Trump Declares Veterans Day “World War I Victory Day”
WASHINGTON – On Tuesday, President Trump announced that Veterans Day will also be recognized as “World War I Victory Day,” highlighting the U.S. contribution to Germany’s surrender on November 11, 1918.
“Today isn’t just Veterans Day; it marks what I wish to emphasize—’Victory Day of World War I,'” he stated during a speech at Arlington National Cemetery.
Trump noted that he had seen France celebrate “Victory Day,” while the U.S. had not done the same. “Other countries were celebrating; we won that war,” he remarked.
Earlier, Trump had referenced the idea in a May post on Truth Social, proposing May 8 as “Victory Day” for World War II. The formal declaration for the new Veterans Day designation was released Monday.
“From now on, I’ll call it ‘Victory Day’ for both World Wars. Perhaps others will acknowledge more conflicts later since we’ve achieved victory in several wars,” he added.
He reflected on observing other nations like Britain and Russia celebrating their own “Victory Day,” expressing that the U.S. should do the same. “In our country, nobody even mentioned it,” he noted.
Trump made the announcement following a wreath-laying at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, despite cold weather caused by strong winds. He dressed in a scarf and gloves for the event, along with Vice President J.D. Vance and Veterans Affairs Secretary Doug Collins.
“Our heroes have faced unimaginable challenges to fulfill the American Dream, and that dream is set to come back even stronger,” Trump asserted.
He also commended Congress for nearing an agreement to resolve the ongoing 42-day government shutdown, which had caused disruptions in air travel, unpaid federal workers, and delays in food stamp payments.
“We’re reopening our country. It should never have been shut down,” he stated, addressing a range of topics, including visits to wounded soldiers at Walter Reed Army Hospital.
This particular trip was the only event on Trump’s agenda for the day. He has expressed intent for a swift reopening once enough Senate Democrats agree to pass a temporary funding bill extending until January 30.
The Arlington National Cemetery, where the event took place, is the final resting place for around 400,000 individuals and is situated by the Potomac River. This vast area was once the estate of Confederate General Robert E. Lee. The site is also near the proposed location for a new Arc de Triomphe, which Trump is considering to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence next year.
