The Kiwanis Club of Gig Harbor is proud to host the ninth annual Gig Harbor Veterans Day celebration—a heartfelt tradition that continues to bring the community together in gratitude and remembrance. This year’s event carries special meaning as it commemorates the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence while also honoring the heroes remembered in the 9/11 commemoration.

The celebration will take place at the Gig Harbor Vintage Aero Museum, where history and patriotism meet beneath the wings of restored planes. Guests will enjoy a full Military program featuring speakers, musical performances, skits, and to honor 9/11, an 8 bell salute—a sound that resonates with pride and reflection.

The event began nine years ago when local residents Jill Guernsey and Pat Schmidt joined forces with veteran community volunteers to create an event to honor and remember our veterans.

“It has been an honor to create this event and to share an experience that is truly special,” Guernsey reflects. The first ceremony was held at Ocean5 in Gig Harbor and since then, the tradition has grown into one of the city’s most cherished gatherings.  This celebration is now the largest indoor Veterans Day event in the State of Washington.

Even during the pandemic, organizers ensured the celebration continued. The event was held outdoors and streamed live online, with attendees tuning in from their cars as live music and speakers filled the air. The sight of families waving flags through open windows became a symbol of resilience and unity.

Each year, the program features a new theme designed to educate and inspire. This year’s ceremony will include a skit from the Daughters of the American Revolution, a guest performance from “George Washington” and a Discussion of the Preamble from the Constitution. Local veteran Joe Loya who along with Pat Schmidt, Co-chair this event, recalls, “Hearing the music and seeing the pride on the faces of our veterans is deeply moving and remarkable. This is why we do this.”

The community is invited to attend On November 11 from 12 to 2 p.m. Admission is free for veterans, active‑duty service members, and first responders, while general tickets are $15. Guests will enjoy a classic American lunch of hot dogs, potato salad, baked beans and apple pie—a team effort in including the NJROTC and Kiwanis who will be serving more than 500 people.

Tickets and registration are available at gigharborveteransday.com.

To honor a veteran who has passed, families may submit the veteran name, photo and rank for inclusion in a memorial slide show at the Veterans Day event. In addition, to receive information about hanging a custom Veteran Banner on the flag poles downtown, please email gigharborveteransday@gmail.com or go to http://gigharborkiwanis.org.

vintageaeromuseum.org