Veterans Day offers the opportunity for members of the community and students to honor and express gratitude to local veterans.  

First celebrated as Armistice Day, the day marked the end of World War I, which came in 1918 on the “11th hour, of the 11th day, of the 11th month.” The holiday has evolved from commemorating the end of World War I to honor all veterans.   

There are several special events happening in the Flathead Valley to mark Veterans Day on Tuesday, Nov. 11.   

Kalispell’s annual Veterans Day ceremony will commence at 11 a.m. at Depot Park downtown, beginning with the playing of patriotic music.  There will be a flag raising conducted by the United Veterans of the Flathead Valley, followed by a welcome and the Pledge of Allegiance and then an opening prayer.   

At 11:16 a.m. the Veterans Day address will be given by Ryan Schwegel, then the National Anthem will be sung, with the Honor Guard ceremony at the playing of “Taps” by the United Veterans. The closing prayer will then be said with closing remarks and singing of “God Bless the USA.  

The VFW Post 2252 will host a luncheon and refreshments at noon at 330 First Ave. W. in Kalispell.  

Stillwater Christian School in Kalispell will hold a Veterans Day assembly at 2 p.m. 

Peterson Elementary School in Kalispell holds a Veterans Day celebration. Pastries and coffee will be served at 8 a.m. and a ceremony begins at 8:45 a.m. Guest speaker will be  Master Chief Thomas R. Countryman.   

Flathead High School holds a Veterans Day assembly paying tribute to veterans at 8:30 a.m. at the school.   

Columbia Falls High School holds a Veterans Day assembly at 10:25 a.m. in the high school gym.   

Whitefish High School will host a Veterans Day community event at 10:10 a.m. in the school’s gym.  

A Veterans Day assembly takes place at Bigfork High School at 10 a.m.