Maine Memory Network

Steam Yacht, Boothbay Harbor, ca. 1917

Contributed by: Stanley Museum Date: circa 1917 Location: Boothbay Harbor Media: Photo negative

U.S. Naval activity in Casco Bay, Portland, 1944

Contributed by: Maine Historical Society Date: 1944 Location: Portland Media: Film negative

Great War and Armistice Day

In 1954, November 11 became known as Veterans Day, a time to honor American veterans of all wars. The holiday originated, however, as a way to memorialize the end of World War I, November 11, 1918, and to "perpetuate peace through good will and mutual understanding between nations." Mainers were involved in World War I as soldiers, nurses, and workers on the homefront aiding the military effort.