Context:

Donald Trump proposes to rename Veterans Day as Victory Day for World War I, despite Veterans Day already being a federal holiday. Trump is also advocating for a costly military parade on June 14, coinciding with the US Army's 250th birthday and his own birthday, which is also Flag Day. He emphasizes celebrating military might, likening the proposed Victory Day to Russia's Victory Day, an idea that may not sit well with those wary of aligning US celebrations with Russian traditions. The proposal to prioritize victory celebrations over commemorating veterans marks a shift from the original intent of Armistice Day, which was to honor the heroism and sacrifice of those who served. Trump's ideas contrast with Dwight Eisenhower's efforts to establish Veterans Day and his caution against the military-industrial complex, raising concerns about the evolution of holiday observances in the US.

Dive Deeper:

• Trump's suggestion to rename Veterans Day to Victory Day for World War I ignores the existing status of Veterans Day as a federal holiday and the historical significance of commemorating veterans' sacrifices.

• A proposed military parade on June 14, which is both Trump's birthday and the US Army's 250th birthday, could cost tens of millions of dollars, symbolizing a focus on military prowess over traditional observances.

• Trump's emphasis on celebrating military victories, including a Victory Day reminiscent of Russia's, raises concerns about the implications of aligning US holidays with those of other nations, particularly Russia.

• The proposal to prioritize victory celebrations over veterans commemorates a notable shift from Armistice Day's original intent, which was to honor veterans' heroism and promote peace and justice.

• Trump's ideas stand in contrast to Dwight Eisenhower's proclamation of Veterans Day and his historical warning against the military-industrial complex, highlighting concerns about the changing nature of American holiday observances.

• The rhetorical shift from honoring veterans to celebrating military victories could require congressional action to implement, reflecting the ongoing debate over the appropriate way to honor military service in the US.

• The historical context of Veterans Day, rooted in Woodrow Wilson's post-World War I vision of peace, underscores the potential impact of redefining national holidays in terms of military success rather than solemn remembrance.