Virginia Veterans: Make Your Book This Christmas 2025

Words of Veterans

Quantico, Va. – Dec. 25, 2025 – This Christmas season, Virginia veterans are being offered a meaningful gift: the chance to preserve their military stories in a professionally printed hardcover book—at no cost. Words of Veterans was created by Alex K. Sebby, a former enlisted U.S. Marine who served from 1999 to 2003. The online platform helps U.S. Veterans document their service, memories, and life experiences in their own words. Drawing on best practices from the Veterans History Project at the Library of Congress, the tool guides veterans step-by-step through writing their personal history and turning it into a beautifully bound book to share with family for generations. In celebration of Christmas 2025, Sebby announced a special initiative made possible by a grant from the Virginia Department of Veterans Services. The grant provides 1,000 vouchers for U.S. Veterans living in Virginia to have their book printed and shipped free of charge. “This is about honoring service and making sure veterans’ voices are never lost,” said Sebby. “Too many stories disappear because they’re never written down. This program preserves those stories for families and future generations.” Veterans write their story at their own pace using the Words of Veterans platform. Once complete, the book is professionally printed as a high-quality hardcover and shipped directly to the veteran. To qualify, veterans must live in Virginia and redeem a voucher before the program deadline. All books must be printed and shipped by March 31, 2026. Vouchers are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Veterans can redeem their free book using the voucher code FreeBook. For more information, visit www.WordsOfVeterans.com / email Alex@WordsOfVeterans.com / or call 571-494-5106. Semper Fi, Alex K. Sebby

Prince William County

Patch AM Team

Quantico

Virginia

Quantico, Va. – Dec. 25, 2025 – This Christmas season, Virginia veterans are being offered a meaningful gift: the chance to preserve their military...

South Garden Service Dogs

South Garden Service Dogs: Built on Purpose At South Garden Service Dogs, Kevin’s lifelong commitment remains: producing balanced, confident dogs—whether for service, protection, companionship, or competition. Anyone with a service dog who needs help with a training issue is welcome to a free lesson. We train all breeds. But we don’t just train dogs—we transform lives. Training dogs is the easy part; the true purpose is fostering healing and connection for every family. With decades of experience and a philosophy of healing through connection, we guide families—including veterans and first responders—from puppy to fully trained companion. Embracing the I Am Underdog spirit, we are proud to serve those who served us, delivering peace, purpose, and life-changing connection. Please support our GoFundMe to help Kane find his forever home. We are donating Kane to a veteran or first responder in need—your support makes this life-changing partnership possible. https://gofund.me/48da32e67 Peace &amp; Love, Kevin k9kevin.dog

Fredericksburg city

Michael O'Connell

Washington Metropolitan Area

Fredericksburg

South Garden Service Dogs: Built on Purpose At South Garden Service Dogs, Kevin’s lifelong commitment remains: producing balanced, confident dogs...

FREDERICKSBURG, VA — VRE Santa Train 2016 ticket update:About 300 tickets are available at Spotsylvania station, 100 in Fredericksburg for the 8:30 a.m. train, some for the 9 a.m. Manassas train, Broad Run available for all trains, 100 at Woodbridge vendor. Online tickets are sold out.Trains depart Dec. 10 <hr />Photo: VRE

FREDERICKSBURG, VA — VRE Santa Train 2016 ticket update:

About 300 tickets are available at Spotsylvania station, 100 in Fredericksburg for the 8:30 a.m. train, some for the 9 a.m. Manassas train, Broad Run available for all trains, 100 at Woodbridge vendor. Online tickets are sold out.Trains depart Dec. 10

BREAKING Tickets went on sale Monday at 9 a.m., going fast; online tickets sold out

Santa Train 2016 Update

Kids & Family 

Stafford County

Southern Gateway

Falmouth

Spotsylvania County

Spotsylvania Courthouse

Stafford Courthouse

Lake Wilderness

Orange County

Lake of the Woods

Aquia Harbour

King George County

Fairview Beach

Quantico Base

King George

The U.S. Army Band presents an evening of American Band Classics featuring cornerstone works for wind band, including music by Jenkins, Reed, Sousa, Mackey, Giroux, and Smith, under the direction of Colonel Scott McKenzie and 1st Lt. Michael Hong. The concert will also feature Staff Sgt. Marc Placencia, tuba, performing Jean-Baptiste Arban’s The Carnival of Venice.

