In the United States, Veterans Day is the annual holiday on November 11th that honors military veterans who have served in any branch of the United States Armed Forces.
The United States Armed Forces include:
- U.S. Army (USA), established June 14th, 1775
- U.S. Navy (USN), established October 13th, 1775
- U.S. Air Force (USAF), established June 26th, 1947
- U.S. Coast Guard (USCG), established August 4th, 1790
- U.S. Marine Corps (USMC), established November 10th, 1775
- U.S. Space Force (USSF), established December 20th, 2019
We’ve curated a list of books that honor veterans and help readers understand how they’ve served their country:
Tuskegee Airmen
From the Series Heroes of World War II (Alternator Books ®)
- Interest Level: Grade 3 – Grade 6
- Reading Level: Grade 4
The Tuskegee Airmen were the first African American combat pilots in US military history. Ride along with these brave pilots on the dangerous military missions that changed the course of history.
Navajo Code Talkers
From the Series Heroes of World War II (Alternator Books ®)
- Interest Level: Grade 3 – Grade 6
- Reading Level: Grade 4
In the South Pacific in 1944 and 1945, military battles raged between the United States and Japan. Surrounded by rattling bullets and exploding bombs, a group of Navajo Marines sent secret messages back and forth. They used a code they had created from the Navajo language, a code the enemy was never able to crack. These young men had been recruited from their homes in the American Southwest. They brought with them incredible physical stamina and a language that had never been written down. Learn more about the Navajo code talkers—brave, creative heroes who used their unbreakable code to help the Allies win the war.
Women Pilots of World War II
From the Series Heroes of World War II (Alternator Books ®)
- Interest Level: Grade 3 – Grade 6
- Reading Level: Grade 4
World War II marked the first-time women pilots were trained to fly military planes in the United States. Although most were not allowed to fly combat missions, they provided great service to the Allied forces. Learn about the brave women in the United States, Great Britain, and the Soviet Union who trained, flew, and fought for the Allies, blazing a path for women in the military.
Women in the Military
From Drill Sergeants to Fighter Pilots
- Interest Level: Grade 6 – Grade 12
- Reading Level: Grade 8
Meet the women who have served their country courageously and who are standing up for fairness in the US military.
“[G]ently reminds everyone that women make up a huge section of the veteran population and should be treated with respect, just like their male counterparts.”—Booklist
“A thorough account of interest to report writers as well as young women considering a military career.”—Kirkus Reviews
Lightning Bolt Books ® — US Armed Forces
Introduce readers to the military branches that make up the United States armed forces. Captivating photos and clear, lively text explores the gear, the vehicles, the training—everything readers want to know about soldiers and the military. Each title includes a gear diagram and a short history of the branch.
Surviving a World War II Prison Camp
Louis Zamperini
From the Series They Survived (Alternator Books ®)
- Interest Level: Grade 3 – Grade 6
- Reading Level: Grade 4
During World War II, Louis Zamperini survived a plane crash, 46 days stranded on a life raft at sea, and two years in a prisoner-of-war camp. Discover how his strong will and positive attitude helped him survive against all odds.
“Told in a fast-paced, exciting tone and filled with well-chosen photographs, these titles afford readers a realistic glimpse into the lives of incredible individuals and will inspire them to face their own hardships with resilience and hope.”—Booklist
The US Space Force in Action
From the Series US Military Branches (UpDog Books ™)
- Interest Level: Grade 3 – Grade 5
- Reading Level: Grade 1
The US Space Force helps protect and maintain US satellites. Readers will explore what Space Force guardians do and the unique technology and vehicles they use.
Parents Here and There
A Kid’s Guide to Deployment
- Interest Level: Preschool – Grade 3
- Reading Level: Grade 1
Parents have many different jobs. Some work in the military and are away from home for months or years. When your parent is gone, you miss what you did together. What are some things you can do while they are gone?
“A helpful resource for the many young children affected by military deployment.”—Booklist
“Essential reading for many, many families.”—Kirkus Reviews
Need recommendations for your classroom? Check out our booklists on the Lerner blog.