Honoring all veterans
in the Founding City of Veterans Day
The All Veterans Memorial, established in 1991, honors the service and sacrifice of U.S. military members from the civil war through today. The Memorial is located in Emporia, Kansas – the founding city of Veterans Day – and is nestled in a beautiful setting on the Cottonwood River, near a waterfall and stone arch bridge.
The grounds include a WWII Sherman tank, a Vietnam Huey helicopter, the anchor from the USS Oliver Hazard Perry, the USS Emporia bell, and a Purple Heart Memorial. The Tablets of Honor walkway weaves throughout the park, commemorating individual service members and highlighting key moments in U.S. military history, including the nation’s first memorial dedicated to Desert Storm. A special memorial remembers Sgt. Grant F. Timmerman, a Medal of Honor recipient who heroically gave his life to save his tank crew.
Annual Events at All Veterans Memorial
Memorial Day Service
May 26, 2025 at 9:30 am
Held on-site at All Veterans Memorial, this moving service reminds us of the sacrifice many have made to protect our freedom and liberty. The service includes distinguished speakers, music, and a wreath/flower laying ceremony.
Emporia Freedom Fest
This fun event includes a run/walk, cycling rides, disc golf tournament, foot march, and warrior spur triple challenge. Proceeds benefit a variety of causes, including soldier care packages, scholarships, honor flights, and more.
All Veterans Service
November 11, 2025 at 11:00 am
In addition to the service held at All Veterans Memorial, there are other events throughout Emporia to celebrate Veterans, including a downtown parade. Get the full schedule and parade entry forms at visitemporia.com.
Donate or Volunteer
All Veterans Memorial relies on the generous support of volunteers and donors. Learn how you can help.
“For all that we cherish and justly desire – for ourselves or for our children – the securing of peace is the first requisite.”
Dwight D. Eisenhower
President, General, Kansan