Honoring the Brave
Veterans Day events in Ohio remind us of courage, sacrifice, and service. Every November 11, Americans pause to honor those who’ve stood for freedom and protected the values we hold dear.
Across the country and throughout Ohio, towns and cities pay tribute in heartfelt ways. Flags line the streets, schools hold assemblies, and communities gather at local memorials. You can feel the appreciation everywhere—from a simple handshake to a quiet salute.
In small towns, parades march down Main Street. Kids wave handmade signs while veterans stand tall, medals gleaming in the cool November air. Across major cities, ceremonies unite people from all walks of life to honor those who served. Every story reminds us that bravery shows up in countless ways.
A Brief Look Back On the Day
This special day traces its roots to the end of World War I. On November 11, 1918, an armistice brought fighting to an end between the Allies and Germany. The following year, Americans marked the date as Armistice Day—a time to honor those who served in what was then called “the war to end all wars.”
After World War II and the Korean War, President Dwight D. Eisenhower officially changed the name to Veterans Day in 1954. The purpose grew to honor all who have served, past and present, in every branch of the U.S. Armed Forces. Today, it stands as a reminder that freedom endures because of their courage.
But the meaning of the day isn’t only about the past—it’s about the present and future too. Many veterans continue to serve in new ways, guiding youth, volunteering, and leading in their communities. Their strength doesn’t fade when the uniform comes off. It becomes part of everyday life, teaching others about honor and resilience.
Take a moment this November to do something meaningful. Attend a ceremony. Send a note of thanks. Listen to a veteran’s story. These small gestures mean more than you might realize.
As the sun sets and the flags ripple in the evening breeze, remember this—our veterans’ courage continues to shape our nation every single day.
Veterans Day Celebrations Across Ohio
- Cleveland Veterans Day Parade & Celebration – Parade at 12:30 p.m. followed by a community celebration from 1–4 p.m. at Skylight Park, Tower City.
- Mentor Veterans Day Ceremony – Held at 11:11 a.m. at the Mentor Municipal Cemetery with Brigadier General Peter Collins, USMC (Ret.), as keynote speaker.
- Columbus Veterans Day Rally – Free event on November 9 from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the National Veterans Memorial and Museum, featuring entertainment, food, and vendors.
- Columbus Veterans Day Ceremony – November 11 at 11 a.m., with actor Matthew Modine as keynote speaker at the National Veterans Memorial and Museum.
- MAPS Air Museum Veterans Celebration XIII – November 8 at 4:30 p.m. to honor Vietnam veterans; tickets are $25.
- Findlay Veterans Day Parade & Ceremony – November 10 at 2:00 p.m. on Main Street downtown.
- Canal Winchester Veterans March & Ceremony – November 8, hosted by the City of Canal Winchester and VFW Post 10523.
- Blue Ash Veterans Day Ceremony – November 11 at the Blue Ash Recreation Center, marking its 33rd annual celebration.
- Dublin Veterans Day Ceremony – November 11 at 11:00 a.m. at the Grounds of Remembrance, Dublin Veterans Park.
- Zanesville Veterans Day Parade – November 8 at 11 a.m., beginning at Secrest Auditorium.
