Two Events to Honor Veterans this Week

Heart of America Stand Down for Veterans.

Do you know a homeless Veteran? Someone who has served our country with honor but has struggled after returning home?

Please urge them to come to the Heart of America Stand Down on November 6. Homeless and at risk Veterans in Kansas City receive clothing, shoes and boots, toiletries, haircuts, ongoing community services (including housing, educational, employment, and medical assistance) from more than 100 organizations, and a hot lunch.

Since 1993, the event — run entirely by volunteers — has helped hundreds of homeless Veterans get back on their feet. This fall the Stand Down will be at Memorial Hall, 600 N. 7th Street, Kansas City, Kansas.

Veterans need: – shaving cream – deodorant – men’s t shirts and underwear (especially L to 2XL) – women’s bras and underwear (especially L to 2XL) – men’s blue jeans, new or used (especially L to 2XL) – men’s and women’s sweatshirts, hoodies, and winter hats (especially L to 2XL) – men’s boots (especially sizes 11-12) – children’s clothing/shoes/boots – all sizes and items – fruit, drink mixes, juice, snack foods (granola bars, chips, etc.), coffee creamer, sugar, disposable cups, plates, utensils, and towels/napkins

In-kind and cash donations are welcomed. All donations are tax deductible.

Free Veterans Day Tribute November 8 at Truman Library

You’re invited for a spectacular salute to America’s veterans at the Fourth Annual Ike Skelton Veterans Day Ceremony at the Harry S. Truman Library and Museum. This annual event is co-presented by Truman Library Institute, Harry S. Truman Library and Museum, City of Independence, and the Independence Pioneers Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution. Museum admission and all events are offered to the public free of charge. The public is invited to honor America’s heroes.

FREE EVENTS & EXHIBITS FOR ALL AGES 12 – 5 pm Free Museum Admission, including exhibits by local veterans 12 – 3 pm “Thank our Heroes” – Make a Card for a Veteran (Museum Lobby) Free Chow Line (East Atrium) Military Vehicle Display by the Missouri National Guard (Front Drive) 12:30 p.m. Opening Ceremony (Front Portico): Remarks by Truman Library Director Kurt Graham Proclamation by Independence Mayor Eileen Weir “The Star-Spangled Banner,” performed by the National Anthem Girl, Janine Stange who made history last year singing the national anthem in all 50 states. Her mission: to honor our nation’s heroes. Her message: “America is beautiful. Americans are beautiful.” 1:00 p.m. Flyover by the Heart of America Commemorative Air Force 2 – 2:30 p.m. Performance by the Star Spangled Betties (Francis Families Theater) The breath-taking vocals of this costumed a cappella trio will take you on a sentimental journey back to 1945 with WWII hits like “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy” and more 3 – 3:45 p.m. Program and Keynote Address by Joseph L. Galloway, Author New York Times best-seller, We Were Soldiers Once…and Young, his detailed account of the Vietnam War while embedded with the Command Unit of the 1st Cavalry Division. This book served as the basis for a 2002 film starring Mel Gibson, We Were Soldiers.

4 p.m. Presidential Salute and Wreath Laying Ceremony (Courtyard): A bagpipe leads the way for an unforgettable ceremony at the grave of President Harry S. Truman, including a wreath laying ceremony, 21-gun salute and the playing of Taps. William Chrisman High School singers will accompany the National Anthem Girl, Janine Stange, in the singing of the national anthem.