November 11 became a federal holiday in the United States in 1938 as Armistice Day. In 1918, on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, an armistice was declared between the Allied nations & Germany in World War 1. The next year, 1919, President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed November 11 as the first commemoration to honor the World War 1 soldiers in the United States. Armistice Day is celebrated in other countries, even to this day. After World War II & the Korean War, the holiday became known as VETERANS DAY. The first VETERANS DAY celebration occurred in Birmingham, AL in 1947, which included a parade & other festivities to honor all veterans.

VETERANS DAY is NOT be confused with Memorial Day, which is a somber holiday in which we remember all the soldiers that have died in war. VETERANS DAY is a celebration to honor all who have served in all branches of our military. So it is appropriate to say, “Happy Veterans Day”!     

Coming up this Friday & Saturday is the annual SALUTE! Pre-Veterans Day Weekend Event.  Friday, November 4, at 2:30 PM a Brick Dedication Ceremony will be held at the Walk of Honor in Tiffany West Park on Herritage Street.  Brick Dedication honors all veterans and first responders & their families, who purchased a brick to be laid at the Walk of Honor. Immediately following the dedication, a special US Flag Disposal Ceremony will be held!  

Saturday, November 5, at 7:00 PM the Tar River Community Band will give a concert at the Kinston-Lenoir Performing Arts Center at Kinston High School. This band is a professional group of musicians from Greenville, NC. This band is awesome! It is all free for the public!

PLEASE  HELP US HONOR OUR  WELL DESERVING  VETERANS WITH THIS WEEKEND EVENT!  

ALL GAVE SOME !!        SOME GAVE ALL!!      FREEDOM IS NOT FREE!!       

Other events happening Saturday, November 5, from 1:00 - 4:00 PM is a special model airplane show behind the old Lowe’s Food Club on Airport Road hosted by Kinston Aeromodelers. Also, the Beer Barn off East New Bern Road is holding their 4th Annual Chili Cook-off. At 6:00 PM there will be a special program honoring veterans. All funds raised will benefit Lucky Cats of Kinston.  

HAPPY VETERANS DAY TO ALL VETERANS!