In observance of Veteran’s Day 2021, Shiloh National Military Park will host two free guided bus tours for veterans and their spouses on Thursday, November 11. “The National Park Service cares for many sites dedicated to the American military, and also provides opportunities for our military community to connect with the important history they defend," said Superintendent Allen Etheridge.
National parks and the military have a long history going back to the establishment of Yellowstone as the world’s first national park in 1872. The United States Cavalry watched over America’s first national parks and served as park rangers until the National Park Service was created 44 years later.
Many national parks have strong military connections including battlefields, military parks, and historic sites. Shiloh National Military Park was established by the veterans of the battle and signed into law by President Cleveland in 1894, “In order that the armies of the southwest…may have the history of one of their memorable battles preserved on the ground where they fought." Shiloh battlefield was administered by the Secretary of War, and under the direction until 1920, of the Shiloh commission, who were all veterans of the battle.
In honor of these close ties between the National Park Service and the American military, Shiloh will be offering two free guided bus tours for former and active-duty veterans and their spouses. The tours will take place at 8:30 am and 11:45 am and last about 2 hours 45 minutes. Space is limited, so interested parties must pre-register by calling 731-689-5696.
Tags: civil war guided tour bus tour veterans military us army union army veterans day 2021
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service
