Event to Honor Great Smoky Mountain Veterans in Townsend

The event will be honoring the more than 250 veterans buried in over 65 sites within the national park. (Courtesy: WVLT)

Event to Honor Great Smoky Mountain Veterans in Townsend

Posted on June 11, 2025

Townsend, TN (WOKI / WVLT) Veterans buried in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park will be honored this weekend at a special event in Townsend.

The Veterans Heritage Site Foundation is hosting the event scheduled for Saturday, June 14 at 11:00 a.m. at the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center.

In addition to honoring the more than 250 veterans buried in over 65 sites within the national park, the foundation will also celebrate the Army’s 250th birthday and recognize Flag Day.

Officials say ten veterans from the War of 1812 who are buried in the park and surrounding cemeteries will also be recognized. Dr. Michael Woods, a professor at the University of Tennessee, and Dr. Warren Dockter will speak about the war and how Tennessee became involved.

The program also features Quilt of Valor presentations, and Vietnam veterans will receive a 50th Year Commemorative Pin.

News Anchor Casey Wheeless, with our news partner WVLT, is slated to emcee the event.

The event will be honoring the more than 250 veterans buried in over 65 sites within the national park. (Courtesy: WVLT)

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