29 March

NATIONAL VIETNAM WAR VETERANS DAY  

 

National Vietnam War Veterans Day on March 29 honors the men and women who served and sacrificed during the longest conflict in United States history.

Vietnam War Veterans Day

On March 29, 1973, combat and combat support units withdrew from South Vietnam. Generations later, Veterans of this time period are gaining the respect that was not so freely given upon their return. Involving five U.S. presidents, crossing nearly two decades and 500,000 U.S.military personnel, it left an indelible mark on the American psyche.

Returning veterans did not always receive respectful welcomes upon their arrival on American soil. Over 58,000 killed, never to return. The observance recognizes the military service of these men and women who answered the call to serve their country when she needed them. They didn't make the decision to go to war.

Throughout National Vietnam War Veterans Day, we recognize the service and duty rendered by all servicemen and women of this era.

How to Observe Vietnam War Veterans Day

• Organizations across the country host events honoring National Vietnam War Veterans Day. These events include memorials, speeches, and luncheons honoring Vietnam veterans and their families.
• Invite a veteran you know to join you or help organize an event. 
• Thank a Vietnam Veteran.
• Buy them a drink or lunch.
• Visit a local memorial. Volunteer to help organize events. 
• Support a veteran's organization in your community. Volunteer and offer your skills.
• Watch a Vietnam War documentary. Some films we found are The Vietnam War: A Film by Ken Burns and Lynn Novick or Last Days in Vietnam directed by Rory Kennedy or Vietnam Nurses by Timeline.
• Read about the Vietnam War. We recommend: Vietnam - A History by Stanley Karnow or They Marched into Sunlight: War and Peace, Vietnam and America, October 1967 by David Maraniss or The Quiet American by Graham Green and Robert Stone.

National Vietnam War Veterans Day History

U.S. Sens. Pat Toomey, R-Pa., and Joe Donnelly, D-Ind., introduced legislation in 2017 to honor Vietnam Veterans with a day. They chose the anniversary of the withdrawal of military units from South Vietnam. President Donald Trump signed the National Vietnam War Veterans Day Act on March 28, 2017, calling for U.S. flags to be flown on March 29 for those who served.

Vietnam War Veterans FAQ

Q. Does every U.S. state have a Vietnam Veterans' memorial?
A. No. Currently, 13 states have war memorials specific to Vietnam veterans. However, war memorials in every state honor all veterans regardless of when they served.

Q. How many Medals of Honor were awarded to Vietnam Veterans?
A. The U.S. Congress named 240 Medal of Honor recipients from the Vietnam War.

 Also 

Lemon Chiffon Cake Day

Mom 7 Pop Business Owners Day

Nevada Day

Day of Silence

Pita Day

 Today's Thought

You miss 100% of the shots you don't take. ~ Wayne Gretzky

 

 22 Days until Easter

 

28 March

NATIONAL SOMETHING ON A STICK DAY 

 

Observed each year on March 28th, National Something on a Stick Day is a food holiday that lets you use your creative talents. Once you get started, the possibilities are endless. Foods that come on a stick are fun and easy to eat.

Something On A Stick Day

There isn't much that can't be put on a stick when talking about food. Soup might be that one exception, though if it were flavorful frozen, we might make an exception.

From cool summer treats like the Popsicle to frozen food staples like the corn dog, food on a stick is one of the world's great inventions. Fresh fruit kabobs and skewers of grilled veggies and meat are both summer favorites.

Street fairs and food trucks have created a variety of recipes made to go on a stick that takes us from breakfast to after-party hunger with flavor combinations that sometimes make us wonder why we haven't tried that before!  Whether it is fresh and healthy or breaded and deep-fried, menu choices are broad and plentiful for National Something on a Stick Day.

How to Observe Something On A Stick Day

• Get inventive and create your own combination. How about grilled pear on a stick? Or perhaps meat and cheese squares or brownie and marshmallows bites? Have a creative breakfast, lunch or dinner and have fun with the day!!
• Master eating with chopsticks.
• Serve each meal on a stick. French toast for breakfast? Serve it cut up on toothpicks. Salad for lunch? Slide all the fixings on a skewer. The same goes for supper. Be creative and involve the whole family in the planning. Just don't serve soup.
• Challenge the family to create or name as many foods on a stick as possible. 
• Have you ever put family photos on a stick or created something similar to a Flat Stanley?
• Take a group photo using a selfie stick. That's right, put your phone on a stick. 
• Create a photo booth. Use fun props, many of which are on a stick.

National Something On A Stick Day History

Our research was unable to find the origin and the creator of National Something On A Stick Day.

Something on a Stick FAQ

Q. Who can celebrate this day?
A. Anyone can celebrate National Something on a Stick Day. All you need is a skewer or chopsticks and your favorite foods. Some foods already come on a stick! Corn dogs and popsicles come to mind.

