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 Veterans' Museum volunteers Ray Nolan and Henry Bishop are busy completing an obstacle course for children age 5 to 12 years old attending the museum's third annual Armed Forces Day celebration this Saturday. A ceremony honoring veterans, active servicemen and their families will take place at noon, with the day's activities beginning at 9 a.m. [Click to enlarge] |
The event has grown each year to include World War II re-enactments, vendors, children's activities, weapons demonstrations, tours of military helicopters and vehicles, and a performance by the Navy Rock Band. But organizers have not lost the main reason for the celebration.
"First and uppermost is the recognition of our veterans and their families," said Halls Veterans' Museum President Pat Higdon. "The second focus is to invite the families of deceased veterans and those (servicemen) who cannot be present, like people on active duty. The third purpose is to honor all branches of the service."
This year's event will provide an entire day of children's activities in addition to events that will draw residents of all ages.
"This year, we have more vendors than we have ever had and it's the first year we've done things for the children," said Higdon. "We are offering a free day of activities. A free day out."
The schedule includes:
* 9 a.m.-gates open.
* 9 a.m.-National Guard recruits march from Halls Community Center to Veterans' Museum.
* 9 a.m.-5 p.m.-Children's activities offered all day.
* 9 a.m.-5 p.m.-Veterans' Museum open all day. Museum admission is $2, with senior citizens admitted free.
* 10 a.m.-weapons demonstration in the museum area.
* 10:30 a.m.-World War II re-enactment at Norden Bomb Site.
* noon-Welcome and recognition of military branches including presentations by the Ripley High School JROTC Color Guard, RHS JROTC Drill Team and Halls High School Band.
* 1:30 p.m.-weapons demonstration in the museum area.
* 2 p.m.-WW II re-enactment around Norden Bomb Site.
* 3-5 p.m.-Navy Rock Band performance, with some country music included.
Those interested in more information may contact The Veterans' Museum at 836-7400.