The annual Salute to Veterans event is a free community event held each year, organized by the various veterans groups throughout Rutherford County, to give the public an opportunity to honor our veterans, exhibit their commitment to support our veterans and to give our veterans a chance to meet up with old friends and share memories. A special ceremony will be conducted featuring every branch of the military, followed by food, military vehicles on display, artwork from local school students and an appearance by the Rutherfordton Police and Fire Departments. The Marine Toys for Tots Foundation will be onsite collecting new, unwrapped toys for Christmas.