Q. Does this day require cooking?
A. No. Or at least it doesn't have to. Make fruit kabobs or have an ice cream bar. Slice up some pb&j sandwiches and put them on a skewer.

 Also

Black Forest Cake Day

Triglycerides Day

Weed Appreciation Day 

Today's Thought

Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it.  ~ William Arthur Ward

 

 23 Days until Easter

27 March

NATIONAL JOE DAY  

National Joe Day on March 27th encourages everyone to enjoy a cup of joe with all your friends named Joe, Jo, Joey, Joseph, and Josephine. While you're at it, don't forget Joette, Jody, Johanna, Jodie, or any other variant of the name Joe. If you didn't know it, you could create quite a few nicknames from this one name. 

National Joe Day

According to the Social Security Administration, Joseph ranked No. 6 from 1893 to 1899 behind John, William, James, George, and Charles. In 1910, it moved to No. 5. From 1911 to 2005, it ranked No. 12 or lower. Famous Joes, Jos, and Jo Anns, populate the world. They fill many roles, too. So their name does not define them. Just check out the variety of hats they wear!

Famous Joes:

• American football player and coach - Joe Montana 
• Politician - Jo Ann Emerson
• Comedian, musician, and actor - Joe Pesci 
• Politician and lawyer - Joe Biden 
• Musician, singer, dancer -Josephine Baker
• Theatrical producer, entrepreneur, film producer - Joseph Gordon
• American football player - Joe Namath 
• Opera singer - Dame Josephine Barstow
• Formula one endurance driver - Jo Gartner
• Politician, soldier - Joseph Stalin 
• Songwriter, musician, singer - Joey Ramone 
• Journalist - Jo Coburn
• Baseball player - Shoeless Joe Jackson
• Olympic medalist, swimmer - Josephine McKim
• American football player - Joe Green
• Actress - Jodie Foster
• Musician - Joe Jonas
• Businesswoman, politician - Jo Ann Davis
• Baseball player, actor - Joe DiMaggio
• Author - Josephine Cox
• Musician - Joe Cocker
• Boxer - Joe Frazier
• Athlete, sprinter - Joanne Cuddihy
• Baseball player - Joe Mauer
• Journalist, author - Josephine Lawrence
• Press Secretary - Jody Powell
• Musician - Joe Walsh

HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL JOE DAY

• Honor all people with the name "Joe."
• For the day, change your name to a name of your choice.
• Everyone changes their name to a version of "Joe" or "Jo" of your choice.
• Read the science fiction novella Call Me Joe by Poul Anderson.
• Another way to celebrate the day is by telling stories about friends and family named Joe.

NATIONAL JOE DAY HISTORY

National Day Calendar continues to research the origins of this day. In the meantime, you can call us Joe, and we'll call you Joe, too. It's a great way to create confusion while avoiding it. 

Joe FAQ

Q. What is "Joe" short for?
A. Well, "Joe" or "Jo" can be short for Joseph, Josephine, Jo-Ellen, Josy, Jonah, Josiah, Johannes, and Joel, just to name a few.

Q. Why is coffee called Joe?
A. No one is really sure, but there are several theories. The first one came about in a way similar to the 80s-era economic policy that came to be known as Reaganomics, and the word gerrymander came from Massachusetts governor Elbridge Gerry. In 1914, Joseph Daniels was appointed Secretary of the Navy by President Woodrow Wilson. Secretary Joe prohibited the use of alcohol aboard ship, and the strongest brew the sailors could drink became coffee. However, since it didn't become common usage for another decade and a half, linguists point to other reasons for calling coffee "joe." For example, the island of Java was known for planting coffee. We return to the Navy for further explanation. When combining coffee and chocolate (mocha), the sailors would call the combination a jamoke and then later shortened it to joe.

Also

 

International Medical Science Liaison Day

 

Scribble Day

 

Spanish Paella Day 

 

Today's Thought

 

Do I really need to think more, or is it simply a matter of doing the work?

 

 

 24 Days until Easter

 

 

26 March

NATIONAL LITTLE RED WAGON DAY 

On the last Wednesday in March, National Little Red Wagon Day celebrates the memories in the making and the ones already made. One iconic toy wields the power of imagination for adults and children alike as it brings us together to explore, laugh and play. 

Little Red Wagon Day

For nearly 100 years, Radio Flyer has been bringing smiles to kids of all ages and creating warm memories that last a lifetime. As a brand, Radio Flyer has always supported unstructured outdoor play and its positive impact on children. With their 100th anniversary on the horizon, Radio Flyer would like to establish a day that celebrates kids’ imaginations and the vehicles that help them explore it - their wagons.

