Veterans Day observance at 45th Infantry Division Museum begins at 10 a.m. Friday

By Patrick B. McGuigan
Executive Editor


A variety of local activities honoring U.S. military veterans continue through tomorrow’s official observance of the holiday that originated as “Armistice Day” (the 11th hour of the 11th day, in the 11th month, the 2011 year) at the end of the First World War.


Leading the way is the 45th Infantry Division Museum’s 35th annual ceremony beginning at 10 a.m. tomorrow (Friday), at 2145 N.E. 36 St.). The Oklahoma City Zoo, open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., offers free admission to all active duty, active reserves and retirees of the U.S. Military, with up to five guests. The City of Norman is hosting a parade that begins at 9 a.m.


Events already held include the Knights of Columbus Chief Justice Kane Assembly’s Veterans dinner, where Rear Admiral Greg Slavonic, USN (ret.) delivered a passionate tribute to veterans of all modern conflicts. Slavonic gave special words of thanks to the modern all-volunteer force.


Slavonic hailed comrades from Vietnam and Desert Storm, as well as those in Korea. In his speech, Slavonic pointed out two attending veterans from “the Greatest Generation,” who served in the Second World War. The Veterans Dinner was held at the Connor Center, Our Lady’s Cathedral. Presentation of the colors came from the Junior ROTC unit from Northwest Classen High School.


Another notable event was Women Veterans Recognition Day, October 29 at the Embassy Suites on Meridian Avenue. Speakers included Maj. Gen. Rita Aragon, USAF (ret.), the first woman to serve as Oklahoma’s Cabinet Secretary for Veterans Affairs.