The 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month is a solemn time in America.

At that day and time in 1918, a no hostilities agreement paved the way for the end of World War I.

Since then, Nov. 11 has been recognized as a time to appreciate those who have served, officially becoming known as Veterans Day in 1954.

Many ceremonies recognizing our veterans will take place this week, most notably the city of Cumming's annual observance at the Veterans War Memorial. Many local schools have also planned events.

The city's celebration, which is being sponsored by the American Legion Post 307 in Cumming, will begin at the official time of 11 a.m. Thursday.

Mayor Ford Gravitt will give the welcome speech among hundreds of American flags set up in the field.

Forsyth County resident Kyle Howling, a retired Marine Corps major and current airline pilot, will be the event's main speaker.

The Forsyth County Honor Guard, local Veterans of Foreign Wars and Forsyth Central High School's Flash of Crimson band and North Forsyth High's Marine Corps JROTC will also take part in the ceremony.

American Legion Commander Geoff Toman said he expects the event to be well attended as usual.

"People want to show their appreciation to the veterans," he said. "That's what this holiday does. This holiday acknowledges the veterans who served and came back."

Joe LaBranche, spokesman for the local Post 9143 of the VFW, said the group will be holding a breakfast that is open to the public prior to the event.

For $4, visitors can enjoy all-you-can-eat pancakes, plus sausage, eggs, bacon and fellowship with members of the VFW, LaBranche said.

The money will go toward the organization's community fund, which is gradually being replenished after a burglary at the post in May.