It’s on this day that I feel especially patriotic. I’m always one to get goose bumps during the national anthem at football games, but today, for reasons I shouldn’t need to explain I feel especially devoted to the good old USA.

Making plans today for the coming fall and in this patriotic mood, I noticed many military celebrations in Jacksonville over the next few months. Jacksonville’s military history is lengthy and today the military pride is going strong. Here are some events coming up. I hope to see you at a few.

Honoring our Veterans Pow Wow, Pig Out and Iron Horse Car Show, Oct 10-12 - Veterans Pow Wow Host drum is Billy Evens Horse; Pig Out barbecue competition sanctioned by Florida Barbecue Assoc. and Classic car show hosted by Sunshine State Chevelles & Paso Fino drill teams.

Jacksonville Salutes the U.S. Navy, Oct. 11-13 - Held along the Downtown waterfront, event commemorates the 233^rd anniversary of the U.S. Navy in Jacksonville and the 20^th anniversary of the Navy Memorial. Festivities include live entertainment at The Jacksonville Landing, tours aboard an USS Naval ship, Navy memorial rededication ceremony and more.

NAS Jacksonville Airshow, Oct. 25-26 - Ground displays, activities and air performances, featuring the famed Blue Angels are scheduled at Naval Air Station Jacksonville.

Family Art Fest & Salute to the Troops, Nov. 8-9 - The event will showcase the arts and culture of Jacksonville, while saluting active duty military personnel and veterans. Festival is taking place in historic St. Nicholas at Midtown Centre Office Park.

Veteran’s Day Parade, Nov. 11 - The City of Jacksonville honors America’s heroes with a fantastic parade through Downtown. Marching bands sound the drums as lively balloon floats soar above the streets.

For more information on any of these events call (904) 798-9111.