President Bush has paid tribute to America's military veterans by laying a wreath at the U.S. Tomb of the Unknowns during a ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery outside Washington.
The president joined leaders of veterans groups and other officials at the national cemetery Saturday in observance of the Veterans Day holiday.
The holiday honors the men and women who have served in the U.S. military. Saturday's ceremony began on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month to commemorate the exact time that the armistice ending World War One took effect in 1918.
In his remarks, Mr. Bush said this day pays tribute to the 24 million Americans, living and dead, who have strengthened America with their example of service and sacrifice.
Americans first celebrated Veterans Day as Armistice Day in 1919. The holiday was renamed Veterans Day in 1954 when the observance was broadened to include all who have served in the armed forces.