Honoring those who have served our country on Veterans Day is vital throughout the country, but Arlington will inspire you as nowhere else on earth.
Veterans Day is a very special time in Arlington and Washington, D.C. honoring those men and women that have served in the United States Armed Forces in war and peace. November 11 falls on a Monday this year will activities happening on Monday and throughout the weekend. In addition our proximity to the nation's capital, Arlington is the location of several of our nation's most cherished tributes to our veterans. Here are events designed specifically to honor our vets:
The national celebration, the Veterans Day National Ceremony is held annually on November 11th at Arlington National Cemetery. The ceremony commences precisely at 11:00 a.m., but seating is limited so it is recommended that attendees arrive early. The event starts with a wreath laying at the Tomb of the Unknowns and continues inside the Memorial Amphitheater with a parade of colors by veterans' organizations and remarks from dignitaries.
Witness formal military honors, a keynote address, veterans' remarks and a wreath laying at the Women in Military Service for America Memorial at 3:00 p.m. on November 11. The ceremony is free and open to the public at the memorial which honors all women who have served courageously, selflessly and with dedication.
One of the most striking additions to the region's skyline in recent years, the Air Force Memorial's soaring arcs (inspired by the contrails of Air Force Thunderbird aircraft as they peel back in a precision "bomb burst" maneuver) are visible from miles around. Visit the memorial to recognize the service and history of the men and women of the U.S. Air Force.
With its sweeping views of the Potomac River and Washington, D.C., your Veterans Day tour of the National Capital Area would not be complete without a visit to this striking memorial. The largest cast bronze statue in the world is dedicated to all Marines who have given their lives since 1775.
Washington, D.C. is also home to many war memorials most of which are concentrated on the National Mall. Honor the lives lost at war by visiting the Korean War Veterans Memorial, National World War II Memorial, and Vietnam Veterans Memorial on the National Mall. In Penn Quarter, you'll find the U.S. Navy Memorial, which is hosting a wreath laying ceremony at 1:00 p.m. on November 11.
Author: Kathleen Murphy
