In what has become one of its more popular annual celebrations, Gatlinburg will pay homage to all military men and women who have served and are still serving with the town’s Veterans Day Celebration this November. The growing Gatlinburg event will take place on Sunday, November 11 at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies at 2pm and is FREE to the public.
As designated by the Veterans Day National Committee, Department of Veterans Affairs, Gatlinburg is an official Regional Site for the observance of Veterans Day and one of two cities in the state of Tennessee to hold that honor. Across the United States, 57 different cities are bestowed with this prestigious honor. Of course, Veterans Day is marked nationally by a ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery just outside Washington DC in Virginia. Gatlinburg’s Veterans Day Celebration will occur in accordance with ceremonies taking place at the National Veterans Day Observance in Arlington.
“The time, date, and month hold historical significance, marking the anniversary of the Armistice that ended World War I,” said Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric Shinseki continued. “Much has changed in our world since then. These changes have strengthened the very fabric of our nation. We have seen this spirit reflected in the brave men and women who have set aside many of their personal goals and ambitions to serve in the United States Armed Forces.”
For those of you planning to make a day of it at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, activities on the docket include recognition of veterans, a military flyover, an American Bald Eagle presentation, patriotic music, and much more.
“Our veterans deserve our gratitude and coming to Gatlinburg for this event is one of many, many ways we can show our support and to thank the veterans,” said George Hawkins, special events manager for the City of Gatlinburg. “While it’s very important for us to remember those who gave their lives to protect our nation, Veterans Day is the holiday dedicated to letting the surviving Veterans know how much we appreciate them.”
The City of Gatlinburg and Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies are proud to sponsor this year’s Gatlinburg Veterans Day ceremony and hope that everyone will come out and give a big “Thank you!” to all our military men and women.