Local Event: American Band Classics

American Band Classics

The U.S. Army Band presents an evening of American Band Classics featuring cornerstone works for wind band, including music by...

CSz Richmond Theater

Step into the spotlight with “Upstaged” - the hilarious improvised sitcom set in the vibrant 1960s New York theater scene. Join us for an unforgettable evening filled with laughter, wit, and surprise as our talented cast brings this unique show to life, creating a sitcom based on your suggestion before your very eyes. Meet our charming main characters: Penelope, a fading off, off, off, off Broadway actress and Cuthbert, her witty butler who will entertain you with their quick thinking and comedic genius. Every performance, they are joined by special guests who add their own twist to the storyline, ensuring each show is a one-of-a-kind experience. Don’t miss out on your chance to be part of the laughter and excitement. Book your tickets now for an evening of spontaneous humor that will leave you wanting more. Come and experience “Upstaged” – where every night is a standing ovation! 16+

Local Event: Upstaged: An Improvised Sitcom in the NY 1960s Theatre Scene

Henrico County

Tuckahoe

Upstaged: An Improvised Sitcom in the NY 1960s...

Step into the spotlight with “Upstaged” - the hilarious improvised sitcom set in the vibrant 1960s New York theater scene. Join...

Upstaged: An Improvised Sitcom in the NY 1960s Theatre Scene

11460 Sligo Drive, Glen Allen, VA 23060

Glen Allen, VA — Discover a new way to live in Short Pump at Sadler Square, a thoughtfully designed single-family home community by Miller &amp; Smith. Join us for a special Open House this weekend April 25–26 from 11 AM to 5 PM and experience these beautifully crafted homes in person.
During the event, visitors will have the opportunity to tour three distinct model homes, each designed for modern living and flexible lifestyles. From open-concept layouts to spaces ideal for multi-generational living, Sadler Square offers homes that truly fit the way today’s families live.
In addition, move-in ready homes are available now, giving buyers the chance to settle into a brand-new home without the wait—perfect for those ready to make a move this season.
As a special incentive for Open House attendees, buyers can enjoy an event-only offer: a free washer and dryer, making your move even easier.
Located in the highly desirable Short Pump area, Sadler Square offers convenient access to shopping, dining, major commuter routes, and everyday essentials—all just minutes from home.
Whether you’re searching for more space, modern design, or a connected community, Sadler Square invites you to come see what makes this neighborhood feel like home.
<hr>

Local Event: Open House Weekend at Sadler Square in Glen Allen | Tour 3 Model Homes 

Glen Allen

Open House Weekend at Sadler Square in Glen...

Glen Allen, VA — Discover a new way to live in Short Pump at Sadler Square, a thoughtfully designed single-family home...

Open House Weekend at Sadler Square in Glen Allen | Tour 3 Model Homes 

Bring your family and friends to the Purcellville Music and Arts Festival on Saturday, April 25 from noon to 7 p.m. rain or shine. This free, family-friendly event will be held at Fireman’s Field Park and inside the Bush Tabernacle Skating Rink at 250 South Nursery Avenue.

