Gaithersburg Veterans Day Observance Honors Military Personnel

GAITHERSBURG, MD — The city of Gaithersburg will hold its annual Veterans Day Observance on Friday, Nov. 11, to honor and recognize all U.S. military personnel. The observance takes place at 11 a.m. at the City Hall Concert Pavilion, 31 S. Summit Ave. in Gaithersburg.

The patriotic ceremony will include words and music to commemorate the occasion, followed by a wreath-laying ceremony. City officials and members of local veterans groups will be on hand to honor those who have served in all branches of the military.

According to a news release, the ceremony will begin with a presentation of colors. Junior Mayor Loriele Nix will lead the pledge of allegiance and 2020 Young Artist Award winner Chloe Jackson will sing the national anthem. The Gaithersburg High School Jazz Ensemble will perform patriotic music, and Gaithersburg High School Band member Marli Banner will play “Taps.” A reception with refreshments will immediately follow the ceremony in the City Hall Gallery.

Joining the observance will be special guest speaker Col. Jeff Marquez, United States Army (retired). He retired after serving 30 years in the Army, culminating at the National Security Council as senior director for response policy (acting) and director for continuity policy. Having served overseas and stateside, from the Pentagon and combat zones to the White House, Col. Marquez now uses his skills and experience to help leaders and organizations be better. During his years of service, Colonel Marquez held leadership and staff assignments in the field artillery and led organizations in Army Major Commands, Army Staff, Joint Commands, and at the White House.

To support homeless veterans in Montgomery County, the Montgomery County Coalition for the Homeless provides emergency shelter through the Safe Haven Program to an average of 75 veterans each year. MCCH’s Operation Homecoming Programs provides homeless veterans safe, stable and affordable housing.

Donations, including food, toiletries and cleaning supplies, are being collected to assist veterans with their move. A complete list is available here. To secure a Move in Kit for veterans exiting the shelter into a home take the MCCH 30X30 Challenge.

Donations can be dropped off during the Veterans Day Observance. Monetary donations are also being accepted. Make checks payable to the Montgomery County Coalition for the Homeless or donate online here. To arrange drop off of items, e-mail volunteer@mcch.net.

The Veterans Day observance is sponsored by Operation Second Chance and Simply Fresh Catering.

In honor of Veterans Day, the Gaithersburg Arts Barn is hosting Improbable Comedy, a stand-up comedy show featuring military comics and veterans. The show takes place on Friday, Nov. 11 at 8 p.m. at the Arts Barn. This show is recommended for ages 15 and older. Purchase tickets online here.

For more information on Gaithersburg’s Veterans Day observance, call 301-258-6350 or visit the City’s website at www.gaithersburgmd.gov.