For veterans in Columbia, the number 11 holds special meaning. Shortly after the end of World War I, a group of Columbia businessmen got together to mark the armistice agreement that ended the war. It was signed at 11 a.m. on Nov. 11, 1918, the 11th day of the 11th month. From that initial meeting, the 11-11-11 Club has held a ceremony every year but two that were skipped during the pandemic. This year's 11-11-11 Club dinner and ceremony will be held on Tuesday, Nov. 11, at 11 a.m. at the Red Rose Memorial VFW Post 2435, Fourth and Manor streets, Columbia.

This year's speaker will be retired U.S. Navy E6 William Terry.

"He is a 21-year retired U.S. naval medical deep-sea diver," said Kevin Kraft, who will serve as master of ceremonies for the event. Terry served during the Vietnam War era, beginning in 1970, right out of high school. He's active in veterans events and organizations in the community, including the Navy Club Ship 166, a group that is open to any seagoing military personnel who would like to participate in community parades and promote patriotism.

The 11-11-11 Club event will include a turkey and filling dinner, and the event is open to everyone, said Kraft.

"We have a lot of veterans who come every year, and a lot of the general public comes, too," he shared, noting that the ceremony will begin promptly at 11 a.m. with a ringing of a bell 11 times, followed by taps and a firing squad.

"The bell that we use dates back to the Civil War," Kraft noted. "It was donated to us by Dr. E. Witmer Girth. We use that every year as the beginning part of the service."

After the opening ceremony, Terry will speak and the meal will be served. Following the meal, the club will elect officers, and a few remarks will be made.

Kraft has been involved with the club for decades, serving as secretary-treasurer for 35 years. Although he's not a veteran himself, his father served in World War II and was very active in the VFW and other veterans organizations.

Kraft hopes people who have not come to the event before will check it out.

"Make a reservation and come join us," he said. "Once you come one time, you're going to want to come back year after year."

To make a reservation, call 717-684-2370 between 8:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.