YORK COUNTY, Pa. — Ahead of Veteran’s Day, Explore York is creating a way for people to honor and support veterans, both past and present, in their community.
The organization is launching a Military Appreciation Cultural Trail ahead of Veterans Day that highlights a diverse set of locations with military ties for people to check out.
"It’s all about us being able to tell their story, highlight their business and show appreciation for the sacrifices that they have made during their career in the military," said Melissa Beaverson, director of destination marketing at Explore York.
"The ability we have through this trail to honor and recognize our military and our veterans and provide opportunity to drive traffic into veteran owned businesses that’s so important for us," she continued.
The trail is available for group tours but Explore York encourages individuals to check out the locations on their own as well.
The trail includes nine stops, ranging from historical locations to veteran owned businesses that include Aviator Brew Hub, Glenn Hope Care Farm, Heart of Hanover Trails, Lebanon Cemetery, Roots for Boots and Public House at the Markets at the Markets at Hanover, Pop Crafts, Prospect Hill Cemetery, Refillism and Veterans Memorial Gold Star Healing & Peace Garden.
At Lebanon Cemetery, visitors can honor the more than 300 veterans interred on the grounds while learning more about York County’s historical military ties.
"People will have an opportunity to experience and learn about those veterans and their service," said Samantha Dorm, an adviser for Friends of Lebanon Cemetery. "We have Tuskegee Airmen, Buffalo Soldiers, Montford Point Marines, you name it, they’re here."
The trail allows people to also support local veterans and their businesses, like Refillism in York City.
"I think there’s a lot of veterans that would also agree that are very proud of your country and the service you put forward," said Elizabeth Bower, owner of Refillism. "So, of course you want your business highlighted, too. Because you’re super proud of that because it’s a lot of hard work."
For some good drink and food along the way, trail goers can stop by Aviator Brew Hub in Stewartstown.
"Our mission here is using craft beverages to connect people with their history, purpose, potential with others," said David Elwell, co-owner and general manager of Aviator Brew Hub. "It is really refreshing to know that there are folks who haven’t lost sight of the sacrifices that have enabled us to have what we have."
Organizers hope those who travel the trail will continue to spread the Veterans Day message.
"The whole idea and concept is to continue to learn but also to continue to spread the message that’s how we’ll be able to honor all of our military service members," said Dorm. "They served out country and they deserved to be honored."
For more information about the trail and how to book a group tour head to Explore York's website.