Quick — think of a veteran.
Did your mind go straight to a man of a certain age? If so, think again.
Today’s veterans are men and women, old and young, whose military experiences have taken place anywhere from the island of Iwo Jima to the streets of Baghdad.
When they come together now, it’s for much more than a beer and the sharing of old stories: Today’s veterans and veterans’ organizations look to the future, and are making a new mark on our communities.
In honor of Veterans Day, this Friday, Nov. 11, read the stories of local veterans, then take time to honor these true American heroes.
Nov. 11 at 11 a.m.
Veterans Freedom Park, 1513 N. Harrison Ave.
Honor veterans of all wars and conflicts at this free patriotic program featuring members of Fort Bragg’s 82nd Airborne Division Band, and speaker U.S. Army veteran Andrew Zinkievich, who served as an infantry squad leader from 2005-10, including two tours to Iraq. Zinkievich is currently state adjutant with the Department of North Carolina Veterans of Foreign Wars.
Nov. 11 at 10 a.m.
Veterans Park, 600 Bikram Drive
Join in a flag ceremony led by Boy Scout Troop 356, music by the children’s choir of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, and inspirational words honoring U.S. military veterans.
Nov. 11 at 10:30 a.m.
Aversboro Road Baptist Church, 1600 Aversboro Road
This free veterans’ remembrance features a mini-concert of patriotic music played by Garner Magnet High School students.