Several community groups are hosting events in honor of our nation’s veterans. Here’s a preview:
Downtown Blaine
The public can attend a veteran’s memorial service at the corner of H and 3rd streets at 10:30 a.m. on Sunday, November 11. A ceremony, featuring members of the honor guard, will begin promptly at 11 a.m.
The ceremony is put on by several local veteran’s groups, including the Blaine American Legion Post 86. It takes place every year outside of the Blaine Police Department station, where a number of memorial statues are on display.
Learn more: 360/371-7311.
Peace Arch Park
Joining groups across the nation, the International Peace Arch Association (IPAA) will host a bell ringing ceremony to mark the centennial of the end of World War I on Sunday November 11 at Peace Arch Park.
The ceremony will begin at 10:30 a.m. and will be followed by bell ringing at 11 a.m. and a dove release at 11:10 a.m. It’s being hosted in conjunction with the Bells of Peace: A National World War I Remembrance campaign, which is sponsored by The United States World War I Centennial Commission.
“We invite our Canadian brothers and sisters to join us at the Peace Arch for this commemorative program as we remember the 116,516 American and the 56,638 Canadian men, women and children who lost their lives in this conflict,” according to the IPAA.
The first 250 veterans who arrive will receive a special commemorative gift from the IPAA honoring them for their service. Guests will have the chance to view a World War I poster display and an exhibition by the Washington State Historical Society as well as participate in an activity called ‘Poppies for Peace.’
A $10 donation will be accepted and parking is free that day at the state park.
Learn more: 360/332-7165.
Blaine Senior Center
Beginning at 11:30 a.m. on Monday, November 12 the Blaine Senior Center will host a lunch.
Veterans and their loved ones can bring photos to display and are invited to share their personal stories. Blaine Senior Center director Kathy Sitker said at least two people are already planning to speak at the event.
“We have a lot of men and women who served in the military,” Sitker said. “This is our way of thanking them.”
Beef burgundy over rice, roasted carrots, a garden salad and chocolate cake will be served for lunch. To ensure everyone gets a meal, please RSVP by calling 360/332-8040.
The Blaine Senior Center is located at 763 G Street.
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