November 11 was chosen because it marks the end of World War I , which effectively ceased hostilities on November 11, 1918.

Core fact

  • The armistice that ended the fighting in World War I took effect at “the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month” in 1918.
  • Veterans Day in the United States traces its date directly to this World War I armistice.

Extra context

  • The day was originally called Armistice Day and was focused on honoring those who served in World War I.
  • In 1954, the U.S. government renamed it Veterans Day to honor veterans of all wars, but the November 11 date was kept to preserve its World War I significance.

TL;DR: November 11 honors U.S. veterans because World War I ended on November 11, 1918.