Beginning today, with a unique exhibit, the Miss-Lou pauses to honor the men and women who fought for our freedom.

On Nov. 11 each year, Americans celebrate Veterans Day with parades, ceremonies and more than a few stories told. And the Miss-Lou is no exception.

An exhibit of rare World War II memorabilia is offered for public viewing from 3 to 5 p.m. today at the Ramada Inn Hilltop. At 10 a.m. Saturday, the annual Veterans Day parade begins at Broadway Street and winds its way through downtown Natchez. Afterwards, from 3 to 5 p.m., a booksigning at the Ramada honors &uot;Mississippians in the Mighty Eighth.&uot;

At 12:30 p.m. Saturday a &uot;Celebration of Freedom&uot; balloon release will be held at Comer Funeral Home in Ferriday, La.

Finally, on Sunday, an 8 a.m. memorial ceremony will take place at the Natchez City Cemetery.

It’s quite a bit of activity, yes, but we have quite a bit of history to celebrate this weekend.

Veterans Day began, perhaps, with the signing of the armistice that ended World War I on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month …

Today, more than 80 years after the end of that war to end all wars, Americans still fight for our freedom.

They’ve fought in Vietnam and in the Mideast; they’ve fought in the South Pacific and in Korea. And they’ve given their hearts, their strength and their lives to protect the country they love.

So take time to take part in the Veterans Day activities this weekend. It’s an opportunity to learn more about our country’s history and to thank the people who have helped to protect it.