Veteran’s Day is an official federal holiday that honors America’s veterans for their patriotism, love of country, and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good. It is observed on November 11th.
President Woodrow Wilson first proclaimed Armistice Day for November 11, 1919. He stated, “To us in America, the reflections of Armistice Day will be filled with solemn pride in the heroism of those who died in the country’s service and with gratitude for the victory, both because of the thing from which it has freed us and because of the opportunity it has given America to show her sympathy with peace and justice in the councils of the nations.”
Local Special Veteran’s Day Events:
- The St. Petersburg Museum of Fine Arts: All active and retired military personnel will receive a complimentary admission to the Museum with valid ID on Veteran’s Day.
- The Dali Museum: Free admission to galleries on Nov 11 for veterans and active military with ID (plus one guest). Veterans and active military with ID also receive a 25% discount at Cafe Gala.
- The Bay Pines VA Healthcare System: Veterans Day Ceremony on Tuesday, November 11, at 11:00 a.m. in the courtyard located in buildings 2 and 37 on the C.W. Bill Young VA Medical Center Campus. The event is open to all veterans, their family and friends, and the general public.
Related Links: With more than 100,000 veterans residing in Pinellas County, the Pinellas County Office of Veteran Services is an important link in helping residents understand and obtain important government services. This program helps Pinellas County veterans and their families receive better access to services. There is no fee or cost for submitting an application for VA benefits. Services are also free of charge.
Hours are Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The St. Petersburg office is located at 647 1st Avenue, N. (St. Petersburg, 33701) Telephone: 727/582-7828.
Of interest:
From the Veterans Benefits Administration: On July 3rd, 1863, Army Lt. Alonzo Cushing was killed during the Battle of Gettysburg. Lt. Cushing was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor by President Obama in a ceremony held last week at the White House.
Lt. Cushing was a West Point graduate and artillery officer. He was in command of a union artillery unit that was hit hard by Confederate troops in what became known as “Pickett’s Charge.” Lt. Cushing stood firm during the onslaught and kept leading his unit, in spite of his severe injuries. He was killed during the battle. His actions contributed to the Union Army’s victory at Gettysburg.
