Veterans Day event planned in lieu of parade

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Medford's annual Veterans Day parade has been canceled this year, but an event honoring veterans is planned from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Nov. 11 in Hawthorne Park. The American Legion of Medford stepped in after learning the group who held the annual parade could not fulfill the Medford city requirements, a release this morning said. The celebration will include a lunch by Big Daddy's BBQ and information from a variety of organizations serving veterans. “We are very excited to have an event in Hawthorne Park, open to all Veterans, Family Members, and military supporters in our community,” said Cmdr. Kirby Rider. “I am very excited that a large group of Veteran Service Organizations came together to ensure this tradition continued in 2018.” The theme of this year’s celebration is “Veterans helping Veterans.” “This year’s event focuses on celebrating our community’s veterans and those who gone above and beyond to support other veterans in the community,” said Rider. “There are a lot of unsung heroes in our community, and we would like to recognize those individuals and organizations who give back to the veteran community.” Lunch will be free for any beteran who can show proof of their military service, and there's a suggested donation of $5 for family members and community members.