Veterans' history will no longer be a distant memory to the Arnold Community, as the youngest to the oldest, will be treated to a vivid recollection and a deep appreciation of our dedicated local heroes during a two-day event.

“Not Too Far Distant” performs on Monday, Nov. 10, at 6 p.m. at Arnold Public Schools. The production will be presented by William A Layton American Legion Post 130 and Auxiliary, Dean K. Leach Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 6157, Arnold Area Historical Society, Arnold Public Schools, and Arnold Community Foundation.

“It is an honor for Arnold to host this special Veterans Day program. The event is a joint effort of many local organizations and groups. What a great way to share our veterans' sacrifice and contributions with the community, our students, and fellow veterans,” said Holly Tullis, one of many assisting with organizing the event.

In addition to a full performance of the play, the Blixt Foundation staff and local veterans will be hosting an open house prior to and following the Monday night performance. Local historical military memorabilia will also be on display during the two-day event. The visiting artists will also have the chance to meet with students throughout the school day to build a better understanding between youth and local veterans.

The new work by Lincoln playwright and speaker Becky Boesen, featured speaker for the Veterans Day program on Nov. 11, looks forward to sharing her passion and appreciation locally. “It’s almost unbelievable that anyone could be hardened to the point of doing the brutal things they did,” said Boesen, speaking of the atrocities committed in the holocaust.

A young man from Nebraska is sent to war, carrying with him the hopes of the free world. What Staff Sergeant Clarence Williams encounters are challenges that change his humanity forever. History touches the present when a new generation takes a journey through time to experience World War II alongside Clarence himself. Centered around his personal letters home, we learn that sometimes what seems so far away is much closer than we think.

Filled with hope and heart, “Not Too Far Distant” honors the experience of the American soldier and reminds us that we all have the power and the responsibility - to help create a brighter future.