11-11-2024 12:38am

Veterans Day Weekend in Alamogordo Parade, Festival and Tularosa Remembrance

Chris Edwards Editor

World War I – known at the time as “The Great War” – officially ended when the Treaty of Versailles was signed on June 28, 1919, in the Palace of Versailles outside the town of Versailles, France. However, fighting ceased seven months earlier when an armistice, or temporary cessation of hostilities, between the Allied nations and Germany went into effect on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month. For that reason, November 11, 1918, is generally regarded as the end of “the war to end all wars.”

Veterans Day continues to be observed on November 11, regardless of what day of the week on which it falls. The observance of Veterans Day on November 11 not only preserves the historical significance of the date, but helps focus attention on the important purpose of Veterans Day: A celebration to honor America’s veterans for their patriotism, love of country, and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good. The Alamogordo region has observed Veterans Day with a weekend of festivities that culminates on Monday in Tularosa.

Saturday citizens lined 10th Street as floats, nonprofit organizations, businesses, students and the military all marched together to honor local veterans. In the afternoon and into the evening on Saturday the community came together at Alameda Park to enjoy the first annual Sounds of Freedom event. The event included live musical performances, food trucks and crafts vendors, activities for the children and a drone show to cap off the evening.

On Veterans Day Monday the mayor of Tularosa and others will join together in the town's annual Veterans Day Observance at the Tularosa Veterans Memorial Park. The 2024 Monday, Nov. 11 observance begins at 11 a.m. at the park Veterans from the American Legion Riders organization gathered together to support all military members.

To our veterans and those in active duty we salute you for your service!