord Dannatt, we did enter World War II after the attack on Pearl Harbor. We also ended that mother with a blast (two actually) as I recall. So there’s that.
Veterans’ Voices: A Mixed Chorus
The veteran community’s response has been far from monolithic. Some see the renaming as a fitting tribute to American military prowess, while others view it as a politicization of a solemn day.
“The proposal diminishes the holiday’s purpose of honoring all veterans across all conflicts,” stated a former Army officer.
Black veterans, in particular, have voiced concerns. “This change overlooks the contributions of veterans from other conflicts and eras,” emphasized a community leader. I understand the statement, but fail to see what that has to do with any racial background.
Personally, it doesn’t bother me in the least, as long as I can keep getting my 10% discount at Lowe’s. We have Memorial Day to remember those who have given all in the service of this great nation. Please don’t mess with that.
This may be an unpopular statement, but a day to remember all veterans is a bit of overkill. Kind of like a store clerk’s perfunctory “Thank you for your service” after buying a gallon of paint while using your military discount. I tell people I was just doing my job. Don’t get me wrong, it was an honor to serve and I appreciate the sentiment when it is real….yeah, I know it can be kind of a gray area.
Legal Hurdles and Political Calculations
Renaming a federal holiday is no small feat. Such a change would require Congressional approval, a process fraught with political implications. While the White House has indicated that it will not pursue the renaming, it may issue an “additional proclamation,” though details remain vague.
The proposal also arrives amidst broader discussions about the Trump administration’s approach to veterans’ affairs, including staffing changes within the Department of Veterans Affairs and debates over the implementation of Project 2025 (which the government vehemently denies).
A Parade of Patriotism or Political Posturing?
Coinciding with the renaming proposal, plans are underway for a massive military parade in Washington, D.C., on June 14, marking the Army’s 250th anniversary and Trump’s 79th birthday. The event is expected to feature over 6,600 soldiers, 150 vehicles, and 50 helicopters.
While supporters view the parade as a celebration of military strength, critics argue it reflects a penchant for spectacle over substance.
Final Thoughts: Honoring Service Amidst Controversy
As the nation takes to social media over this proposed rebranding of Veterans Day, the core question remains: How best to honor those who have served? While recognizing victories is essential, so too is acknowledging the experiences and sacrifices of all veterans and their loved ones. We never seem to consider enough the sacrifices of the families of military members.
In the words of a seasoned Marine Corps veteran, “True honor lies not in names or parades, but in the unwavering support and respect we show our veterans every day.”
Well said.