Clarksville, Tennessee is a community that appreciates veterans. The city borders the Fort Campbell Army Post, so appreciating military service is simply the way of life for both residents and businesses. Beyond the ingrained respect that happens daily, this community publicly shows its support annually–in a big way–with a five-day Welcome Home Veterans Celebration.
In 2018, Clarksville will host its fourth annual Welcome Home Veterans Celebration September 12-16. Multiple activities will take place to celebrate and honor veterans, with an emphasis on Vietnam veterans.
“The Clarksville-Montgomery County community recognizes and honors veterans all year long,” said Visit Clarksville Chairman Tom Kane. “But, this event is a special opportunity to come together and collectively show our support and appreciation for veterans in meaningful ways. We hope that everyone will participate and express their gratitude to our servicemen and women.”
Activities
Remembering Our Fallen. This photographic exhibit is designed to remind Americans of the ultimate sacrifice made by those who died from wounds suffered in Iraq and Afghanistan while wearing our country’s uniform since 9/11/2001. The memorial includes 30 Tribute Towers, which were unveiled nationally at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. on Thursday, September 7, 2017.
American Traveling Tribute Wall at Beachaven Vineyards and Winery. The American Veterans Traveling Tribute (AVTT) presents the Traveling Wall, an 80 percent scale version of the Vietnam Memorial Wall in Washington, DC. Across its 360-foot length, the wall contains the names of every name that is etched on the original monument. At its apex, the memorial is an impressive eight feet tall.
Field of Honor — Veterans Tribute flag display is part of a nationally recognized community program that pays tribute to the strength and unity of Americans and honors veterans who served our nation to preserve our security and freedoms.
A Hero Breakfast on Thursday, September 13 will pair JROTC cadets, veterans, and active duty soldiers. This event is free for veterans, but reservations are required.
A Wreath Laying and Massing of the Colors will take place at the Wall on Thursday, September 13.
A Remembrance Ceremony is a free public ceremony the evening of September 13 that includes music, speakers and a time of remembrance.
A Valor Luncheon will be held on Friday, September 14 with keynote speaker Edgar Harrell, one of two remaining Marines from the USS Indianapolis that was torpedoed by a Japanese submarine in 1945.
The Valor Run Half Marathon and 5K will be held Saturday morning, September 15, beginning and ending at Beachaven Winery. See details or register at valorrunclarksville.wordpress.com/.
Welcome Home Parade is Saturday, September 15 at 10:00a.m. in historic downtown Clarksville. Veterans should register to participate in the parade at www.welcomehomeveteranscelebration.com. Applications are also available for floats and other parade participants.
Lee Greenwood will be performing a free concert at Beachaven Winery on Saturday, September 15 at 7:00pm.
AARP members can receive an 18 percent discount on all ticketed events with the code
WELCOME50.