Several events planned around the county
Americans will have the official opportunity to thank those that worked to keep this country free Tuesday, November 11, when this nation celebrates Veterans Day 2025.
For 106 years the United States has recognized military members that have served in peacetime and war. In 1919, President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed November 11 as the first Armistice Day. An armistice put in place one year earlier at 11:00 a.m. set the stage for the official end of World War I the following June. After World War II and the Korean Conflict, the name changed from Armistice Day to Veterans Day.
Several local events are planned to pay tribute to those living and deceased that have served in the United States Military. Service members that gave their life in service are given special recognition on Memorial Day each May.
The annual wreath laying ceremony at he Scott County Courthouse has been cancelled this year due to the on-going construction work there.
Other local events for Veterans Day include:
• Bettye Mae Jack Middle School located at 128 Martin Luther King Drive in Morton will be hosting a Veterans Day Celebration on November 11 at 9:00AM to honor local Veterans. “We would like to invite all our area veterans to come and take part in our honoring of their sacrifices made for our cherished freedoms,” organizers said. This year’s keynote speaker will be Lieutenant Joseph “Tell” Matuszewski a C17 pilot with the 172nd Airlift Wing of the Mississippi Air National Guard. Tell was a 2011 graduate of Raleigh High School. “Please make time to come help us honor our Veterans while encouraging our students.” There will be a reception afterwards honoring the Veterans hosted by the Morton Homemakers Club.
• Forest High School Beta Club will also honor Veterans at 9:00 a.m. Tuesday. The public is invited as they honor Veterans for all of the sacrifices they have made for freedom! The program will be held in the Forest Elementary School Auditorium, 513 Cleveland St. in Forest, and breakfast will be served to all Veterans in the Forest High School Library immediately following the program.
The Club plans to present a video tribute “to honor the commitment and sacrifice of alumni who have served or currently serve in the United States Armed Forces.”
• Lake Elementary School will host their annual come and go breakfast for Veterans on Tuesday from 8:00 until 9:00 a.m. in the cafeteria. RSVP by calling the office at 601-775-3011.
In addition, the 2025 Veterans Day Ceremony at the Two Mississippi Museums will honor Mississippi’s veterans and fallen heroes on Friday, Nov. 7. The program will feature a performance by the 41st Army Band, a moment of silence, and recognition of veterans and fallen service members by the Adjutant General of the Mississippi National Guard. A memorial volley and wreath laying will follow.
To honor all who have served, the Two Mississippi Museums will offer free admission Nov. 7 to veterans, active service members, and one family member. Free parking is available at the visitor parking garage, behind the museums on Jefferson Street and along North Street.
There will also be a Veterans Day Block Party & Car Show at G.V. (Sonny) Montgomery VA Medical Center on Sunday, Nov. 9 from 12:00 p.m. until 2:30 p.m.
This special event will feature a car show and parade, bringing together Veterans, families, staff, and community members for a day of pride and celebration. Attendees can enjoy classic cars, patriotic displays, and the excitement of a parade at 1:00 p.m. honoring those who served.
The block party will also include tables staffed with VA employees providing information on a variety of VA programs and services available to Veterans. This community celebration highlights the spirit of service and gratitude that defines Veterans Day.
It is open to Veterans, families, caregivers, VA employees, and community members. The Medical Center is located at 1500 E Woodrow Wilson Avenue in Jackson.