Today is Veterans Day, a federal and state holiday honoring the men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces.
The observance means several closures across Wayne County and Southern Illinois today, Wednesday, November 11th.
Area schools are closed for the holiday, along with most banks and financial institutions. Federal, state, and many local government offices, including county courthouses and city administrative offices, are also closed.
The U.S. Postal Service is observing Veterans Day, meaning post offices are closed and there will be no regular mail delivery today. Normal postal operations will resume Thursday, November 12th.
Illinois Secretary of State offices are also observing the holiday, although schedules may vary by facility. The Federal Reserve is closed, but online banking services and ATMs remain available.
Most retail stores, grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, and pharmacies are expected to operate on their regular Wednesday schedules. Some businesses may have adjusted hours, and residents should check ahead before visiting.
Originally known as Armistice Day, Veterans Day commemorates the end of World War I fighting on November 11th, 1918. The holiday was renamed Veterans Day in 1954 to recognize American veterans of all wars.