Give Thanks to Veterans
As Veterans Day approaches, we pause to reflect on the courage, sacrifice, and unwavering service of the men and women who have defended our freedoms. This is a time not only for remembrance but also for gratitude to those who are everyday heroes.
Belmont County’s patriotism runs deep. Each November, our communities come alive with displays of pride and remembrance. Flags and banners line Main Streets, marking ceremonies and museum exhibits that honor generations of service. These tributes remind us that the freedoms we enjoy were secured through the bravery and sacrifice of others.
One of the most meaningful places to experience this history firsthand is the Tri-State Military Veterans Museum in Belmont. Guided by the dedication of volunteers, including museum director Cheryl Skinner, the museum preserves the stories of local servicemen and women through artifacts, photographs, and personal accounts spanning from the Revolutionary War to the present day. Before visitors step inside, they are greeted by the Heroes Wall Honored Forever, which inscribes the names of more than 4,000 veterans.
The museum continues to expand its exhibits and displays, including the impressive bald eagle sculpture added last fall. Crafted from recycled aluminum and boasting a nearly six-foot wingspan, the eagle stands as a striking emblem of strength, freedom, and resilience, qualities embodied by every veteran who has served, and those still serving, our nation. Visitors can also see Prince (Vietnam), a bronze statue of a scout dog accompanied by a plaque honoring him and his handler, Ed Reeves.
The museum will be open on Veterans Day, Tuesday, November 11, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., and by appointment through the winter months. A visit offers a moving way to honor our local heroes and connect with the stories that have shaped both Belmont County and America. To learn more, call 740-761-0155 or visit their website.
And while we reflect on the legacy of those who served, Belmont County is preparing for something truly special. In 2026, a national veterans-related exhibit will visit our county. Details will be shared soon, but it will be a profoundly meaningful experience for our community and a tribute worthy of the men and women it honors.
We celebrate and thank our veterans, not just on Veterans’ Day but every day for their patriotism, love of country, and unwavering commitment to protecting freedom. Belmont County is fortunate to have so many veterans among us, and we are honored to remember them.
