Veterans Day is an opportunity for all of us to take the time to remember all of those who have served. The day allows us to reflect and pay tribute to those who protect us, and while this should be a more common occurrence, it’s important to honor that sacrifice. Metro Detroit knows that and has numerous events throughout the Veterans Day weekend that supports veterans with parades, events, and shows.
Salute to Veterans: Virtual Run, Walk, Wheel (Nov. 4-18)
Michigan Paralyzed Veterans of America (MPVA) has been around since 1961, helping veterans with disabilities and their families to provide the best quality of life possible. In honor of Veterans Day, MPVA is hosted a Virtual Run, Walk, Wheel event to raise money for the organization.
With a $40 entry fee, participants can sign up for a 1 mile, 5K or 10K race that they can then run, walk, wheel, jog and complete however and wherever they choose. Participants will receive a medal and the satisfaction of supporting a great, local veterans organization. The Metropolitan Detroit Veterans Coalition (MDVC) normally puts together the Detroit Veterans Day Parade every year, but due to COVID-19, the organization has opted for a virtual event. There will be a broadcast/livestream happening Sunday, November 8 that will include an opening ceremony featuring MDVC’s “Veteran of Honor” as well as female veterans that will be “telling the story of women in the Armed Services.” Veterans are invited to be featured in the “Veterans Honor Roll” segment of the broadcast/livestream by submitting a photo of themselves (alone or with their group/service unit). Submitted photos will be shown after the opening ceremony with names called out on the live show. Axe Venture in Ann Arbor is holding a Veterans Day special by providing all veterans the opportunity to throw axes for free. The special rate is from 5:30-7:30 p.m. and is open to all veterans. Pizza will also be provided for free. The Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency, Macomb County Veteran Services, Walking with Warriors and the Pontiac & Macomb Vet Centers will be providing veterans and National Guard/Reserve members with a free care package that includes $40 worth of items as well as handwritten thank you notes from students across the United States. There will also be food boxes and frozen turkeys available. Veterans and their families can get a free flu shot as well from Genoa Healthcare. In accordance with COVID-19 precautions, the entire event will be a contact-free, drive-through event. Participants must register prior to arrival and bring proof of service.
2020 Armed Services Salute (Nov. 8)
Veterans Day Ax Throwing (Nov. 11)
Operation Veteran Care Package – Macomb (Nov. 14)