For some, they were drafted into service on a fateful day long ago. They were asked to leave their life plans and the world they knew behind in order to serve their country in a time of need. Others volunteered their service, answering a call to serve and give back to their country from a deep desire within themselves to do so. On Armed Forces Day, celebrated on the third Saturday of May, we celebrate and honor those who serve in the Armed Forces of the United States. It is a day to celebrate the brave men and women who choose to selflessly serve their country and who ask for nothing in return. Keeping with a long-standing tradition, the city of Bremerton will be honoring those who serve in their annual Armed Forces Day celebrations on Saturday, May 20.

The longest running Armed Forces Day parade in the nation will continue in Bremerton. The Armed Forces Day celebration will include a Heroes BBQ which will include a meal consisting of a hot dog, chips, and soda to all active-duty, Reserve, retired and veterans. The annual parade draws guests in from as far away as Spokane and even Oregon. This year, over 30,000 people are expected to attend the Armed Forces Day events in the area. The parade will include all branches of our military as well as pageant queens, local commercial businesses, car clubs, as well as many more local entities. The parade will also include several local Junior and High School marching units as well. The parade will be hosted by Downtown Bremerton. For additional details, please contact Frank Gentile at 360.479.3579.

69th Kitsap Credit Union Armed Forces Day Parade, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., May 20, free

Visitors who attend the big, annual Armed Forces Day parade will want to stop by the Puget Sound Energy Heroes BBQ located on Pacific Ave. During the hours of 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., a free hot dog, chips and soda will be provided to all active-duty, Reserve, retired, veterans, service personnel and their families.

Puget Sound Energy Heroes Barbeque, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday, May 20, free