This iconic toy is one of the most enduring toys of all time. For generations, children have led little red wagons down Independence Day parade routes, carried out infinite imaginary missions and voyages of childhood fantasy. It is not unusual for a little red wagon to be handed down from one generation to the next, treasured like a family heirloom. The adventures are enjoyed by all, regardless of age.

How to Observe Little Red Wagon Day

As the weather gets warmer and spring officially begins, use the day to encourage kids to get outside, get active and go wherever their imaginations take them.

National Little Red Wagon Day History

Radio Flyer founded National Little Red Wagon Day in honor of its 100th anniversary. The Registrar of National Day Calendar® declared the day in 2016.

Little Red Wagon FAQ

Q. Who can celebrate this day?
A. Anyone with a little red wagon or with stories to tell about one can celebrate National Little Red Wagon Day.

Q. Is this a holiday for children?
A. Yes. This holiday is perfect for children. Load up the little red wagon and head to the park.

 

Also

Epilepsy Awareness Day ~ Purple Day

Nougat Day

Spinach Day

Manatee Appreciation Day

 

Today's Thought

Everything you want is on the other side of fear.

 

 25 Days until Easter

 

 

 

 

25 March

NATIONAL MEDAL OF HONOR DAY  

National Medal of Honor Day on March 25th recognizes all Medal of Honor recipients. The Medal of Honor is the highest military award for valor in the United States and was created in 1861. 

Medal Of Honor Day

On March 25, 1863, Secretary of War, Edwin Stanton presented the first Medals of Honor (Army) to six members of  “Andrews Raiders” for their volunteering and participation during an American Civil War raid in April of 1862.

The Medal of Honor is awarded only to US military personnel by the President of the United States in the name of Congress for personal acts of valor above and beyond the call of duty.

There are three versions of the Medal of Honor; one for the Army, one for the Navy, and one for the Air Force; Personnel of the Marine Corps and the Coast Guard receive the Navy version.

Since its creation, 3,468 Medals of Honor have been awarded to the country’s soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines, and coastguardsmen.

How to Observe Medal Of Honor Day

• Some federal, state, local, and military organizations may hold events recognizing Medal of Honor recipients. These events may be public or private.
• Volunteering for your local veteran organization
• Donate to a veteran service organization
• Adopt a Medal of Honor gravesite
• Fly the U.S. flag at your home or business
• Visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
• Visit local memorial sites

National Medal Of Honor Day History

In 1990, the United States Congress designated March 25th of each year as National Medal of Honor Day.

Medal of Honor FAQ

Q. Have any women received the Medal of Honor?
A. Yes. Following the American Civil War, President Andrew Johnson presented Dr. Mary Edwards Walker with the Medal of Honor for her volunteer work with the Union Army, often going behind enemy lines to care for civilians.

Q. Has any U.S. president received the Medal of Honor?
A. Yes, but only one. Theodore Roosevelt received the honor for his services during the Spanish American War. It was awarded to Roosevelt posthumously by President Bill Clinton in 2001.

Q. Are the Congressional Medal of Honor and the Medal of Honor the same thing?
A. Yes, but Medal of Honor is the correct term.

Also

Lobster Newburg Day

Tolkien Reading Day 

American Diabetes Association Alert Day

 

Today's Thought

Experience is simply the name we give our mistakes. ~ Oscar Wilde

 

 26 Days until Easter

 

 

24 March

NATIONAL COCKTAIL DAY  

 

Celebrate all your favorite cocktails on March 24th. National Cocktail Day ushers in all the best ways to savor a beverage at the end of a long workday. Whether you like a fruity drink, blended or on the rocks, this day is for you. Mocktail, virgin, or the real thing, celebrate the lemon, lime, bitters, liquors, and liqueurs that make your favorite beverages the best in your bartender book.

National Cocktail Day

It's probably no surprise that nearly every month on the calendar celebrates a cocktail. The only exception is April, and since it's National Alcohol Awareness Month, it makes sense to take that month off. 

A cocktail contains a spirit or a mix of spirits. While a beer is not considered a cocktail, there are beer cocktails where beer is added to a distilled ingredient. The same applies to wine.

The other months pay homage to histories, ingredients, and the makers of some legendary cocktails. January begins the year dedicating a day to the Bloody Mary, and there's also a day for her Canadian counterpart, the Bloody Caesar, in May. January also devotes an entire week to Mocktails. In February, you can celebrate the Margarita and Kahlua. March brings us International Whisk(e)y Day, among others. Skipping back to May, you can imbibe in both Palomas and Mimosas for your celebrations.

