As Veterans Day 2025 approaches, the twin cities of West Monroe and Monroe, Louisiana, are preparing to recognize the brave men and women who have served our country. This important day, November 11th, offers our community a specific chance to show deep appreciation for the sacrifices made by our veterans and their families, both past and present. It’s a time to consider their commitment, bravery, and the freedoms we value, which their service made possible.
This year, the feeling of remembrance and appreciation will be present throughout the area with various events and personal gestures designed to acknowledge our local heroes. From official ceremonies to individual acts of kindness, there are many ways for everyone in West Monroe and Monroe to participate. Let’s unite as a community to ensure our veterans feel valued and remembered not just on Veterans Day, but every day.
ULM Veterans’ Day Appreciation Ceremony:
The University of Louisiana Monroe (ULM) will hold its yearly Veterans’ Day Appreciation Ceremony on Friday, November 7, 2025, at 10 a.m. This significant event will take place on Scott Plaza, providing a central and easily reached location for attendees. ULM is honored to have Louisiana’s Secretary of Veterans’ Affairs, Charlton J. Meginley, as this year’s featured guest speaker. His thoughts and words will surely connect with all who gather to pay tribute to our nation’s veterans.
- Ideas for honoring veterans in Monroe—wear a poppy, support veteran-owned businesses, send thank-you cards, or visit local veterans. Source: honoringamericasveterans.org
This ceremony is a key part of our local Veterans Day observances, offering a formal setting to acknowledge the immense contributions of service members. The event is completely free and open to the public, encouraging broad community involvement. While RSVPs are not strictly necessary, they can assist with arrangements, so those interested in attending are encouraged to contact the university to confirm their presence and demonstrate their support for our veterans.
Community and Individual Ways to Honor Veterans:
Beyond the official ceremony, residents of West Monroe and Monroe have many opportunities to personally honor our veterans. A simple yet meaningful gesture is wearing a red poppy, a symbol of remembrance and support for those who have served. These poppies are often made by veterans themselves, and their distribution helps support disabled and hospitalized veterans. Additionally, consider actively looking for and supporting businesses owned by veterans in our area; supporting these entrepreneurs is a direct way to give back to those who have served.
Showing appreciation can also take the form of sincere thank-you notes or visiting local veterans’ facilities, such as assisted living or nursing homes, to share a conversation and a smile. Even small acts of kindness, like offering a friendly word of thanks to someone in uniform, can make a significant difference. This Veterans Day, let’s make a deliberate effort to extend our appreciation and ensure our local heroes know how much their service is valued within the West Monroe and Monroe community.
