I really should have said hug a veteran and active duty person every chance you get, not just this week. Through the years and wars America’s Veterans, while they were active duty members, have answered the call. There has been a lot of focus on the presidential election rightly so. Just think however, that this and all of our elections were made possible by our military personnel. Do not even forget the fact that military personnel are not only willing to give their life for their country but they give up their lives. The sacrifices are more that being on the front lines. They include separation from their family and friends, being away from the U.S and all of our lifestyle creature comforts and they sacrifice financially as military personnel traditionally are paid no where near what they could be making in the general workforce. So why do they do it? Because they feel it is important and worth whatever it takes to make sure that we continue to have free elections along with our all of our freedom.
And as in previous years, I am making my pitch this Veterans Day for my readers to give consideration to making a difference in the lives of these wonderful Americans. Think about the difference they have made in yours. The season of giving is fast approaching and I wanted to ask you that if you are planning to give any donations this year, that you seriously consider a donation to the USO. What they do is more than “Bob Hope” type shows. They offer a place for soldiers in transition at airports throughout the world, they deliver care packages to active duty men and woman all over the world, they have free pre-paid phone cards for frontline troops to call home, Mobile Canteens and USO2GO for remote locations to make deliveries and visits to our troops and much more. Also they spend a great deal of time focusing on bringing troops and their loved ones comfort and care. Two of their especially wonderful programs for kids are United Through Reading and The Sesame Street-USO experience. I encourage you to visit their site, http://www.uso.org, and learn more about these exceptional programs.
I know that times have been tough for so many people these past few years but I implore you to give the USO a look if you decide to make a charitable contribution this holiday season. Even a small contribution goes a long way. And when you think of the many sacrifices that these men and women have made and are still making, you might find it in your heart to say thanks this way.
So as a show of support this week, hug a veteran and attend a ceremony, parade or festival in your area.
Veterans Day Parade
Nov 10, 2012
Albany Downtown Albany, OR US 97321
Come early to get a good spot along the parade route and visit one of Downtown Albany’s many fun stores, restaurants and coffee shops to warm you up while you wait.
10,000 Attendees
Albany Veteran’s Day Parade
Nov 09, 2012
Downtown Albany, NY US 12288
Since 1955. Albany’s annual Veterans Day Parade kicks off at the corner of Central Avenue and Partridge Street at 11am. The parade proceeds east on Central, continues east on Washington Avenue to Hawk Street, located just east of the NYS Capitol. The reviewing stand is situated on the steps of the NYS Education Building. The Albany Veterans Day Parade is presented by the City of Albany Joint Veterans Committee.
30,000 Attendees
Veterans Day Parade
Nov 11, 2012
Downtown Columbia Columbia, SC US 29201
Since 1982, a spectacular procession of Marching high school bands, military equipment and Marching installations from around the state is a special tribute to veterans.
10,000 Attendees
Veteran’s Day Parade
Nov 10, 2012
Court House Square Iola, KS US 66749
A special tribute, memorial service, and parade in honor of our country’s veterans.
10,000 Attendees
Veteran’s Day Festival
Nov 12, 2012
Bowling Green Park New York, NY US 10004
Plenty of foods, vendors and ceremonies honoring our Nation’s veterans. Takes place on Whitehall Street from Beaver – Stone and Inside Bowling Green Park.
70,000+ Attendees
Veteran’s Day Parade Block Party
Nov 12, 2012
Mid-Town Manhattan New York, NY US 10004
Plenty of foods, commercial vendors and ceremonies honoring our Nation’s veterans. Takes place on 53rd Street from Madison – 6th Avenue.
70,000+ Attendees
Veteran’s Day Parade and Ceremony
Nov 11, 2012
Downtown Aurora, IL US 60504
The City will honor those who have fought for our country’s freedom starting with a processional that steps off at the Prisco Community Center, 150 W. Illinois Ave. The processional will head east on Illinois toward Veterans Island. A ceremony honoring local veteran organizations will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Veterans Island and will be concluded with a military rifle salute.
8,000 Attendees
Colorado Springs Veterans Day Parade
Nov 10, 2012
Downtown Colorado Springs, CO US 80903
One of the United States largest Veterans Day Parades. Parade features veterans groups, active duty military units, floats, and bands. Fun for the whole family.
25,000 Attendees
Maria can be reached directly at eventsblog@eventcrazy.com or visit her website at www.eventcrazy.com
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The Balancing Act 