Venerate our Veterans at Seven Commemorative Events and Historic Sites
(Washington, D.C.) — Each year on Veterans Day, the nation commemorates the sacrifice demonstrated by all men and women who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. For the American Battlefield Trust, the nation’s premier battlefield preservation organization, the experiences of citizen soldiers are a driving force in its mission of protecting America’s hallowed battlegrounds. Preserved battlefields are living memorials to the soldiers who fought there and serve as sacred spaces to pass on stories of heroism and sacrifice to the next generation of Americans. For veterans, these hallowed grounds represent a connection to history across generations of shared struggles, adversities, and devotion to the principles of liberty and justice.
On this Veterans Day, the Trust pauses to recognize the valor and perseverance of our nation’s veterans and recommends the following opportunities to honor with their stories of service and sacrifice:
November 8: 17th Annual Veterans Day Luminary at Sailor’s Creek Battlefield State Park, Rice, Va.
Join Virginia State Parks staff and historians as they lead guided evening tours of the historic Sailor’s Creek Battlefield. Walk the illuminated trail and hear gripping firsthand accounts from the men who fought here—raw, heartfelt stories that bring the past to life. This year’s luminary event promises a moving tribute you won’t want to miss. Learn more.
November 8: Baltimore City Veterans Day Parade, Baltimore, Md.
Join the City of Baltimore as it honors the brave men and women who served to protect our country at the Veterans Day Parade. Stepping off at Baltimore’s Washington Monument, the parade features marching bands, ROTC programs and military organizations. After, join in rededicating the War Memorial Building and enjoy a complimentary lunch, resource fair and family-friendly activities. Learn more.
November 8: “Like Thunder in the Hills Back Home” at Sgt. Alvin C. York State Historic Park, Pall Mall, Tenn.
Join the Sgt. Alvin C. York State Historic Park for its annual World War I living history event. Offering live demonstrations throughout park grounds, see "over the top" battles at the trench, walk through camp and experience what a Red Cross Hospital accomplished on the frontlines in their “Scenes from 1918” program. Learn more.
November 11: Veterans Appreciation Day at the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum & Visitor Center, Gettysburg, Pa.
U.S. military veterans are invited to enjoy free admission to the Film, Cyclorama & Museum Experience at the Gettysburg Military Park Museum to honor their service. Watch a screening of the documentary A New Birth of Freedom, experience a presentation of Picket’s Charge and explore the museum to connect with the rich history of the American experience. The federal shutdown does not impact this event. Learn more.
November 11: Veterans Day Service at Princeton University Chapel, Princeton, N.J.
In collaboration with the Princeton University ROTC and University Office of Religious Life, the Princeton Office of the Vice President for Campus Life will be offering its annual service at the University Chapel. Join the local community for presentation of the colors by the Princeton University ROTC “Tiger” Battalion cadets, speakers and musical performances by members of the university community. Learn more.
November 11: Veterans Day Commemoration Ceremony at the National WWII Museum, New Orleans, La.
Join the National WWII Museum for its annual commemoration ceremony for those who have and will continue to serve the nation. Held in partnership with the City of New Orleans and the Mayor’s Military Advisory Committee, the ceremony will feature a salute to all servicemembers, the presentation of the Mayor’s Military Advisory Committee Veteran of the Year award and remarks from a senior leader from one of the New Orleans area's military commands. The museum will also offer free admission to veterans of all conflicts. Learn more.
November 11: Military Appreciation Family Day at the Alamo, San Antonio, Texas
Join the Alamo as they salute our service members on our annual Military Appreciation Family Day. Veterans and all active-duty, reserve, and guard service members will receive free admission to the Alamo Exhibit at the Ralston Family Collections Center, plus free admission for one guest. As a special token of gratitude, a limited quantity of exclusive Alamo Church-shaped challenge coins will be gifted to veterans and active-duty guests. Learn more.
The American Battlefield Trust is dedicated to preserving America’s hallowed battlegrounds and educating the public about what happened there and why it matters today. The nonprofit, nonpartisan organization has protected more than 60,000 acres associated with the Revolutionary War, War of 1812 and Civil War. Learn more at www.battlefields.org.
