Thursday is Veterans Day, a federal and local holiday established to honor the nation's and the territory's veterans for their military service and sacrifice.
In proclaming Nov. 11 as Veterans Day 1999, Gov. Charles W. Turnbull urged residents to display the U.S. flag and participate in patriotic activities planned on St. Thomas and St. Croix.
He noted that "freedom's cost continues long after the guns fall silent," as veterans endure disabilities and families mourn the loss of loved ones. "It is our duty to remember what our veterans have done, and to uphold our commitments to them and their families," he said.
All non-essential local and federal government offices will be closed Thursday, as will schools, banks and many businesses. Veterans Day activities are scheduled on St. Croix and St. Thomas.
On St. Thomas, a parade will depart from Addelita Cancryn Junior High School at 3 p.m. and proceed along the waterfront to Emancipation Garden, where the ceremonial program will take place.
On St. Croix, a parade in Christiansted will start from Times Square at 9 a.m. and proceed down King Street to the D.C. Canegata Ballpark, where a ceremonial program will be held.
