Manhattan loves the military and loves to recognize veterans, and the Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to play a part annually in that effort.
This is Veteran's Day Week as activities are planned to recognize those that have served our country. Of course the highlight of the week is the Veteran Day Honor Parade, set for Friday down Poyntz Avenue. We believe this parade to be the largest Veteran's Day Parade in the State of Kansas. This year's theme is Honoring Vietnam Veterans. After the parade there is a ceremony of honor at Peace Memorial Auditorium with a special speaker, Col. (Ret) Leroy Stutz, a Vietnam veteran and former prisoner of war.
For more information, go to www.flinthillsveterans.org.
Additionally on Friday, there will be a breakfast presented by BriggsAuto.com at American Legion Hall Post 11 which is free for veterans. We are also excited to work with the Little Apple Brigade on their annual Military Ball Saturday night.
The last item I want to mention is a new project this year, Operation Green Light for Veterans. This week, green lights will be installed and displayed along Poyntz Avenue in downtown Manhattan in support of military veterans and their families. The Operation Green Light display will last one week and is part of a national collaboration to support military veterans.
The project was brought to the attention of local military supporters from Riley County Commissioner John Ford as the Operation Green Light is spearheaded by the National Association of Counties and the National County Veteran Service Officers. It is designed to raise awareness about unique challenges facing veterans and the resources available to them and their families.
The Operation Green Light display in Downtown Manhattan is made possible through support and collaboration from American Legion Pearce-Keller Post No. 17, City of Manhattan, Downtown Manhattan, Inc., Flint Hills Veterans Coalition, Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce Military Relations Committee, Riley County, and VFW Post 1786 of Manhattan Kansas.
Hopefully you can participate in one of the great activities, but please take a moment to thank veterans for all they have sacrificed on behalf of our country.