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.
This year Nov. 11 falls on a Sunday, meaning the nationally observed date is the following day. The following memorial traditions, however, will take place on that Sunday.
Besides 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:
Sunday, November 11 (11 a.m.)
This is the National Veterans Day Observance. Seating in the amphitheater is limited; arrival by 9:30 a.m. is recommended. The ceremony starts at 11 a.m. with a wreath-laying at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and continues inside the Memorial Amphitheater with the parade of colors by veterans’ organizations and speeches by the president or his designees.
Witness formal military honors, a keynote address, veterans' remarks and a wreath laying at the Women in Military Service for America Memorial at 3 p.m. Nov. 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 (representing the image of flight by jet and space craft) are visible from miles around. Visit the memorial to recognize the service and heritage of the men and women of the U.S. Air Force.
With its sweeping view across the Potomac River of The Mall, your Veterans Day tour of the National Capital Area would not be complete without a visit to this hallowed place. The largest cast bronze statue in the world is dedicated to all Marines who have given their lives since 1775.
Author: Kathleen Murphy
Located on a beautiful hillside vista in Arlington, VA, the Air Force Memorial honors the service and sacrifice of America’s Airmen.
