Military Observances

Find out the different military observances and the differences between each day.

Armed Forces Day. Observed the third Saturday in May, this day is for all who currently serve and all who have served, both active and former, in the reserves, National Guard or on active duty, including the Coast Guard.  It replaced separate days that honored various branches of the military (Army, Air Force and Navy).

Veterans Day. Celebrated annually on November 11, this day of observance is for all living and deceased who have served in the military.

Memorial Day. Celebrated annually on the last Monday in May, this day of observance is for all who died while serving

National Guard Birthday Celebrated December 13, honors all citizen-soldiers who have civilian jobs but are available to provide support and protection for the states’ civilians. They may be called for military operations at a national level.

Within this Collection

Lander University World War I Symposium
Episode 1

Video

In March 2019, Lander University hosted a World War I Symposium in honor of the 100th anniversary of the Great War. Bringing together accomplished historians and local citizens the symposium set out...
How Did World War I Start?
Episode 2

Video

Dr. M. Ryan Floyd discusses the events leading up to the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand, which signaled the beginning of World War I.
H.L. Hunley Museum | Let's Go!

Video

The H.L. Hunley submarine made history during the American Civil War when she became the first submarine to sink an enemy ship in combat. In February 1864, the Hunley, under command of Lieutenant...
Honor a Vet on Veteran's Day
Honor a Vet on Veteran's Day

Lesson

This lesson will explain the beginnings of Veteran's Day as an annual celebration in the United States, as well as familiarizing students with the 5 main branches of the Armed Services. Excellent...

D-Day: 40 Years Ago, Part 3 (1984)
Episode 3

Video

Part 3 of the D-Day: 40 Years Ago special of Carolina Journal. Veterans from both Axis and Allied powers gather to remember their experiences on D-Day, and to honor the fallen.