The city of Boston will be celebrating those who have served our country for Veterans Day this weekend.
At Castle Island, the Disabled American Veterans is hosting a 5K to raise awareness for veterans issues and programs. The race took off around 9 a.m. Saturday.
Thousands came out to say thank you to the men and women who have risked their lives for our freedom.
Runners are bundled from head to toe. It's hats, glvoes, and layers like you wouldn't believe to battle a 5K through the 20-degree weather.
Sonia Carrasquillo is a proud mom of a veteran. She's proud of the sacrifice her son has given to her and all Americans.
Carlos, Sonia's son, is modest about his service to the country but now he says he has a new duty.
"I just felt like I needed to partake in and donate to those who need it," he said. "I am walking. There are other veterans who aren't walking, you know?"
U.S. & World
The Disabled American Veterans 5K takes place in six different cities across the nation, honoring veterans, and most importanly, raising awareness and money to take care of our very own.
Dan Stack, veteran and organizer, said the advocacy goes into legislation for veterans and the healthcare they need.
"We work in every VA medical center to help transport veterans to and from their wellness care," Stack said.
Carlos said a fierce sting of cold is nothing at all if it means he can support those who have supported him.
"I want to at least help out my fellow brothers."
If you didn't know about the race, you can click here to visit the Disabled American Veterans Department of Massachusetts website and be a virtual runner. You can make a donation or find ways to volunteer.
If 5Ks aren't for you, there are a lot of other events going on Saturday, too. There's a little something for everyone who is looking to celebrate our veterans.
Here are a few events that you can join in on as a way to say "thank you" to the brave men and women who have risked their lives for our freedom.
The Boston Veterans Day Parade is a staple for many in and around the city. The parade goes around the Boston Common and ends at City Hall Plaza. It starts at 1 p.m. at Boylston Street and Tremont, and ends at Boston Common.
The Veterans For Peace Parade begins just a few minutes after the First Veteran’s Day Parade and follows the same route. Those walking in the second parade are part of a group that was founded in 1985 that strive to increase awareness about society’s role in wars, and the price they have to pay. It also starts at 1 p.m. at Boylston Street and Tremont Street, and ends at Boston Common.
The Annual Veterans Day Appreciation Dinner is held at the Fire Department headquarters in Natick each year. The event is sponsored by the Natick Veterans Council, Firefighters Local 1707, and local businesses. Although you need to RSVP, the event is free to local veterans and their families, as well as the families of active-duty service members. It starts at 6 p.m. at the Natick Fire Department Headquarters, at 22 East Central Street Natick, Massachusetts.
Veterans wishing to spend their day with their families at the Franklin Park Zoo will be offered free admission on Veterans Day. This goes from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Franklin Park Zoo at 1 Franklin Park Road in Boston.
Although volunteers are needed and appreciated every single day, some people find time on Veterans Day to get down to the New England Center for Homeless Veterans and help serve meals. The New England Center for Homeless Veterans is located at 17 Court Street in Boston. Click here for more information.
