Dedicated to American veterans of all wars, Veterans Day occurs annually on November 11. Originally called Armistice Day, it was created when in 1918, on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, an armistice, or temporary cessation of hostilities, was declared between the Allied nations and Germany in World War I, then known as “the Great War.” Commemorated in many countries as Armistice Day the following year, November 11th became a federal holiday in the United States in 1938. In 1954, in the aftermath of World War II and the Korean War, Armistice Day became known as Veterans Day to honor veterans of all wars and conflicts.

In the days leading up to this holiday, we’ll be participating in several Veteran’s Day school programs across the valley as students learn about what it means to be a veteran, and participate in flag presentations to honor those that sacrificed and gave their all in service to our country.

Wenatchee Veterans Day Parade will start at 10:30 from Wells Fargo Bank on N. Chelan Ave and travel south to Memorial Park located at S. Chelan Ave and Orondo Ave. After a short ceremony with rifle volley and playing of Taps, the parade route will head downhill to Mission Ave, and then north to the starting point at Wells Fargo Bank. We’ll be participating with our 1957 Navy Shore Patrol Jeep “Annabelle” and handing out American flags along the parade route.

Afterwards, join us at Pybus Public Market from 12 noon to 3pm for a free BBQ hosted by Wenatchee Valley Fire Department. There will be music, resources for veterans, face painting for those interested in bringing their family, artwork on display from our community’s children thanking veterans for their service and camaraderie of fellow veterans.

Additionally, several restaurants in town will be offering free meals to veterans on November 11th including Olive Garden, Red Robin, Denny’s, and Applebee’s.