Veteran's Day Off (Thoughts)?

Question

I have made this observation year after year and would like to get others thoughts on it.

I have noticed that thousands of government (state and federal) get Veteran’s Day off as a paid holiday, most of which have never served one day in the military in their lives. But then I know of several veterans (including myself) who have to work on Veteran's Day. Doesn't this seem kind of backward?

I realize that companies cannot be forced to give anyone a day off, especially paid at that (I don't want them to have to). But it is a bit insulting to thousands of us veterans who did serve to watch people who work for government get Veteran’s day off (to pay their respect to us vets) when veterans don't even get it off. And the worst part is the taxpayers (veterans included) are paying these people to take the day off. Personally speaking as a veteran, I would rather see these employees go to work on Veteran’s day to pay their respect to us, than to stay at home and have me pay their salary to do it, because the way it is now I consider it a disrespect to us veterans.

Just my thoughts. Feel free to agree or disagree with me as you like. Thanks.

Answer 1

Not all government workers get the day off. I have to work today - I am at lunch - and I am a teacher. Many police officers do not have the day off either. I have never had Veteran's Day off. At one time, most gov workers were vets and that is why they have the day off. However, this has changed with time. It would be nice for those who have an honorable discharge, to have the day off but that will never happen. They might as well designate Vets day on the first or second Saturday of November that way, most vets would actually be able to attend ceremonies that honor their service.

Answer 2

Well let's look at some other federal holidays with the same concept: A federal employee who is a KKK member, Nazi or closet racist that pays respect to and gets paid on Martin Luther King day. A federal employee who is a Native American/Puerto Rican/African who's ancestors may have been raped, enslaved or murdered by Christopher Columbus and his crew; paid to respect and observe such a great day in their lineage. What about Christmas the celebration of the birth of a jew, Jesus Christ?, paid to a federal employee who is an atheist, muslim or buddhist? Should they pay respects or get the day off? What about the millions of taxpayers that don't believe in any of this federal holiday nonsense?



I'd say it's all symbolic so that the government and its people can reflect on the impact the dates had on our nation, not in the context to pay and compensate those who have no bearing or inclination to our ways and beliefs.

Answer 3

As a nonveteran who did get the day off, I do agree with you. None the less, Happy Veterans Day and I do appreciate your service!