November 2015 Volume 15, Issue 11 A publication of the Manhattan Convention & Visitors Bureau
Veterans Day Parade On Nov. 11, Americans gather to honor the service of this country’s soldiers and veterans on occasion of the 97th Veterans Day observance, with a parade along Poyntz Avenue to begin at 9:30 a.m. The significance of this date was the cessation of hostilities that ended World War I. Congress made Nov. 11 an official holiday in June 1926.
Nearly 50 groups will participate in this year’s parade, including city commissioners and 2,000 children from more than local 15 school groups including the Riley County and Rock Creek high school marching bands. The parade route begins at Manhattan Town Center and continues to City Park, with soldiers from the 1st Infantry Division and 1st Infantry Division Band. • Parade grand marshals: Veryl Switzer, Lazone Grays • 7 a.m. Veterans Day breakfast (7 a.m.) at American Legion Post 17, 114 McCall Road • 9:30 a.m. Veterans Day parade
• 11 a.m. City auditorium program, keynote speaker Maj. Gen. Wayne W. Grigsby, Jr., Commanding General, Fort Riley • 6 p.m. Veterans Day recognition banquet, American Legion Post 17 ($12). Call 785-776-4556 for reservations. Jim Sharp is keynote speaker.
The military parade procession pauses for a salute at the Riley County Armed Forces Memorial, where bricks are placed before both Memorial Day and Veterans Day. The cost of a brick is $75, and may be purchased at the Riley County clerk’s office.
Military memorabilia is on display in downtown store fronts, and the Senior Center (open 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.) at 412 Leavenworth also features more military displays. A panel display at Town Center Mall will depict 10 major military operations.
The Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce is honored to maintain an ongoing relationship
specifically with Fort Riley and the military community. The Chamber Military Relations Committee meets 10 times annually, and meetings are open to the public. The MRC vows to increase awareness of the Fort Riley community's importance to Manhattan, and to support soldiers and families by showcasing a military-inclusive community.