Because they served in the army. They're no more heroes than people serving now, but they have a day to recognize them. I would much prefer to honor the people that served and aren't here to...
A veteran is anyone who served in het Armed Forces (Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, U.S. Army, and Coast Guards).
Thailand sent men to fight in Vietnam; they are Vietnam veterans.
In the USA, Veteran's day is observed on 11 November, the original Armistice Day. It does not always fall on a weekend.
because of the age that he sustained play in the league