What's Closed on Veterans Day 'Monday,' Plus Free Items to Veterans

In the United States, Veterans Day is observed on Nov. 11. However, when the legal public holiday for Veterans Day occurs on a Sunday—like it did yesterday—then the following Monday is designated for holiday leave.

Thus, today is considered to be a federal holiday, which means Eureka City Hall and Wildwood City Hall will be closed. Banks and municipal courts will be closed, and there will be no postal service.

Also note the following, local entities will offer free items to veterans on Monday only:

• Arby’s is offering a free roast beef sandwich during Monday.
• Denny's Restaurant is offering free, all-you-can-eat pancakes from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Monday for all active, retirees, and veterans with a valid military ID or proof of military service.
• Applebee's Neighborhood Bar and Grill provided a free meal to veterans and active service members yesterday (Sunday).

Two important notes for Veterans Day-related deals at any stores:

• Most companies require some form of military ID. These include: a Military ID Card (active/reserve/retired), Current Leave and Earnings Statement (LES), Drivers License with Veterans Designation, a photograph in uniform, you in uniform (if your service permits), Veterans Organization Card (e.g., American Legion and VFW), DD214, discharge paperwork, or other form of identification. Other restaurants and companies may go by the honor system.
• Always call ahead to verify locations, times and participation. 

Background of the Holiday:

Veterans Day originated as “Armistice Day” on Nov. 11, 1919, the first anniversary of the end of World War I. Congress passed a resolution in 1926 for an annual observance, and Nov. 11 became a national holiday beginning in 1938. President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed legislation in 1954 to change the name to Veterans Day as a way to honor those who served in all American wars.