4 Ways To Observe Veterans Day In Aurora

AURORA, IL — Veterans Day is coming up on Tuesday, Nov. 11, with several opportunities around Aurora to honor those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces, both in times of war and peace.

Originally called Armistice Day, Veterans Day is always observed on Nov. 11 to reflect the signing of the armistice ending World War I at 11 a.m. on the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918. The observance was changed to Veterans Day in 1954 to include veterans who served in World War II and the Korean War.

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Here are some upcoming Veterans Day events to know about:

City of Aurora Veterans Day Procession: The procession will step off at the corner of Water Street and Downer Place at 10:15 a.m. Nov. 11. Participants will march west on Downer Place and conclude in front of the Grand Army of the Republic Military Museum, where the "Serving Our Country and Community" ceremony will take place. The event at the museum will include a military rifle salute by veteran organizations at 11 a.m.

West Aurora High School Veterans Day Assembly: The school will hold its annual assembly honoring veterans on Nov. 7. The event will take place from 7:40-9:50 a.m. in the main gym. All veterans and current military personnel are invited to attend.

Veterans Day distribution by Aurora Area Interfaith Food Pantry: The pantry will host a special drive-thru food distribution for veterans and their families from 10 a.m. to noon Nov. 8 at 1110 Jericho Road. Pre-made boxes of food will be available for the first 150 cars. Organizations will be on-site to connect veterans with area resources.

Lunch with Amvets Post 103: Veterans and active military personnel can visit Amvets Post 103 for a free lunch from noon to 2 p.m. Nov. 11 at 1194 Jericho Road. Non-veterans are also welcome to attend; lunch will cost $10 for adults and $6 for children ages 12 and under.

The post office and most banks will be closed in Aurora on Thursday in observance of Veterans Day, a federal holiday that honors veterans of the U.S. armed forces.