November 11, 1918 is generally recognized at the end of the "war to end all wars." According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, that is the reason Nov. 11 is the day we now celebrate as Veterans Day. Since its beginning as Armistice Day in 1919, Nov. 11 has been a day to recognize veterans for their service and sacrifice. The town of Phillipsburg, New Jersey, has made it a point to make this date with a special commemoration every year.
This year marks the 18th annual William L. Nixon Veterans Tribute. However, this year the celebration will be even more special than the first time it was held in 1997. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs named the tribute as the region's official commemoration, as reported by Lehigh Valley Live.
Of the Phillipsburg event, the department wrote on their website, "From stirring parades and ceremonies to military exhibits and tributes to distinguished veterans, these events serve as models for other communities to follow in planning their own observances."
Not only is this year's event a nationally recognized celebration, it will also feature a special tribute to Korean War veterans, as it is the 65th anniversary of that war beginning. The news source reported that there would be a Blackhawk helicopter landing, a live streaming feed of the celebrations at the Korean War Memorial in Honolulu, Hawaii, and musical performances.
Local veterans will be honored, and some are even going to give speeches about their experiences and memories of combat. All former servicemembers from Phillipsburg and the surrounding areas are encouraged to come with their families and enjoy the event.
The 2015 William L. Nixon Veterans Tribute will take place at 1 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 8 at Phillipsburg High School.