Veteran’s Day in Franklin and Williamson County, TN: Honoring Service and Sacrifice
Every year on November 11th, communities across the United States pause to honor the bravery, sacrifice, and dedication of those who have served in the armed forces. Here in Franklin and Williamson County, Tennessee, Veteran’s Day is more than a date on the calendar—it’s a deeply rooted tradition that brings neighbors, families, and friends together to express gratitude and respect for our local veterans.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the various Veteran’s Day events and observances happening in Franklin and Williamson County, as well as ways you can get involved to improve the lives of veterans and show appreciation for their service. From attending ceremonies to volunteering with organizations dedicated to supporting veterans, there are numerous ways to make a meaningful impact and honor those who have served.
Veteran’s Day Events in Franklin and Williamson County, TN
Veteran’s Day in Franklin and Williamson County, Tennessee, is observed with multiple events honoring the service and sacrifice of military veterans. The community comes together through parades, ceremonies, and special gatherings to pay tribute to those who have served. These events reflect the deep respect and gratitude that Franklin and Williamson County hold for their veterans, providing opportunities for the community to honor and celebrate these men and women.
Franklin Veterans Day Parade
The City of Franklin will host its annual Veterans Day parade in downtown Franklin on Monday, November 11, 2024, at 11 am. The event is a collaborative effort between the city and local radio station WAKM AM-950. The parade route travels down Main Street, from Five Points to Second Avenue, featuring JROTC units and marching bands from Williamson County high schools, as well as students from the Franklin Special School District. Before the parade, a reception for local veterans and their families will be held at the Williamson County Archives from 9 am to 11 am.
Brentwood Veterans Day Ceremony
The City of Brentwood is hosting its inaugural Veterans Day Ceremony on November 11, 2024, at 7 pm at City Hall during the city commission meeting. The event will honor residents who have served in the U.S. Military, featuring the Ravenwood High School ROTC Color Guard and the Brentwood High School Chamber Choir performing the National Anthem. Lt. Cmdr. Howard Rodriquez, a retired Naval Aviator and Brentwood resident, will serve as the guest speaker. The city plans to honor veteran residents during the ceremony with a special slideshow. If you’re a veteran residing within the Brentwood city limits, please send a photo of yourself in uniform, along with your name and branch of service, to charles.booth@brentwoodtn.gov to be included in this tribute.
Nolensville Veterans Day Parade
The Nolensville Veterans Day Parade is scheduled for Saturday, November 9, 2024 at 11 am. This year’s Grand Marshall is Roy Williams, a distinguished veteran of the U.S. Army and Army National Guard, who served from 1968 to 2008. The parade will begin at Rolling Hills Community Church, travel down Nolensville Road through the Historic District, and conclude on Nolensville Park Road. Road closures will be in effect from approximately 10:45 am to 12 pm, with detours available. Look for traffic signs throughout town for assistance.
Spring Hill Veterans Day Service
The 22nd Annual Spring Hill Veterans Day Service is set for Sunday, November 10, 2024, at 2 pm. Hosted by Spring Hill Memorial Park and the City of Spring Hill, this event honors the service and sacrifice of U.S. veterans. The ceremony will be held at Spring Hill Memorial Funeral Home, located at 5239 Main Street, Spring Hill, TN 37174. Keynote speaker Camden Feldman, First Responder Outreach Manager for the Gary Sinise Foundation, will deliver an address. Local organizations will participate in the service, which includes special recognition to honor all past, present, and future veterans. For more information, contact Spring Hill Memorial at (931) 486-0059.
Veteran Support and Resources in Franklin, Williamson County, and Middle Tennessee
Franklin, Williamson County, and the greater Middle Tennessee area provide a wide range of services and support programs to assist veterans and their families. From navigating benefits to securing housing and employment, these resources are designed to address veterans’ unique needs and connect them to essential services.
Williamson County Veteran Services Office
This office provides comprehensive information on federal and state benefits available to veterans and their families. Accredited representatives assist with filing applications to the Veterans Administration at no cost. For more information, contact them at (615) 790-5623.
Tennessee Department of Veterans Services (TDVS)
TDVS provides a range of support for veterans and their families across the state. With 14 field offices and four state veterans cemeteries, TDVS assists with federal benefits claims, connects veterans to resources, and supports state legislation focused on veterans’ needs. For more information, visit their website.
Operation Stand Down Tennessee (OSDTN)
OSDTN is the only comprehensive veteran-serving agency in Middle Tennessee, connecting veterans with careers, community, and crisis services. They offer programs such as employment preparation, housing assistance, benefit counseling, and more. Their Nashville campus is located at 1125 12th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37203. For assistance, call (615) 248-1981.
Volunteer Opportunities to Support Veterans in Franklin and Williamson County, TN
Numerous organizations offer impactful ways for community members to support veterans and their families in Franklin, Williamson County, and beyond. From assisting with daily needs and transportation to preparing care packages, there are many ways to make a difference.
Hands On Nashville
Hands On Nashville (HON) is a volunteer resource center that connects individuals with service opportunities across the Nashville area. As part of the United Way of Greater Nashville, HON collaborates with over 170 nonprofits and community organizations, offering a diverse range of volunteer projects. Their platform allows users to find opportunities that align with their interests and schedules, including options for families, groups, and virtual volunteering.
Disabled American Veterans (DAV)
The Disabled American Veterans (DAV) organization offers various avenues for individuals to support veterans and their families. Opportunities include volunteering, advocating for legislative changes, hiring veterans, and engaging in corporate partnerships. Advocacy efforts focus on protecting veterans’ rights and benefits. Employers are encouraged to hire veterans, with resources and recognition available through DAV.
VolunteerMatch
VolunteerMatch is an online platform that connects individuals with volunteer opportunities in their communities, including roles specifically designed to support veterans. By entering their location and areas of interest, volunteers can find opportunities tailored to help veterans in various capacities. These roles may involve assisting at veterans’ facilities, providing companionship, supporting mental health programs, helping with transportation, or working on job readiness initiatives for veterans transitioning to civilian life. The platform partners with numerous organizations dedicated to veteran welfare, making it easy for those who want to give back to find meaningful, impactful ways to assist veterans and their families.
Soldiers’ Angels
Soldiers’ Angels is a national nonprofit providing comfort and support to military service members, veterans, and their families. Established in 2003, the organization offers programs like care packages and letters for deployed troops, food assistance for low-income veterans, and patient visits at VA hospitals. They also support military families with initiatives like virtual baby showers and holiday adoptions. Volunteers, known as “Angels,” participate in various ways, from preparing care packages to engaging in special campaigns such as “Treats for Troops.” Soldiers’ Angels offers a meaningful way for individuals to give back to the military community.
A Tribute to Our Veterans in Franklin and Williamson County, TN
Veterans Day in Franklin and Williamson County is a testament to the community’s deep appreciation for those who have served. Through parades, ceremonies, historic tours, and ongoing support programs, the county offers many ways to honor veterans—not only on November 11th but throughout the year. By attending local events, visiting historic sites, or volunteering with organizations dedicated to veteran support, residents can show gratitude and actively contribute to the well-being of veterans in their community.
