Veterans day is a time of remembrance when we pause to remember and honor American soldiers who have served or are serving in wars, and to celebrate their accomplishments. It is a special time when families and veterans alike can come together to pay homage to what it means to be of service to their country. It is also a time for us to give thanks to the veterans for all they have done or are doing to allow us to live as freely as we do now. In celebrating and memorializing this special day, there are a few great Veterans Day activities taking place in Phoenix, Arizona.
Salute To Our Troops Run
This race to salute the troops features a scenic 10k run, a 5k run/walk, and a family fun run around the beautiful lakes in the Sierra Estrella Mountain community of Estrella. The run benefits the Military Assistance Mission, which provides financial and moral aid to current active duty military soldiers, their families, and wounded warriors. They give assistance regardless of overseas deployment status, and are a non-profit organization. Participants will receive a commemorative t-shirt and sunglasses. This is a great way to spend time with family, exercise, and support a great cause.
Anthem Celebrates Veterans Day
The Anthem Veterans Memorial represents the five branches of the military. Each year on 11/11 at 11:11 a.m., the sun’s rays shine through the five pillars of the Anthem Veterans Memorial to form a perfect solar spotlight over a mosaic of the United States seal. Preceding this event, there will be a ceremony that honors the nation’s veterans. USAF Col. Wanda Wright, Director of Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services, will deliver the keynote address. She will pay special tribute to women veterans and medical/hospital personnel.
Phoenix Veterans Day Parade
The Phoenix Veterans Day Parade is a showcase of military and civilian marching units, color guards, military vehicles, equestrian units, floats, balloons, and bands, featuring almost 100 entries. A military flyover and the 108th Army National Guard Band also partake in the event. Taking two hours to complete and covering 2.5 miles, this is a parade that will get you saluting and cheering for the veterans the whole time.
Whether you want exercise, to be moved, or to watch a parade, there are plenty of options to support the troops this Veterans Day. Be sure to take advantage of all Phoenix and its surrounding areas have to offer this Veterans Day, and show your American pride.
