The City of Wildwood is set to pay tribute to its veterans with a poignant event scheduled for Thursday, Nov. 7, according to details shared by the city's official website. Titled "Salute to Our Veterans," this ceremony is slated to begin promptly at 8:30 a.m. in front of City Hall, located at 16860 Main Street, Wildwood, MO 63040. This early morning salute to the city's veterans comes right on the heels of the regular "Coffee with the Mayor" event, extending an opportunity for community members to engage with their local government and honor the service of veterans.
Mayor Joe Garritano is expected to address the audience with words of gratitude for veterans both local and from afar, reflecting on their sacrifices for the country. In a display of respect,, the city will lower its flags to half-staff after Garritano's remarks, a gesture to be observed throughout the Veterans Day weekend. Per the City of Wildwood announcement, flags will return to full staff at dawn on Veterans Day, Nov. 11, symbolically wrapping up the weekend's tributes.
In addition to speeches and flag ceremonies, the event boasts complimentary refreshments including coffee and bagels for those attending. Furthermore, a specially designated area will showcase the City’s Hometown Heroes Program, an initiative known for displaying banners along Manchester Road to honor local veterans. As a token of appreciation, veterans present at the event will also receive a special gift.
Veterans Day stands as a solemn day of remembrance for those who've served, with efforts made to ensure that their stories of courage and dedication to freedom are passed down to the next generations. "We invite all residents, veterans, and their families to join us for this meaningful event," the City of Wildwood statement reads, stressing the importance of communal participation. Information about Wildwood's veteran programs and additional resources available to veterans can be found by following the provided links.
For those looking to play a more active role, or organizations wanting to collaborate, the city encourages reaching out. Interested parties are asked to contact Melanie Rippetoe, the City's Assistant Director of Planning and Parks, via email at [email protected]. Furthermore, residents interested in honoring a specific veteran with a banner for the next year can learn more or register through the Hometown Hero Banner Program by clicking a link shared by the city.
