The holiday dates to Nov. 11, 1918, when the truce ending World War I was signed on the 11th day of the 11th month at the 11th hour. President Woodrow Wilson first proclaimed it Armistice Day, and President Dwight Eisenhower renamed it Veterans Day in 1954.
It is a federal holiday, so most banks and post offices will close. Grocery stores, retailers and restaurants stay open.
Applebee's gives veterans and active duty a free dine-in entree from its Veterans Day menu, though drinks and tip are not included. Bar Louie serves a free burger, excluding the Big Louie, dine-in only. At Bonefish Grill, veterans get a free Bang Bang Shrimp entree and a nonalcoholic drink. Circle K gives veterans a free medium hot or iced coffee, and Aroma Joe's offers a free beverage up to 24 oz.
Bring your military ID, because that is the ticket in. Many deals are dine-in only, and details and participation can vary by location, so call ahead before you drive. Bonefish Grill's deal also covers veterans' families.
Aspen Creek Grill's free $15 meal voucher goes out Wednesday from 11 a.m. To 6 p.m., and it stays good through Christmas Eve.