REXBURG — Veterans Day is Nov. 11, but it is being celebrated across the country on Nov. 10, including here in Rexburg.
In accordance with this day of remembrance, the Rexburg Chamber of Commerce is hosting its annual Veterans Day celebration.
According to Janalyn Holt, the CEO of the Chamber, the theme for this year’s celebration is “Our Finest Heroes.” The theme comes from a quote from former United States President Jimmy Carter several years ago.
“In honoring those who answered the call of duty, we do not honor war, but we honor the peace they sought, the freedoms that they fought to preserve and the hope that they held out to a world that's still struggling to learn how to settle differences among people and among nations without resorting to violence,” Carter said.
The event will also focus on remembering the end of the Vietnam War.
“2023 marks 50 years when the Vietnam War ended,” Holt said. “In fact, in April of 1973, North Vietnam returned 591 American prisoners of war, including in that was future US senator and presidential candidate John McCain.”
Other highlights of the event will include a commemorative photo with all of the veterans in attendance, as well as the playing of each military branch’s theme song. There will also be several large wreaths, that were purchased by local businesses, on display. Following the event, these “honor wreaths” will be taken to Smith Park for the community to enjoy throughout the holiday season.
Holt says that this is a great place to start, but that people should honor those who have fought for our freedoms every day.
“We all have heroes that have fought for our country and that we appreciate,” Holt said. “Anytime we see somebody representing something that contributes to the peace of our world and appreciation for our veterans, invite them to this ceremony. If they can’t drive, offer to take them. This is our moment to spotlight them and to really be grateful.”
The festivities begin today at 10 a.m. at the Madison High School gymnasium. For more information, go to www.rexburgchamber.org.