Members of the Tybee Island community participated in a Tybee Salutes Heroes Parade last November.

Participate in Tybee Salutes Heroes weekend

Veterans Day is just one of many opportunities Americans take advantage of to show the men and women who took an oath to serve their country how much they are appreciated.

At Tybee Island, Ga., a small, quaint beach town located outside of Savannah, Veterans Day doesn’t occur only on Nov. 11 of each year. Extending the festivities, Tybee Island American Legion Post 154 joined forces with other community members to present the second annual Tybee Salutes Heroes, Nov. 13-17.

Open to veterans and active-duty servicemembers, the event has grown in size this year to offer cost-free accommodations and other perks to approximately 100 families.

“The town is a great place to unwind and relax,” said Chuck Bolen, commander of Post 154. “People really enjoyed it last year because it provided them the opportunity to spend time with their families.”

In similar style to last year’s events, the families that participate this year will have access to the beach and various family-friendly events, including a military family celebration event at Post 154 and the Tybee Salutes Heroes Parade that will feature troops from local military installations and other veterans groups.

Bolen said he hopes this year’s participants feel at home during their visit. “We want to make sure they know that we are grateful for what they have done for us,” he said.

Bolen said the event kicked off last year after community members saw the need to celebrate Veterans Day, embrace current troops, veterans and their families, and convey just how much their daily sacrifices are appreciated.

“I hope that this will expand nationwide to other towns,” said Bolen.

Those interested in staying on Tybee Island during Tybee Salutes Heroes 2015 can download entry form. Deadline for submissions is Nov. 1 at 5 p.m.

Individuals and organizations interested in participating in the Tybee Salutes Heroes Parade can find the application online. Parade submissions are due by Oct. 30.

Applications can be submitted by email to tybeesalutesheroes@gmail.com.