United States Department of Defense

Veterans Day 2011 - Honoring our Nation's Veterans - 11.11.11

Sept. 26, 2011

For defending this nation with bravery and distinction, our veterans and current service members deserve our country's gratitude - not just on Veterans Day, but every day."

Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta
Nov. 9, 2011

DOD graphic by Marvin Gonzales

Obama Thanks Service Members,
Vets During Carrier Classic

WASHINGTON, Nov. 12, 2011 – The commander-in-chief caught a basketball game along with more than 8,000 of his closest friends aboard a U.S. aircraft carrier in San Diego. Story

Obama Urges Nation to Serve
Veterans Who Served

WASHINGTON, Nov. 12, 2011 – President Barack Obama taped his weekly radio address from the bridge of the USS Carl Vinson in San Diego, praising the men and women in uniform and underscoring the nation’s commitment to them and all veterans. Story

Obama Pays Tribute to America’s Vets

WASHINGTON, Nov. 11, 2011 – Once again the sound of “Taps” spilled over the hillside above the Tomb of the Unknowns as President Barack Obama placed a wreath honoring America’s veterans, here today. Story

Leaders Participate in Vets Day Events

WASHINGTON, Nov. 11, 2011 – Today’s Arlington National Ceremony, Va., Veterans Day event highlighted ceremonies around the country honoring those who served in the armed forces. Story

Secretary Calls on Nation to Honor Vets

WASHINGTON, Nov. 10, 2011 – Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta extended his thanks to troops and veterans in his 2011 Veterans Day message. Story

Obama, Panetta Praise Vets' Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 9, 2011 – Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta joined President Barack H. Obama in recognizing the contributions veterans have made throughout U.S. history and the sacrifices U.S. military members continue to make in defending the nation's freedoms. Story

Veterans Day Honors Service, Sacrifice

WASHINGTON, Nov. 9, 2011 – Until the 1960s, veterans groups used the red poppy as the symbol of Veterans Day. In Great Britain, it still is. Story

Obama Announces Job Initiatives

WASHINGTON, Nov. 7, 2011 - President Barack H. Obama announced executive orders to give tax credits to employers who hire post-9/11 veterans and wounded warriors, as well as enhanced career counseling and related services for veterans. Story

Veterans Continue to Inspire

WASHINGTON, Nov. 11, 2011 - Even after they have served the nation in uniform, some at tremendous pesonal cost, veterans continue to contribute to the nation and inspire others.