June & July

June and July compete for the most cocktail-related days. From Martinis and Bourbon in June to Pina Coladas and Daiquiris in July, the two months cover the spectrum. There are even a few bottles of wine in between. Not only do they celebrate specific cocktails but they also celebrate the places we enjoy them. National Dive Bar Day in July invites us to celebrate the places that serve our favorite cocktails, even if it's an ice-cold beer.

The rest of the year covers all our chilled and heated cocktails. By December, we readily reminisce National Repeal Day and the Bartenders who keep that era and the skills alive.

We have only skimmed the surface of the cocktails celebrated on the calendar, so National Cocktail Day allows you to celebrate whichever one you like!

How to Observe National Cocktail Day

• Create your favorite cocktail to celebrate.
• Explore cocktail ingredients or read a bartender's manual.
• Learn the finer elements of mixing cocktails and expand your home bar.
• Visit a speakeasy or take a tour of your favorite distillery.
• Host a cocktail tasting session. Create a classic menu with a professional bartender who provides history and describes the nuances behind the ingredients.
• Attend a cocktail tasting party. You will learn more about how and why ingredients are combined the way they are.
• Visit your local bookstore and pick up a cocktail or bar book. Follow the recipes and read about the histories these bartenders share. We recommend The Essential Bar Book by Jennifer Fielder, The Art and Science of The Perfect Cocktail by Janice Dreese, and Craft Cocktails at Home: Offbeat Techniques, Contemporary Crowd-Pleasers, and Classics Hacked with Science by Kevin Liu.
• Visit your local bar and pick your bartender's brain. Some like to share their techniques. Ask them what their favorite cocktail is. And, be sure to tip them well for their advice and service.
• Try making a mocktail. Especially on those weeknights when work is busy, and you need to keep up. Many of them infuse nutrients many of us are lacking. Keep these recipes on hand for your friends who are designated drivers, sober for life, supporting a friend, or for any reason.
• As always, ANY TIME we are indulging in spirits and alcohol, DON'T drink and drive. Designate a sober driver. Call a taxi, Uber, Lyft, or friend.

National Cocktail Day History

Jace Shoemaker Galloway founded National Cocktail Day in 2013

Cocktail FAQ

Q. What is the most popular spirit used in cocktails?
A. Vodka is most commonly used as a base spirit for cocktails. It's a versatile alcohol, and makers infuse it with many different flavors adding to its appeal. It also pairs well with simple or complex ingredients.

Q. What kinds of tools do I need to make great cocktails?
A. The ingredients are the most important tool in your bar collection. However, some of the most essential tools for making cocktails include a shaker, strainer, corkscrew, and muddler. Other tools that make your mixing easier include ice tongs, spoons, pourers, and straws.

Also

Cheesesteak Day

Chocolate Covered Raisin Day

 

Today's Thought

Few things are impossible to diligence and skill.  Great works are performed not by strength, but by perseverance.  ~ Samuel Johnson

 

 27 Days until Easter

 

 

 

 

23 March

NATIONAL PUPPY DAY  

 

Observed each year on March 23rd, National Puppy Day celebrates the unconditional love and affection puppies bring to our lives. Their cuddles and wiggles make us smile and without a doubt, there are squeals of delight when there are puppies around!

National Puppy Day

The day also brings awareness to the need for care of and homes for orphaned pups as well as to educate people about the horrors of puppy mills across the country. Puppies are a big responsibility. Be sure to consider everything involved and adopt from a shelter. The puppies there need love and a home just as much as any other and they grow into loyal pets, too!

According to the ASPCA, approximately 3.3 million dogs enter shelters every year. Some of these dogs come with litters of puppies. If you're seeking a puppy to start your furry family, check the shelters first. When these abandoned and abused animals find their way to a shelter, each one needs a forever home and their potential is limitless.

How to Observe National Puppy Day

• Go to the dog park and let your puppy play.
• Pick up a special treat for your puppy.
• Go for a walk with your young friend.

National Puppy Day History

National Puppy Day was founded in 2006 by Pet Lifestyle Expert, Animal Behaviorist and Author, Colleen Paige.  Paige is also the founder of National Dog Day and National Cat Day.

Puppy FAQ

Q. When do puppies become adults?
A. Puppies attain adulthood at various ages depending on the breed and size of the animal. However, they typically become adult dogs between their first and second birthday.

Q. Which is easier to train, puppies or adult dogs?
A. Both puppies and adult dogs can be successfully trained. However, puppies haven't developed any bad habits yet, so training a puppy is often easier than training an adult animal.

Q. Do I have to have a puppy to celebrate National Puppy Day?
A. No. Anyone who is a dog lover can celebrate the day.

 

Also

Chia Day

Chip & Dip Day

Melba Toast Day

Near Miss Day

Tamale Day

 

Today's Thought

Your time is limited, so don't waste it living someone else's life. ~ Steve Jobs

 

 28 Days until Easter