Aviation Museum marks World War I Armistice and Honors Military

One hundred years ago, World War I ended on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918. The public is invited to help commemorate the armistice for World War I on Sunday, November 11, 2018 by making a remembrance poppy and celebrating all our veterans with cake! Cake cutting at 11 am is first- come, first-served. Poppy making will be available throughout the day.

As part of M-NCPPC’s Military Appreciation Week, the College Park Aviation Museum is offering FREE admission to active duty and retired service members and up to 4 family members. Military Appreciation Week runs through Monday, November 12, 2018.

Why the red poppy? Red poppies grow wild in many fields in Northern France and Belgium where some of World War I’s most deadliest battles occurred. As a result of new technology – including airplanes – WWI resulted in a shocking death toll with more than 9 million soldiers dying. The red poppy is known for being able to grow, even in the most difficult circumstances, yet the flower itself is quite fragile – a fitting symbol of hope and remembrance for those who served and lost their lives. The poem In Flanders Field written by John McCrae in 1915 brought attention to the red poppy as a symbol of anyone lost in war.

After making their poppies, visitors are encouraged to explore the museum exhibits, including Over Here & Over There: College Park during World War I, and get started on holiday shopping in the museum store. Parking is free and the museum is walkable from the College Park – UMD Metro station. The museum is open daily from 10 am – 5 pm.

For more information, call 301-864-6029 or visit us at www.CollegeParkAviationMuseum.com.