INGHAM COUNTY - Local organizations and businesses honor Veterans and Veterans Day in a number of ways on Wednesday, November 11th.

Historically Veterans Day began as Armistice Day in 1919 to celebrate the anniversary of the end of World War I. It became a national holiday in 1938 and now celebrates all U.S. Veterans.

The Haslett Kiwanis Club has placed "Flags Over Meridian" at local businesses and homes throughout the Township for Veterans Day.

Meridian Township offices are closed, along with other government agencies, to honor the special day.

Lansing Community College will pay tribute to all Veterans by inducting three Veterans into the Lansing Community College Veterans Memorial at noon.

The memorial was developed to honor Michigan veterans, with a special emphasis on those in Ingham, Eaton, and Clinton counties.

Area businesses are also honoring Veterans by offering discounts today:

Applebee's: This restaurant chain offers veterans one of seven entrees for free on Veterans Day every year. Beverage and gratuity are not included, and proof of service is required.

IHOP: A free stack of red, white and blue pancakes await veterans at the International House of Pancakes on Nov. 11.

Little Caesars: Pizza Pizza! The Michigan-based pizza chain is offering a free $5 lunch combo that includes four slices of deep dish pizza and a 20 oz soft drink to current and former members of the military on Veterans Day.

Outback Steakhouse: Those with a valid military ID can enjoy a free Bloomin' Onion and beverage on Nov. 11. Deployed military members can get a rain check to claim the offer at a later date. From Nov. 12 to Dec. 31, the steak chain is also offering 15 percent off to military personnel and their families.

Olive Garden: Veterans dining here will be able to choose from six entrees. Family members dining with a veteran will get 10 percent off their bills.