Monticello school children celebrating peace, November 11, 1918. The armistice took effect the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month of 1918. This date was known as Armistice Day until June 1, 1954 when President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed into law an act proclaiming November 11 as Veterans Day. This is a day to honor all who have served their country, whereas Memorial Day is a day to honor and mourn the military personnel who have died while serving in the United States Armed Forces. Visit monticellohistoricalsociety.org for more information.