Emporia, Kansas

The Founding City of Veterans Day

History of the All Veterans Memorial

All Veterans Day History

The All Veterans Memorial Park Committee

 a few for the benefit of many...

​In 1991, a small group of Veterans and the City Commission met to establish a park to honor All Veterans and their families.  At that time Emporia, like many cities had over twenty monuments and memorials as well as military historic vehicles throughout the community.  Through partnership, planning and hard work the Committee established, planned and developed the beautiful park you see before you today.

It began with Armistice Day....

In 1953, Emporian Alvin J. King proposed that Armistice Day be changed to Veterans Day to recognize and honor all veterans from all wars and conflicts. Veterans Day was first organized and celebrated in Emporia in 1953. Kansas Congressman Ed Rees, also an Emporian, then took King’s proposal to Congress, and President Dwight D. Eisenhower, also of Kansas, signed the bill proclaiming November 11 as Veterans Day. The first nationwide observance of Veterans Day was on November 11, 1954.

A labor of love and respect...

​The All Veterans Memorial Park, since it's inception has been managed and guided by a committe of local veterans, military spouses and gold star parents.  This small group meets monthly and in partnership with the City of Emporia staff and park service created and maintains the beautiful and reverant park you see today.