FILE - A larger American flag is raised among flag-covered graves on Veterans Day in the veterans' section of Evergreen-Washelli cemetery, on Nov. 11, 2014, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Elaine Thompson)

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Veterans Day holiday began more than a century ago, albeit under a different name, as a celebration of the end of World War I. Over time its name and purpose evolved into a day of recognition for U.S. veterans of all wars as well as those currently serving in uniform.

It’s also day off for U.S. postal workers and federal government employees, though many federal employees are not reporting to work right now during the longest government shutdown in U.S. history.

Many Veterans Day celebrations have been cancelled due to the government shutdown.

Veterans Day began as Armist

See Full Page