Veterans Day began as Armistice Day, established to honor Americans who had served in World War I. While the holiday is still observed on Nov. 11, the day World War I ended in 1918, these days, Veterans Day pays respect to veterans of all wars, honoring their patriotism and willingness to sacrifice for their country.
Here are some local events planned to honor veterans and their service this Veterans Day, Nov. 11:
Vietnam Women’s Memorial, 9 a.m. to noon and 2p.m. to 5 p.m. Vietnam-era veterans and the children of veterans tell personal stories about their wartime experiences. Constitution Ave. and Henry Bacon Drive NW, Washington D.C. For more information call 301-314-8505.
Arlington National Cemetery, 11 a.m. Annual wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Across the Potomac River from Washington in Arlington, Virginia at the end of the Memorial Bridge. Seating in the amphitheater is limited so guests needing seats are encouraged to arrive at least half an hour early. For more information call 703-607-8000.
Mount Vernon Estate and Gardens, a day of special activities include at 11 a.m., a patriotic concert by all-veterans barbershop chorus; at 2 p.m., a wreath-laying ceremony at the tomb of George Washington and, at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. a costumed “Martha Washington” re-enactor relates her wartime experiences. Active duty military and personnel and veterans admitted free of charge. Wreath-laying included in regular Mount Vernon admission. The barbershop concert and the Martha Washington programs are free. Mount Vernon Estate is located at the southern terminus of the George Washington Memorial Parkway in Mount Vernon, Virginia. For more information call 703-780-2000.
Luncheon to Honor America’s Forgotten Heroes, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Central Union Mission will host a lunch for local homeless veterans. Special guests will include retired military officers and officials from the US Department of Veterans Affairs. Central Union Mission 1350 R St NW, Washington, D.C. For more information call 202-MISSION.
Welcome Table Dinner in Honor of Homeless Veterans, noon to 3 p.m. Music, fellowship, homemade chicken cacciatore and pasta with meatballs. Meal limited to first 300 guests. Sign up at front entrance. Doors open at 10:30 a.m. The Church of the Epiphany, 1317 G Street NW, Washington, D.C. For more information please call 202- 347-2635.
