Bells resound within a grateful nation as we reflect on the service of U.S. military Veterans. More broadly, the day recognizes the contributions of our Armed Forces to defending and preserving freedom the world over. Citizen groups, along with active duty members of the U.S. Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Space Force, and Coast Guard, hold special commemoration events at sites across America.
When should bells ring on Veterans Day?
Aligning with the anniversary of the end of World War I with the signing of the armistice at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918, bells are traditionally tolled 11 times at 11:00am on November 11.
Alternatively, a peal, quarter peal, or general ringing may begin at 11:00am local time. Carillons, chimes of suitable range, and handbell ringers may play a recital of pieces appropriate to the occasion.
The bell ringing schedule may be adjusted to better align with local community observances, which may be marked at differing times – for instance, on the preceding Sunday.
In accordance with the Veterans Day Moment of Silence Act (Public Law 114-240), signed into law in 2016, bell towers are asked to fall silent at 2:11pm Eastern and observe a two-minute national moment of silence to honor service members.
Image: U.S. Marine Corps Capt. John T. Miller, left, assistant operations officer, and Cpl. Christopher L. Canup, legal clerk, Headquarters and Support Battalion, Marine Corps Installations East, Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, ring a bell during the Bells of Peace ceremony marking the 100th Anniversary of the end of World War I at John A. Lejeune Hall on MCB Camp Lejeune, N.C., on Nov. 11, 2018. Courtesy: Lance Cpl. Isaiah Gomez, U.S. Marine Corps.*
*The appearance of U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) visual information does not imply or constitute DoD endorsement.
