Veterans Day is coming soon, and the importance and meaning of this day is something that should be shared with your children. Most families have or know someone that has served or is serving in the military.
The first celebration using the term Veterans Day occurred in Birmingham, Alabama, in 1947. Raymond Weeks, a World War II veteran, organized “National Veterans Day,” which included a parade and other festivities, to honor all veterans. The event was held on November 11, then designated Armistice Day. Later, U.S. Representative Edward Rees of Kansas proposed a bill that would change Armistice Day to Veterans Day. In 1954, Congress passed the bill that President Eisenhower signed proclaiming November 11 as Veterans Day. Raymond Weeks received the Presidential Citizens Medal from President Reagan in November 1982. Why Nov. 11? It’s the day that signifies the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918, when World War I ended.
Veterans Day is personal to me because my papaw served in World War II. He enjoyed sharing his stories with family and friends, and especially showing his medals. He was such a proud veteran, and he loved attending the school programs honoring vets. He has been gone ten years now, but anytime this day nears, I reflect on him and his bravery and pride.
We have gathered some ways to help you honor and celebrate those who fought and continue to serve for us!
- Remember why we celebrate: Teach them the history of how and why Veterans Day was created.
- Thank a veteran: Create a card, letter or poster. You can find out how to send a letter via Project Giving Kids. Also, there are many craft ideas here. Crayola has coloring sheets!
- Take a tour of war memorials (virtually or in person). Locally, we have the World War II Memorial at Bicentennial Park, the War Memorial Building, or battlefields in Franklin and Murfreesboro. Laying a wreath on a grave is a beautiful way to honor those soldiers.
- There is a Veterans Day parade in downtown Nolensville on Saturday, November 9th at 11a. The parade begins at Rolling Hills Community Church and will proceed straight down Nolensville Road, through The Historic District, and ending on Nolensville Park Road.
- The City of Franklin will remember and honor all veterans at its Veterans’ Day Parade being held in Downtown Franklin on November 11, 2024, at 11 a.m. The parade is a joint effort of the City and local radio station WAKM AM-950. The parade route travels down Main Street, from Five Points to Second Avenue. JROTC units and/or marching bands from Williamson County high schools will participate. The Franklin Special School District will also send a large group of students to show their appreciation to veterans.The Parade begins promptly at 11:00 a.m. at West Main and Fifth Avenue. Prior to the parade, a reception will be held at the Williamson County Archives from 9 a.m. until 11 a.m. for local veterans and their families.
- Join Next Response Foundation at The Local, Hendersonvillefor a special event honoring our veterans! We invite all Veterans, their families and community supporters. This is a safe place for local Veterans to gather on Veterans day to meet other Veterans, share stories and enjoy a meal – a portion of all proceeds will go to Next Response Foundation to support Veterans and community heroes. Monday, November 11, 3-5p
- The VA Hospital in Murfreesboro is bringing back the Veterans Day Parade. Join them for the annual TVHS Veterans Day Parade on Saturday, Nov. 16 at 11a on the steps of the historic Alvin C. York VA Medical Center. Help them honor America’s Veterans by cheering on local high school bands, high school JROTCS, car caravans, and several floats. Parade goers will be greeted by TVHS Grand Marshals and enjoy a flyover! Pre-parade festivities include community fun, live entertainment, and local food vendors. We hope to see you there!
- The Murfreesboro Veterans Day Service is set for November 11th, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. This is the 28th year! The service will be held at the Rutherford County Courthouse (Rain or shine – Bring your own bag chair – Free Event).
- The annual La Vergne Veterans Day Ceremony is scheduled for November 11 at 11 a.m. at La Vergne City Hall, located at 5093 Murfreesboro Road. There will be speakers and a 21 gun salute (recorded). Taps will also be played. The parks department is also offering two ways for families and friends to honor their loved ones who have served in the armed forces.
- The parks department will be offering commemorative American flags that can be purchased for $10.00. The flags will be on display in our Freedom Field and will also be marked with the honored veteran’s information. Anyone interested should contact Parks and Recreation at (615) 793-3224 or stop by 294 Sand Hill Road for more details. Forms can also be filled out online.
- The City of La Vergne also still has space on its memorial wall to honor family, friends, neighbors, and colleagues who have served in the U.S. armed forces. The wall is a permanent commemorative display that is lined with bricks engraved with the names of honored men and women who have served our great country. If you have questions, contact the Parks and Recreation Department at 615-793-3224.
- The Dickson Veterans Day Parade is Sunday, November 10, 2024 at 2 pm
- Read a book together about veterans and our military. Here is a great list and resource of friendly books!
- Participate in Greenlight a Vet! By replacing a light in your home with a green light bulb, perhaps in your child’s room or on your front porch, you are demonstrating your acknowledgment and appreciation of the service of our veterans.
- Invite a veteran or active member of the military to a meal. Many restaurants offer free or discounted meals to veterans, such as Applebee’s, Mission BBQ, Bob Evans, Buffalo Wild Wings, Chilis, Dunkin Donuts, Texas Roadhouse, and others. Share a meal with a veteran you know.
- In gratitude for the commitment, bravery and sacrifices made by those who serve our country, Nashville Zoo and Regions Bank invite active military personnel, military veterans and their immediate families to receive free admission during Military Appreciation Day on Sunday, November 10. Advance reservations are not required. See below for redemption instructions.
- Send care packages. Have your kids create care packages for veterans or those currently serving in the military. Items such as socks, soap, toothpaste, toothbrush and deodorant, but also sending puzzles, board games or other fun activities is a great idea, too.
