Veterans Day approaches. Time to think of those who served honorably for country

Friday, November 2, 2018 - 9:34am By Scott Holwell, Veterans Resources

Scott Holwell

Veterans Day, November 11th, is set aside to thank and honor all men and women who served honorably in the military. In fact, Veterans Day is largely intended to thank living Veterans for their service, to acknowledge that their contributions to our national security are appreciated, and to underscore the fact that all those who served – not only those who died – have sacrificed and done their duty.

Additionally, this year marks the 100th anniversary of the initial cease-fire agreement from WW1. As we salute America’s heroes on Veterans Day, there are many activities in which the community is encouraged to participate. On Veterans Day, Sunday, November 11th, the Hanford Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5869 will host the Fifth Annual Veterans Festival at the Hanford Civic Park. The Festival starts at 10:00 and runs until 4:30 pm. There will be music, food, raffles throughout the day, motorcycle and car clubs, bounce houses, drill team competition, and numerous other family-oriented activities. Admission and parking are free.

On the observed Veterans Day, Monday, November 12th, American Legion Post 3, Hanford is also conducting a Veterans Day Commemoration themed, “Honoring Military Chaplains,” at the Hanford Cemetery “Tank” at 10:30 am, featuring Active-duty, U.S. Navy Chaplain, Commander Carl Rhoads as guest speaker. For more information call 583-1169.

To finish up the day, the City of Lemoore and American Legion Post 100, Lemoore are hosting the 5th Annual Veterans Day Parade in downtown Lemoore at 6:00 pm. Participation in the parade is free, as long as the entrant maintains a patriotic theme. For more information contact Rick Plummer: 559-924-9227; Bill Overby: 559-639-3934 or Lemoore Parks and Recreation at (559) 924-6767.

The Kings County Veterans Service Office can complete the DMV Veteran Status Verification Form for the new California Veteran Designation on your driver’s license and also issues Veteran I.D. cards to honorably discharged veterans. Contact Scott Holwell if you would like to receive periodic veteran’s information by email. There are many state and federal benefits and programs available to veterans and their dependents. To determine if you are eligible for any of these benefits, call or visit our office. We can and will assist you in completing all required application forms. You can get information on the Web from the Kings County Veterans Service Office webpage at www.countyofkings.com/vets.

Scott Holwell, retired Navy Master Chief Petty Officer, is the Veterans Service Officer for Kings County. Send your questions to the Veterans Service Office, 1400 W. Lacey Blvd, Hanford, CA 93230; call (559)852-2669; or e-mail scott.holwell@co.kings.ca.us.