First Image of Mars
Viking I landed on Mars in 1976. Launched August 20, 1975, Viking I carried cameras, a seismometer, a magnet, and sensors for temperature, wind velocity, and pressure. The Lander began to send data 25 seconds after landing and continued to function until November 11, 1982. Children can learn more at: Viking I.
Viking I
Viking I was launched in 1975. It landed on the surface of Mars on July 20, 1976. It transmitted photographs and data regarding weather and atmosphere until November 11, 1982. Children can learn more at: Viking I.
Veterans Day was celebrated for the first time in 1919. Originally known as Armistice Day, the end of World War I was observed on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1919. In 1954, following the end of World War II and the Korean Conflict, Congress changed the name to Veterans Day.
Tomb of the Unknowns
Tomb of the Unknowns was created in 1921. The tomb originally housed the remains of a serviceman killed in World War I. Later the remains of soldiers from World War II, Korea, and Vietnam were added. However, DNA results in 1994 identified the Vietnam veteran, and his remains were moved to another national cemetery. Usually the President and other dignitaries hold ceremonies at the tomb.
Vietnam Women’s Memorial
Vietnam Women’s Memorial opened in Washington, DC, in 1993. The bronze sculpture honors the 11,500 women who served in the Vietnam War. The three women in the sculpture are named Faith, Hope, and Charity.
Children can complete simple activities that would mean a great deal to veterans. One of the simplest activities is to make cards and send them to family or friends who are veterans.
Origami Cranes
World Origami Day is today! The practice of paper folding was originally called orikata. In 1880 the name was changed to origami. Oru means fold, and kami means paper. In 1980 Lillian Oppenheimer founded the Friends of Origami Center of America, today called OrigamiUSA. Today culminates World Origami Days. The paper crane is a symbol of peace, apropos to today, Veterans Day. Children can learn how to make a paper crane at: NPS Paper Crane.
Flag of Angola
Angola celebrates Independence Day. Portugal relinquished its claims to Angola in 1975. The country, located in southwestern Africa, supports an economy that is about 85 percent agricultural. The country’s area is slightly less than twice the size of Texas. About 18.6 million people live in Angola, and Luanda is the country’s capital. Older children can learn more at: Angola.
Washington Apples?
Washington Flag
Washington became the forty-second state of the United States in 1889. Mountains split the state into two distinctive parts. The western portion receives abundant rainfall, while the eastern part is very dry. Its nickname is the Evergreen State, and Olympia is the capital. Washington is the eighteenth largest state, and it is 25th in population. Attractions include Mount St. Helens National Monument and Mount Rainier National Park. Children can learn more at: Washington. Washington is known for its apples. Consider finding various types of apples. Slice them and serve. Children can compare texture, sweetness, and taste.