Does a Veterans Day parade 11-5 make 11-11 an easier 3 day vacation without commitments?

James Mendenhall — Thu, 25 Aug 2016 13:39:54 -0400

Response by COL Jason Smallfield, PMP, CFM, CM made Aug 25 at 2016 1:46 PM

COL Jason Smallfield, PMP, CFM, CM — Thu, 25 Aug 2016 13:46:46 -0400

A few thoughts:
- Floating holidays (ie Thanksgiving is last Thursday of November) versus fixed holidays (ie Veteran's Day) have advantages and disadvantages.
- I do not think the criteria for a holiday should be to maximize vacation time. The criteria for a holiday should be to serve the purpose of that holiday such as Veteran's Day, Labor Day, 4th July, etc.
- My personal observation is that Federal holidays have become just that, holidays (time off from work). I remember as a kid people taking time during Memorial Day weekend to participate in events to remember those being honored. Currently it appears to me that far less people are participating in events tied to the holiday.

Response by SFC Everett Oliver made Aug 25 at 2016 3:38 PM

SFC Everett Oliver — Thu, 25 Aug 2016 15:38:59 -0400

At the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month. No I wouldn't want Veterans day to be celebrated early..... Given my health and my wife's health I will make the early morning program at the High School, and make it downtown in time for the county program at 11 AM.....

Response by SGT David T. made Aug 25 at 2016 3:44 PM

SGT David T. — Thu, 25 Aug 2016 15:44:33 -0400

For those that participate 11/11 would make more sense to me. I don't participate but only because I have anxiety issues in crowded places.