Camp Nelson is widely known for the celebrations and recognitions given to veterans at times of remembrance. This year’s Veterans Day will be yet another example. Veterans Day 2017 marks a special milestone in the history of the United States.

This is the 100th anniversary of America’s involvement in World War I, and our introduction as a world power. This special day, originally known as Armistice Day, Nov. 11, 1918, is celebrated in other countries to mark the anniversary of the end of World War I — which occurred on the 11th hour on the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918.

In 1954, the nation re-designated this holiday as Veterans Day to honor all of its military veterans for their service.Over the last 100 years, men and women from across the nation have served in the country’s Armed Forces.

These veterans came from all walks of life, and after their service often returned to their hometowns to pickup their civilian careers. In many of these professions, veterans continue to serve our nation, state and local governments.

Saturday, Nov. 11, the Central Kentucky Veterans Committee will be hosting a Veterans Day ceremony at Camp Nelson National Cemetery at 11 a.m. at the flag pole. Col. Steve Parker (USAF Ret.), Commissioner of the Kentucky Department of Aviation, will be the keynote speaker. The ceremony will include cannon salutes from the KYARNG and a rifle salute from American Legion Post #18. It will also include vocal performances from various artists, as well as patriotic music from the West Jessamine High School Band.

Other special events will include a wreath laying ceremony, a Vietnam War commemoration and a Gold Star Family thank you. The event will conclude with the playing of Taps by American Legion Post #63.

The Central Kentucky Veterans Committee is a team of dedicated committee members from all walks of life and many different talents. The CKVC’s mission is to honor our fallen and living veterans, as well as their families with ceremonies recognizing their military service.

The CKVC annually organizes and conducts the Memorial and Veterans Day ceremonies at Camp Nelson National Cemetery.

The CKVC is honored to have volunteers from local businesses, community and military/veterans organizations assist in each mission. Their time and talents are critical to the success of each event at Camp Nelson.

Freedom did not happen by accident, and this is our way to give back. It is an honor to do so.

For additional information, contact CKVC Public Affairs Officer, Col. Pete Evans (US Army, Ret.) at 301-751- 8095 or evansph1@juno.com. Camp Nelson is located at 6980 Danville Rd. south of Nicholasville.