Veterans and community members gather at community events throughout the area, such as the Kiwanis Club of Carmichael annual Veterans Day celebration at the Koobs Nature Area pictured here from last Nov. 11. Photo by Susan Maxwell Skinner
SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) – With Veterans Day approaching on Nov. 11, numerous local organizations are planning events to honor the sacrifices and contributions of veterans, offering residents opportunities to show their support and appreciation.
Every Nov. 11, Americans celebrate Veterans Day to honor the more than 19.5 million heroes who have served in the U.S. military, according to the United Service Organizations (USO). Ceremonies often begin at 11:11 a.m. to commemorate the moment when the armistice was signed—at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month—bringing an end to World War I.
In recognition of Veterans Day, the Cordova Community Council is hosting two special events to honor the sacrifices of those who have served in the military, under the theme "Their Sacrifice, Our Gratitude."
From Nov. 9 to Nov 12, residents can pay tribute to veterans by visiting a striking installation of more than 500 American flag along Folsom Boulevard.
On Tuesday, Nov. 12 community members are invited to honor a veteran by participating in a blood drive at Rancho Cordova City Hall located at 2729 Prospect Park Drive. The drive will run from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. by appointment only. To schedule a donation, visit donors.vitalant.org and use code SMFT154.
Join the Kiwanis Club of Carmichael for an annual Veterans Day celebration at the Koobs Nature Area at 11 a.m. Nov. 11. The ceremony will take place in front of the Vietnam Memorial, honoring those who served. The nature area will open at 10 a.m., and refreshments will be available for attendees. This event pays tribute to veterans and celebrates the legacy of Earl “Ranger Jack” Koobs, the World War II veteran for whom the area is named.
In addition, the community will honor local heroes at the annual Wall of Honor event at Patriots Park, 6825 Palm Ave., Fair Oaks at 10 a.m. Nov. 11. This event recognizes community members who have given their lives in the line of duty, with representation from various service areas including the California Highway Patrol, Sacramento Sheriff’s Department, Sacramento Metro Fire District and the U.S. Military. Light refreshments will be served.
A dedication ceremony for a new flagpole at the Veterans Memorial Building in Carmichael Park will take place at noon Sunday, Nov. 10.
Rio Linda will commemorate Veterans Day with a flag display from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Nov. 11 A special ceremony will take place at 11:11 a.m. at Depot Park, located at 6730 Front St. The event will feature speakers from various organizations, and local Girl Scouts will place flags throughout the park in honor of the veterans.
American Legion Post 637 will hold its annual Veterans Day ceremony at 11 a.m. Nov. 11 at Sylvan Cemetery, located at 7401 Auburn Blvd. in Citrus Heights. The event will feature speakers honoring the veterans, along with a performance by Harmony Express.