Show your support for our troops this weekend at a Veterans Day commemoration.
The nation’s premier event, of course, is at Arlington National Cemetery, across the Potomac from Washington, D.C. It begins Sunday Nov. 11 at 11 a.m. That’s when the wreath will be laid at the Tomb of the Unknowns, one of the most somberly stirring ceremonies our culture can conjure.
Although there will be officials there in profusion, the wreath-laying is open to the public – but plan on getting there really early. Space is limited to standing-room-only. Arlington’s gates open at 8 a.m. Shortly thereafter shuttle will begin transporting people from the visitors’ center up to the Tomb of the Unknowns. Usually, you can walk the distance. Not Sunday. Parking in the visitors’ center lot is free all day. That center is a quarter-mile hike from the Arlington National Cemetery Metro station. It’s served by the Blue Line, a few quick stops from Reagan Washington National Airport.
Not everyone can make it to D.C., but most of us live close enough to a VA Medical Center to make that trip. Consider:
- The Phoenix VA Medical Center hosts its annual parade Nov. 12. This year’s theme: Healing Wounds, Honoring Their Sacrifice.
- The Portland VA Medical Center is planning a major observation of Veterans Day. Part ‘n parcel of it will be a Nov. 10 performance by Portland Chamber Music at the Community Living Center in Vancouver.
- The Bedford, Mass. VA Medical Center holds five- and 10-kilometer runs Nov. 10. The races begin and end on the hospital grounds. Proceeds support deployed military personnel and their families.
- The Alexandria, La. VA Medical Center is putting on a parade Nov. 11, followed by a formal program and community picnic.
(Image: Vince Alongi)
You don’t need to be a hero to honor one. Just join with others and remember those who’ve sacrificed so much for so many.
