Veterans Day 2016: When is it, who gets time off work and who gets free meals?

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When did it start?
Veteran’s Day, the state and federal holiday often confused with Memorial Day, dates back to World War I and originally known as Armistice Day. Just before the war ended there was a ceasefire between the Allied forces and Germany before the 11th hour of the 11th month.Congress eventually passed a law creating the holiday in 1926 and it became a national holiday in 1938. Years later, in 1954, President Eisenhower changed the name to Veterans Day.

Who is off?
The US Postal Service along with all state and federal offices will be closed on Friday. Most school will also be closed for the holiday.

The annual Veteran’s Day parade is expected to draw 500,000 attendees to 5th Avenue in Manhattan on Friday as many New Yorkers mourn the results of the presidential election, more than 79 percent of residents voted for Hillary Clinton.

Across the country, restaurants and fast food chains will offer free meals to veterans.

Who has free meals?
Outback Steakhouse is offering free Bloomin’ Onions and drinks. Military members can receive 15 percent off their checks from November 12 to December 31.
Bob Evans is offering free meals from a “special” menu on Veterans Day.
IHOP is giving vets red, white, and blue pancakes beginning at 7am and ending at 7pm.
Ruby Tuesday is cutting a few corners and offering free appetizer up to $10 a person.
Little Caesars has a fresh, unique and free Hot-N-Ready lunch combo from 11am to 2pm.
Applebee's has a free meal from their “special” menu and vets receive a $5 coupon that can be redeemed between November 12 and 27.

Baskin-Robbins will donate 11 cents to United Service Organizations for every ice cream scoop sold in the US.
Buffalo Wild Wings is giving away a free, small-sized order of traditional or boneless wings along with a side of fries.
Chipotle will offer buy one get one free burrito, bowl or salad from 3pm. to close.
Chili's is giving away free meals from a “special” menu.
Olive Garden is offering vets and active service members one free entree.
Hooters is offering vets one free entree.