Nearly 18 million people will be honored at Veterans Day celebrations held Friday across the country and globe for a holiday that ties back to the end of World War I.

The date marks when Germany and the Allies signed a 1918 agreement to end war hostilities. Fighting ended on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month. At the time, Nov. 11, 1918 was known as the end of “the war to end all wars,” according to U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

In 1919, President Wilson proclaimed Nov. 11 as the first commemoration of Armistice Day to celebrate and observe the end of hostilities with parades, public meetings and a “brief suspension of business beginning.”

“To us in America, the reflections of Armistice Day will be filled with solemn pride in the heroism of those who died in the country’s service and with gratitude for the victory,” Wilson declared.

“Thank you for serving our country and protecting our freedoms. Today and every day we are grateful for your sacrifices”