Asheville and Buncombe County residents will honor military service on Veterans Day, Wednesday, November 11, with a major public ceremony at the Charles George VA Medical Center, a community gathering in Weaverville and tributes across the county.

The largest announced observance is scheduled for 11 a.m. at the Charles George VA Medical Center, 1100 Tunnel Road in Asheville, on the stage between the medical center and the Community Living Center.

The free ceremony, expected to run until about 12:30 p.m., welcomes veterans, their families and other community members.

Marine Corps veteran and Purple Heart recipient Kevin Rumley, who directs the Veterans Treatment Court Program, will deliver the keynote address.

The program also includes readings by Brothers and Sisters Like These, music from the A.C. Reynolds choral group and presentation of the colors by the Owen High School JROTC.

A particularly meaningful moment will follow the ceremony: the unveiling of a commemorative bench honoring veterans of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Veteran chainsaw artist Mike Ayers crafted the bench from timber salvaged after Hurricane Helene, in partnership with Echoes of the Forest.

The project connects the region's storm recovery with a lasting tribute to service members who deployed overseas.

Those who cannot attend in person can watch a recording scheduled for 3 p.m. the same day on the City of Asheville's YouTube channel.

In Weaverville, the town will hold its Veterans Day observance from 11 a.m. to noon at the Weaverville Community Center, Albert Weaver Room, 60 Lakeshore Drive.

The program features Army Command Sergeant Major Benjamin D. Garner, Pastor Rebecca Gurney and a performance by the Asheville Senior Choir.

Beyond the ceremonies, Buncombe County's Operation Green Light recognizes veterans by illuminating green lights at the courthouse and Health and Human Services building through November 11.

The county's Veterans Services office at 40 Coxe Avenue provides ongoing assistance and can be reached at 828-250-5726 during regular weekday hours.

Veterans facing an immediate emotional crisis can dial 988 and press 1 to reach the Veterans Crisis Line.

City of Asheville offices will be closed Wednesday in observance of the federal holiday, while city trash and recycling collections are expected to follow their regular schedule.

Before leaving home, check with each venue for any last-minute event adjustments, and allow extra time around the VA medical center.

Veterans Day is about more than a ceremony: it is an opportunity to listen, thank those who served and make sure neighbors know where meaningful support is available throughout the year.