Just in time for Veterans Day, the United Service Organizations (USO) has opened a center at Pittsburgh International Airport for the thousands of service members who travel through western Pennsylvania each year.
“The USO Pittsburgh Airport Center will provide a comforting place for military personnel passing through Pittsburgh to relax and recharge,” Rebecca Parkes, USO northeast regional president, said in a press release.
Sheetz and other donors paid for the new USO Center, which features complimentary snacks and beverages, cable TV, a rest area with fully reclining chairs, a computer lab and an area for kids.
The USO will assume the operation of the airport’s Military Lounge in Concourse C, which has been serving service members since 2008. The lounge receives nearly 1,000 visitors annually.
City and county marking the day
Pittsburgh’s annual Veterans Day Parade returns on Thursday morning after a pandemic hiatus. The Downtown parade begins at 10:30 a.m. and will march from 10th Street down Liberty Avenue to Commonwealth Place.
There will be a military flyover by members of Pittsburgh’s 911th Airlift Wing to mark the exact time the armistice ended World War I — the 11th minute of the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918.
Brigadier General Maureen Weigl, Pennsylvania’s deputy adjutant general of Veterans Affairs, is the grand marshal.
Also, Allegheny County is awarding the inaugural Veterans Service Award posthumously to former County Council Member Dr. Charles J. Martoni. The newly created award recognizes individuals who continue their service to our country following their discharge from military service.
Free stuff to say thank you
On Thursday, Nov. 11, active and retired military can enjoy a free Almost Famous sandwich from Primanti Bros. in honor of their service to America at all Primanti Bros. locations in Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia, Maryland and Michigan. The offer is available for dine-in, takeout or online orders.
Many other local restaurants and businesses (as well as national chains) are offering specials for veterans and active service members on Veterans Day. Many require proof of military service.
Sheetz is offering a 6-inch turkey sub and a regular-size fountain drink along with a free car wash. Eat’n Park has a 10 % discount off an entire check for the whole month.
Details on offers from national chains (including Applebee’s, Bob Evans, Buffalo Wild Wings, Chili’s Grill & Bar, Denny’s, Dunkin’ Donuts, IHOP, Olive Garden, Starbucks and Wendy’s) are available online. Check the site to confirm which local franchises are participating.