By MELANIE POOLE / Special to the Reporter

The Veteran of the Week is sponsored by the National Veterans Shrine and Register of Honor at the American Village — honoring America’s veterans and telling the stories of their service and sacrifice for the cause of liberty.

“The willingness with which our young people are likely to serve in any war, no matter how justified, shall be directly proportional to how they perceive the Veterans of earlier wars were treated and appreciated by their nation.” — George Washington, President of the United States.

“We invite you to join us in special tributes on this Memorial Day to America’s veterans. We hope you will also take this opportunity to experience the National Veterans Shrine, and consider adding your loved ones to the Veterans Register of Honor. I encourage you to help us tell the stories of our veterans. We owe them our thanks, respect and honor,” said Tom Walker, Founder and President, American Village Citizenship Trust.

The American Village opens at 10 a.m. on Memorial Day, with a Salute to Veterans at 11 a.m. and a wreath-laying at 1 p.m. Family-friendly activities continue through 3 p.m. Admission is free.