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Today, communities in the St. Louis area are coming together to honor our nation’s military heroes on Veterans Day. Various events are taking place throughout the day to show appreciation for the courage, sacrifice, and dedication of veterans and active-duty personnel.

In Manchester, American Legion Post 208 is hosting a breakfast from 7 to 10 a.m. where city staff will serve a meal to veterans and active-duty personnel as a token of gratitude. In Margaret Stoecker Park, the Flags of Valor display can be viewed until 3 p.m., featuring flags that were flown in remembrance of the September 11th attacks. The day will conclude with the “Hometown Heroes Appreciation Ceremony” at 6 p.m. at the Manchester Justice Center, where live music and personal stories of veterans will be shared.

Over in Belleville, the St. Louis Area Foodbank is holding a food distribution event for veterans and their families at the First United Presbyterian Church on Royal Heights Road from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Fresh produce, pantry staples, and personal care items will be available. Another distribution will take place in St. Louis at the Starr Parking Lot on South 8th Street from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m.

In St. Peters, the Veterans Day Ceremony will be held at the Cultural Arts Centre inside City Hall at 10 a.m. Guest speakers Sergeant Major Serena Rowan, a 30-year Army veteran, and Commander Patricia Lee of the Navy Reserves will share their experiences and service at this important gathering organized by the St. Peters Veterans Memorial Commission.

In downtown St. Louis, the French Society of St. Louis will lead a wreath-laying ceremony at Soldiers Memorial starting at 10:50 a.m. This solemn event honors the sacrifices of local St. Louisans who served their country. Soldiers Memorial is also featuring two free exhibits, “Ghost Army” and “St. Louis in Service,” showcasing historical context and honoring local military contributions.

As we come together to celebrate Veterans Day, let us take this opportunity to express our gratitude and support for the brave men and women who have served and continue to serve our country. These events provide a chance for the community to come together and show appreciation for the sacrifices made by our military members. Let us honor their courage and dedication on this special day.