At the Maryland Department of Veterans Affairs, we like to say that every day is Veterans Day.  Our team of 117 personnel are committed daily to ensuring our veterans and eligible dependents have access to the services and benefits to which they are entitled. 

Whether we are assisting a veteran with a VA benefits application, caring for a veteran at Charlotte Hall Veterans Home, ensuring a veteran has the means to remain financially stable, or providing perpetual care at our veteran’s cemeteries, we are committed to the mission of honoring and serving Veterans.

The origins of Veterans Day date back to November 11, 1918, when the armistice ending World War I went into effect.  The following year, President Wilson recognized November 11 as the first official commemoration of Armistice Day and it became a day to honor and celebrate the “war to end all wars”.  Congress passed an act in 1938 that officially recognized the day but following World War II, and the largest mobilization of service members in our history, Congress replaced the word “Armistice” with “Veterans”.  Now, the federal holiday is a day to recognize, honor, and celebrate all veterans.

Veterans Day is one of two very special days for the men and women who have served in the United States Military.  The first, Memorial Day, is a day set aside to honor those who paid the ultimate sacrifice.  It is a day of great reflection and remembrance of the lives lost during times of war.  The second day, Veterans Day, is a day of great celebration for all who have served. 

This year, MDVA is collaborating with the National Association of Counties, Maryland Association of Counties, Maryland Municipal League and County Veterans Affairs Commissions on Operation Green Light. This November, we hope to see Maryland illuminated in green.  See more information below regarding Operation Green Light, including Governor Hogan's message.

On behalf of the entire Department, I would like to thank all of our veterans for their service and to their families, I say thank you for your support and sacrifice while your loved ones served.

May God bless our Nation, our great state of Maryland, and all who continue to serve!