Honoring Our Heroes: A Guide to Veterans Day Activities in Little Rock

Every year, on November 11th, the nation comes together to honor and celebrate the brave men and women who have served in the armed forces. In Little Rock, there are several touching and meaningful ways to commemorate Veterans Day. Here's a guide to some of the best activities and events happening in the city to pay tribute to our veterans.

1. Visit the Vietnam Veterans Memorial on the State Capitol Grounds:

Located on the State Capitol Grounds in Little Rock, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial is a moving tribute to Arkansans who served in the Vietnam War. This memorial is inscribed with the names of those who lost their lives during this conflict. While you're there, take a moment to explore other monuments on the Capitol grounds, such as the Monument to Confederate Soldiers, Bauxite Boulder, Granite Centennial Boulder, Confederate War Prisoners Memorial, Law Enforcement Officers Memorial, Arkansas Medal of Honor Memorial, Memorial Fountain, and Monument to Confederate Women.

2. Attend "Corvettes and Veterans" at War Memorial Stadium:

"Corvettes and Veterans" is a remarkable community event taking place this Veterans Day to honor all veterans. It also commemorates the 75th Anniversary of War Memorial Stadium. This celebration includes a procession parade of custom military-styled Corvettes, an official salute and ceremony honoring veterans and their families, performances by High School Junior ROTC teams, and historical military displays from Camp Joseph T. Robinson. This event promises to be family-friendly and will offer various educational and historical displays, as well as food and refreshment options.

3. Take Little Rock's Military History Tour:

Little Rock is a city that values its military history. Explore the monuments, memorials, and museums dedicated to those who have served our country. The tour includes stops at various sites related to the Army, Air Force, National Guard, and Navy, ensuring that America's military history will never be forgotten in this city.

4. Explore Jacksonville Museum of Military History:

This museum offers a unique perspective on military history, with exhibits and displays focusing on the Civil War campaigns of the Trans-Mississippi, World War II, and the history of the Little Rock Air Force Base. You'll find an impressive collection of WWII patriotic and propaganda posters, a Titan II missile launch console, and a T37 cockpit trainer. The Jacksonville Museum hosts annual events like Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day and is available for private retirement and reunion events.

An exhibit at the MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military History in Little Rock.

5. Roam Around MacArthur Museum of Arkansas Military History:

Situated in the historic Arsenal Building, this museum is one of Little Rock's oldest surviving structures. It has witnessed crucial moments in American history, including exchanges between Federal and Confederate forces during the Civil War. The museum is dedicated to preserving the sacrifice and service of soldiers through exhibits and programming.

6. Join the Irreverent Warriors Silkies Hike:

The Irreverent Warriors Silkies Hike is a therapeutic event designed for veterans, active duty, National Guard, and reservists. These hikes aim to prevent veteran suicide by bringing veterans together through humor and camaraderie. The event includes a procession through both Little Rock and North Little Rock, providing opportunities for fellowship and reflection.

7. Pay Your Respects at the Little Rock National Cemetery:

The Little Rock National Cemetery is a place of remembrance and reflection. Among the notable monuments is the Minnesota Monument, which honors soldiers who fell in Arkansas during the Civil War, and the marble Confederate Monument, erected in honor of 640 Confederate soldiers originally buried in Mount Holly Cemetery. Both monuments are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The Arkansas State Capitol at sunset in Little Rock, AR.

8. Check Out the Arkansas State Capitol:

The Arkansas State Capitol building is a historical treasure in itself. Designed in the Neo-classical style, it has been featured in movies as a stand-in for the US Capitol. The Vietnam Veterans Memorial is also located on the Capitol grounds, serving as a lasting tribute to Arkansans who served during the Vietnam War. Additionally, the Gold Star Families Memorial is a poignant monument dedicated to the families and relatives who have lost loved ones in defense of freedom.

On this Veterans Day, let's come together as a community to honor and celebrate the veterans who have given so much for our country. Little Rock provides numerous opportunities to pay your respects and reflect on the sacrifices made by these brave men and women. Whether you're visiting a memorial, attending an event, or taking a historical tour, remember to take a moment to express your gratitude to the heroes who have served our nation.