RIO LINDA, CA (MPG) - Every Nov. 11, Americans around the country unite to celebrate Veterans Day and to honor, remember and respect the men and women who have fought for the United States.

According to the United Service Organizations, more than 19.5 million men and women have served in the U.S. military, and Veterans Day celebrates them and their legacies. Often, Veterans Day ceremonies start at 11:11 a.m., signifying the moment that the armistice was signed, bringing an end to World War I on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month.

Rio Linda residents will do no different. On Veterans Day weekend, there are multiple options for residents to pay their respects during community events.

On Nov. 10, the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 4647 of Antelope is collaborating with the Cherrietters Car Club of Rio Linda to raise money for a local veterans’ suicide prevention program.

The statistics are sobering. According to Veterans of Foreign Wars, 22 veterans lose their battle to suicide each day. One veteran every 65 minutes commits suicide, and since 1999, there have been 116,765 military suicides.

Beginning at 9 a.m. Nov. 10 with a breakfast, the event will take place at 3300 U St., Antelope, and will be followed by a car show. Breakfast is $20, and all proceeds will go to 22 A Day Veteran Suicide Prevention program. All residents are welcome to join in the breakfast and to view the car show, which will feature a wide variety of classic cars.

Additionally, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Nov. 11, the Rio Linda Elverta Recreation and Park District will host the Veterans Day Flag Display at Depot Park, 6730 Front. St., Rio Linda.

This ceremony is designed to honor and thank both veterans, local and nationwide. According to Yanni Lagge, Rio Linda Elverta Recreation and Park District recreation supervisor, Girl Scouts Troop 1656 will lend a hand with setting up and “are always a beloved part of the event.” This will include placing American flags throughout the park.

The National Anthem will be performed by local Juanda Wright, and various guest speakers will share vulnerable stories and reflections on their service. Guests can expect a community-centered gathering with a flag display, and opportunities to meet and speak with local veterans.

“The Veterans Day Flag Display ceremony at Depot Park is an opportunity for our community to come together in gratitude, honoring the individuals who have served and sacrificed for our country,” Lagge said. “It’s a chance for residents to reflect on the values of service, courage and unity that make our community strong and to stand in support of our veterans.”

For more information about either of these events, the Rio Linda Elverta Recreation and Park District can be reached at 916-991-5929 and the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 4647 can be reached at 916-332-5950.