Come Veterans Day next week, East County will find no shortage of ways to honor those who have served America.

Antioch’s Veterans Day parade, held Friday, Nov. 11 in Rivertown, will once again resound with the thunder of a Vietnam-era Huey helicopter. One of the parade’s most popular attractions, the chopper will land at 9:30 a.m. near Second and E streets. Members of the community will get to see it up close until it takes off for the start of the downtown parade at 11 a.m. The event usually attracts thousands to Antioch’s historic downtown area.

“The whole event is to honor the veterans living in Antioch and the surrounding towns,” said coordinator Susan Davis. “It gives them an opportunity to come together at an event honoring them where they can meet old friends they haven’t seen in a while and share some of their stories.”

Antioch’s parade will proceed down Second Street and end at Prospects High School, where a short closing ceremony will be held. Four high school marching bands have been called upon to boost the festive atmosphere, as well as the American Legion, the Veterans of Foreign Wars organization, Boy Scouts and other community members.

Brentwood’s celebration, coordinated by Delta Diablo Detachment 1155 of the Marine Corps League, features three Civil War-era field artillery pieces. The event begins at 10 a.m. at Veterans Park, 3841 Balfour Road. A variety of veterans will share their thoughts on the day, including Brentwood Mayor Bob Taylor, American Legion Post 202 Commander Mike Clement and VFW Post 10789 Commander Steve Todd.

Heritage High School’s band will perform, as well as the four-man Junior ROTC unit from Mt. Diablo High School.

Those who have served the United States are encouraged to wear their uniforms, including medals, ribbons and regalia. For more information, call Dale Cook at 925-516-0575.

Veterans will also be honored at the San Joaquin Yacht Club, 550 Riverview Place in Bethel Island. The club is hosting a Veterans Day dinner, open to the public as well as veterans. Appetizers are served at 4:30 p.m.; dinner at 6. Admission for veterans with ID is $5; $11 for non-veterans.

Veterans are encouraged to bring photos and memorabilia to be displayed at a dedicated table. To make reservations, call 925-684-2390.