Veterans Day, Nov. 11, is set aside to thank and honor all men and women who served honorably in the military. In fact, Veterans Day is largely intended to thank living veterans for their service, to acknowledge that their contributions to our national security are appreciated, and to underscore the fact that all those who served -- not only those who died -- have sacrificed and done their duty.

With Veterans Day fast approaching, all veterans are encouraged to express their patriotism and pride through a display of medals earned in their military service. It's a way to show your community the spirit of America's veterans and remind your neighbors of the service and sacrifice of those who guarded democracy. A veteran's military medals tell stories of service, sacrifice, bravery and accomplishment. Each story is as unique as the veteran who wears those medals. Sharing them with family, friends and the public on Veterans Day allows America's veterans to tell their stories to the entire nation and helps teach America's youth the true meaning of citizenship and freedom.

As we salute America's heroes on Veterans Day, there are many activities in which the community is encouraged to participate. On Tuesday, West Hills Community College is conducting its annual veterans luncheon at 11 a.m. The luncheon is open to all veterans. Please RSVP to Fidela Byars at 925-3341. The Fresno Veterans Day Parade will play host this year to the 10,000 veterans and others participating in the parade. The parade will start at 10:30 a.m. with the opening ceremonies in front of Fresno City Hall.

The Hanford American Legion post is honoring Korean War veterans this year on Veterans Day. The ceremony will be at the "Tank" (Hanford Cemetery) at 10 a.m. After the ceremony, lunch will be served at the Veterans Hall in Hanford at 11:30 a.m.

Corcoran will be honoring local veterans at its third annual "Veterans Saluting Veterans" dinner and program. The program begins at 6:30 p.m. at the Veterans Hall. All Corcoran veterans are invited to attend.

There are many state and federal benefits and programs available to veterans and their dependents. To find out if you are eligible for any of these benefits, visit or call our office. We can assist you in completing all required application forms. You can also get information on the Web from the Kings County Veterans Service Office Web site at www.countyofkings.com.

Joe Wright, retired Navy Master Chief Petty Officer, is the Veterans Service Officer for Kings County. Send your questions to the Veterans Service Office, 1400 W. Lacey Blvd, Hanford, CA 93230; call 582-3211, ext. 2662; or e-mail joe.wright@co.kings.ca.us.

(Nov. 7, 2009)