Saluting Our Veterans

Pictured: New York Tech student veterans and other community memebrs participating in the 2022 New York Veterans Day Parade.

As the nation prepares to celebrate Veterans Day on November 11, here is a brief history of how the holiday was established and celebrated in its early days. Then read on to find out how you can honor veterans during New York Tech’s Military Appreciation Week, beginning November 2.

In November 1919, President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed November 11 as Armistice Day to commemorate the end of World War I. While the war officially ended on June 28, 1919, when the Treaty of Versailles was signed, fighting actually stopped when an armistice went into effect in November 1918—on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the month.

Armistice Day became a legal holiday on May 13, 1938, and was primarily a day to honor World War I veterans.

The first celebration using the name Veterans Day was organized in 1947 by World War II veteran Raymond Weeks. The event took place on November 11 in Birmingham, Ala., and included a parade and other festivities. The name changed to Veterans Day at the suggestion of U.S. Representative of Kansas Edward Rees. Congress passed his proposed bill, which President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed in 1954. In November 1982, President Ronald Reagan presented Weeks with the Presidential Citizens Medal.

Beginning with those early celebrations, each year, the nation salutes all military veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces.

This Veterans Day, New York Institute of Technology will honor those who served by hosting a series of events.

Veteran Affairs Work-Study Program Info Session
Join Career Services for an information session that details the benefits of participating in the Veteran Affairs (VA) Work-Study Program. Explore available positions this semester.
November 2
1:00 – 1:30 p.m.
Student Activities Center, 2R

Register to attend

Donuts and Coffee with Student Veterans
November 6
9:00 a.m. – Noon
Edward Guiliano Global Center, main lobby
Grab coffee and a donut with your fellow New York Tech student veterans.

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Women Warriors Aroma Relaxation Group
November 7
12:45 – 2:00 p.m.
61 W. 61st St., room 723
Co-hosted by the Office of Military and Veteran Affairs and the Counseling and Wellness Center, the event is designed with a focus on military appreciation; it is open to all students, offering a special emphasis on the experiences of our women veterans.

Participants will get to know their fellow veteran classmates and immerse themselves in a soothing environment, exploring the therapeutic benefits of aromatherapy under the guidance of wellness professionals. Discover how essential oils can help manage stress, promote emotional well-being, and improve overall health.

This is a great opportunity to appreciate the contributions of the military community while learning new relaxation techniques. Don’t miss out on this chance to support our veteran community and enhance your own wellness journey. Food will be provided.

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Student Veteran Mixer
November 10
5:30 – 7:00 p.m.
All Stars Sports Bar & Grill, 327 W. 57th St.
Embrace the spirit of camaraderie at our Student Veteran Mixer. This event is an opportunity for all students, faculty, staff, and community members to come together and connect with our proud and diverse group of student veterans.

Held in a relaxed and friendly setting, the mixer encourages everyone to interact, share stories, and learn more about the experiences of those who’ve served our country. It’s a chance for student veterans to connect with peers and for other attendees to express their appreciation for their service.

Refreshments will be provided, ensuring a warm and inviting atmosphere for conversation and connection.

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Veterans Day Parade
November 11
8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
26 W. 61st St., first floor lounge
Students, faculty, staff, and community members are invited to honor our veterans’ service and bravery. The parade will be a lively celebration featuring military bands, color guards, and local veteran organizations. Participate in the march or show your support from the sidelines. Either way, your presence matters. Appreciation breakfast will be served before going to the parade start location.

Register to attend