Coinciding with what was formerly called Armistice Day to mark the end of World War I, communities around the nation celebrate on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month.

Escanaba’s event, organized by the Delta County Veterans Council in conjunction with the Vet Center and the Upper Peninsula Military Museum, is centered around an honor ceremony beginning at 11 a.m. in the Upper Peninsula Military Museum, housed in the west section of the Chamber of Commerce building at 1001 N. Lincoln Road.

The ceremony will begin with opening remarks by emcee Craig Woerpel, followed by the singing of the national anthem, a reading to recognize the POW/MIA table, introductions and announcements of the military and private organizations in attendance. 

Retired Army Major Kendal Kettel is this year’s guest speaker. After his speech, a drum ceremony from Escanaba High School students in the Indian Education program — who also played last year — will honor all veterans.

Steve Kwarciany, an Air Force veteran and commander of the Delta County Veterans Council, speaks during last year's Veterans Day ceremony at the Delta Chamber of Commerce. (Daily Press file photo)

“Due to many requests from the veterans, they have been asked to sing more than one honor song. This year they have been given a special song from the Bay Mills Drum group to honor women veterans, which is something very special,” said Mary Penet, who helpe organize and promote the event.

The ceremony will conclude with the ringing of a bell to commemorate all those lost at sea, a 21-gun salute by AMVETS Post 123 of Escanaba, the playing of “Taps” and a closing prayer.  

Coffee, doughnuts, cupcakes and other snacks will be available.

“It is open to the public, and we encourage our community to join us to celebrate the lives of all who have served in our U.S. Armed Forces,” said Commander Steven Kwarciany of the Delta County Veterans Council.

“Other events are going on at the same time in other communities across our county, and (we) hope that people will take the time to attend any of them no matter where they live,” Kwarciany said.

The table for one is often set at veterans ceremonies for those who died in service. The white cloth symbolizes pure intentions; a red rose, bloodshed; a slice of lemon, the bitter fate of POW/MIAs; salt for fallen tears; a candle for hope; and the upside-down glass that those who have been lost cannot drink. (R. R. Branstrom | Daily Press file photo)

Also on Veterans Day:

— American Legion Post 115 Escanaba River will serve a lunch at an 11 a.m. meeting at the school in Arnold, 38299 County 426 M.5 Roadd.

— All veterans and their families are invited to a free Veterans Day Italian dinner from 4 to 7 p.m. Tuesday at the August Mattson American Legion Post 71, 802 Delta Ave. in Gladstone. Widows are also invited. There will be gifts and surprises.

Housebound veterans in the city of Gladstone can call 906-428-1050 to request a home delivery.

— Area schools are hosting presentations to inform the youth about why Americans celebrate Veterans Day.