An agreement to end World War I came on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month. Initially called Armistice Day, the holiday was renamed Veterans Day in 1954 to recognize the patriotism and sacrifices of veterans who continued to serve the country.

Area schools, municipalities, clubs and businesses are thanking veterans in a special way. Here are some local events. Activities are free and held on Veterans Day, Friday, Nov. 11, unless otherwise noted:

HERMISTON

The city of Hermiston and American Legion Post No. 37 is hosting the annual Veterans Day Breakfast, 8 a.m. at the Hermiston Community Center, 415 S. Highway 395. The event is open to veterans, active duty service members and their families.

Catered by The Pheasant Blue Collar Bar & Grill, the event also features a slideshow of local veterans. Submit photos, including the first/last name of the veteran, to Kelly Schwirse at kschwirse@hermiston.or.us (RSVP via 541-667-5018 or conta.cc/3DUl9ou).

ECHO

Veterans will be honored Thursday, Nov. 10 during events organized by the Echo School District. A parade escorted by first responders starts at 10 a.m. in front of the school, 600 Gerone St., and will loop around to Main Street and back. People are encouraged to stand or park along the parade route.

Veterans and their families are invited to an assembly, 1 p.m. in the school’s gymnasium. To recognize honored guests, veterans are asked to arrive early and provide their name and military information. (541-376-8436, bjparker@echosd5.org).

HEPPNER

The Heppner High School Veterans Day Celebration is Thursday, Nov. 10, 10:30 a.m. in the gymnasium, 710 Morgan St. Veterans, their families and the general public are invited to attend.

The school band and choir will perform a few selections, followed by Roll Call. The guest speaker is Scott McEwen, a Heppner High School graduate and author of the No. 1 New York Times Best Seller, “American Sniper.”

McEwen will host a meet-and-greet and book signing after the program. Copies of his book will be available for purchase.

Veterans and their families are invited to enjoy lunch. In addition, people are encouraged to visit local downtown merchants to enjoy window displays, including photos of local veterans. (541-676-9138, jean.collins@morrow.k12.or.us).

IRRIGON

Local veterans are invited to a Veterans Day assembly on Wednesday, Nov. 9, 9:45 a.m. at Irrigon Junior/Senior High School, 315 S.E. Wyoming Ave. A PowerPoint presentation will feature photos submitted by local veterans and their families.

Afterward, a meet-and-greet with leadership students will include refreshments. (541-922-5551, rose.palmer@morrow.k12.or.us).

MISSION

Wildhorse Resort & Casino invites all veterans and military personnel to enjoy a Veterans Day meal. Food, up to $18, can be ordered at Wildhorse Resort & Casino, off Interstate 84 Exit 216, Mission; Hamley Steakhouse & Saloon, 30 S.E. Court Ave., Pendleton; or Birch Creek Grill, 69772 Highway 395, Pendleton.

To receive the complimentary meal, present military identification or proof of service. In addition, veterans will receive a commemorative “Home of the Brave” button from Club Wild, while supplies last. (800-654-9453, bit.ly/3fwxd77).