Veterans Day on the SS Red Oak Victory

The 70th anniversary of the cargo ship's launch will be honored.

MEMORY AND HONOR: Pausing to pay homage to those who have served is an act that can be done anywhere, and people do choose to mark Veterans Day in many ways, from private, at-home remembrances to large-scale events held at centers, cemeteries, and landmarks. Making for a ship where an impressive number of veterans once served is a choice made by those who want to connect people to time and place, and it is just what will happen next to the SS Red Oak Victory in Richmond on Tuesday, Nov. 11. The Veterans Day Ceremony will coincide with an anniversary for the World War II-era cargo ship: It's the Red Oak Victory's 70th, and some stirring words shall be said to mark the several decades of shiply service. Lending the day a time-travel-esque element? A USO dance will be held on Nov. 11 from 1 to 3 p.m. The dance follows the speeches and remembrances, which begin at 10:30 a.m. at The Rigger's Loft next to the ship (which can be found in former Shipyard #3).

THE SS RED OAK VICTORY: The cargo ship, which was launched on Nov. 9, 1944, is part of the Rosie the Riveter/WWII Home Front National Historical Park, will be "free to board" all day on Veterans Day 2014. A "1945-style boxed lunch" is available for seven dollars. As for other happenings aboard its historic decks? Of-the-era films are typically screened throughout the summer months -- "Casablanca" and "Across the Pacific" were two recent offerings -- and the cargo ship opens to a Father's Day pancake breakfast each year. The Richmond Museum of History oversees the landmark vessel.

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