For the past 25 years, Mid-Continent Public Library has recognized Kansas City- area veterans for their service and sacrifice at its annual Veterans Salute celebration. This year, in lieu of an in-person event, the Library will celebrate area veterans virtually between September 26 and November 11.

“This year’s celebration looks a little different, but the mission is still the same—to recognize and honor our nation’s veterans and preserve their stories for future generations,” said Dylan Little, MCPL Community Programming Manager.

In keeping with the tradition of choosing a theme for each Salute, this year’s virtual event will commemorate the 70th anniversary of the Korean War by featuring a series of interviews with area Korean War veterans who will share their memories and experiences of the war. Between September 26 and November 11, the Library will release videos highlighting these interviews on the MCPL360 Facebook page and MCPL YouTube channel .

Veterans Salute Curbside Commemorative Pin Giveaway – An important part of each Veterans Salute is the presentation of special commemorative pins to the veterans in attendance. This year, the Library is making pins available to local veterans through curbside service at all MCPL branches. Veterans who wish to receive one of the limited-edition pins should call their local MCPL branch between October 3 and November 11 to let staff know they’d like to pick one up, and then follow the curbside pick-up instructions. Pins will be available while supplies last.

For more information about the 2020 Virtual Veterans Salute, visit mymcpl.org/Veterans-Salute .

KPGZ News – Brian Watts contributed to this story