Enjoy a full day of live music and performances across multiple stages, along with an art exhibit, games, chalk art, and a variety of interactive activities. Browse offerings from local vendors featuring handcrafted goods, food, beverages, and more. There will be fun for all ages, including face painting, glitter tattoos, sidewalk chalk art, and t-shirt or tote bag decorating. Local non-profits will also be on-site sharing information and resources. Special activities will highlight and celebrate the 250th anniversary of America’s independence. 
Inside the Bush Tabernacle Skating Rink—transformed into the Art Hall—you’ll find more than 30 works of art, live performances, art demonstrations, and hands-on activities including quilt square decorating and an Instrument Petting Zoo. Be sure to pick up a festival scavenger hunt booklet and complete it for a chance to win a prize! 
Thank you to the sponsors of the festival: Renewal by Andersen, The Back Nine Golf Leesburg, Northern Virginia Orthodontics, Bank of Clarke Foundation, Longhouse Architects, Valley Energy, the Bush Tabernacle Skating Rink, MotoMember, and OHM Productions. If you or your business are interested in sponsoring this event, please email <a href="mailto:events@purcellvilleva.gov">events@purcellvilleva.gov</a>. 
The Purcellville Music and Arts Festival is jointly hosted by the Purcellville Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, the Purcellville Arts Council, and the Town of Purcellville. For more information about the Purcellville Music and Arts Festival please visit <a href="https://www.purcellvillemusicandartsfestival.com" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">www.purcellvillemusicandartsfestival.com</a> and follow PVilleMusicArts on Facebook.

Local Event: Purcellville Music and Arts Festival

Loudoun County

Leesburg

Purcellville Music and Arts Festival

Bring your family and friends to the Purcellville Music and Arts Festival on Saturday, April 25 from noon to 7 p.m. rain or...

St Paul's Episcopal Church

Acclaimed Richmond, VA organist Cheryl Van Ornam will lead a celebration of our nation's 250th Anniversary with a program of music of pipe organ starting with selections from 1776 up to 2026. This concert is free to the public but donations will be accepted at the door,

Local Event: Cheryl Van Ornam, Organ Celebrating 1776 to 2026 St Pauls Masterworks Series

Cheryl Van Ornam, Organ Celebrating 1776 to...

Acclaimed Richmond, VA organist Cheryl Van Ornam will lead a celebration of our nation's 250th Anniversary with a program of...

Cheryl Van Ornam, Organ Celebrating 1776 to 2026 St Pauls Masterworks Series

 Luxury 4th Floor Rooftop Wine Bar, 3500 Cox Rd, Henrico, VA, 23233

Experience the excitement of the track at this elegant Watch Party and&nbsp; rooftop fundraiser benefiting the Wounded Warrior Project. 
Enjoy delicious bites by&nbsp; VETERAN owned company,Chef Mark Burns, will be on-site and served in Iraq.&nbsp; &nbsp;Music by DJ Speakeasy, and various cocktails while participating in faux betting, raffles, and a quest for the Trifecta Trophy. 
RSVP is required to join this premier watch party featuring stunning views and high-stakes fun.

Local Event: Ladies of Short Pump THE WOUNDED WARRIOR RECIPIENT OF THE DERBY WATCH FUNDRAISER

Richmond city

Richmond

Ladies of Short Pump THE WOUNDED WARRIOR...

Experience the excitement of the track at this elegant Watch Party and  rooftop fundraiser benefiting the Wounded Warrior...

Ladies of Short Pump THE WOUNDED WARRIOR RECIPIENT OF THE DERBY WATCH FUNDRAISER

Fredericksburg’s Caroline Street Named Best...

Garden & Gun named Caroline Street the South’s best main street after a regional public voting contest.

Fredericksburg’s Caroline Street Named Best Main Street In The South

Business

How Fredericksburg Precincts Voted In 2026...

Fredericksburg voters backed the redistricting amendment with 65.8% support, while Stafford and Spotsylvania counties both voted "no."

How Fredericksburg Precincts Voted In 2026 Redistricting Special Election

Politics & Government

List Of Companies Planning Layoffs This Week...

A growing number of U.S. companies across multiple industries plan to lay off employees this week. See the list.

List Of Companies Planning Layoffs This Week Includes These VA Businesses

Amazon Report Cites $190B Investment In...

Amazon's 2025 state report shows $190 billion invested in Virginia since 2010 and 45,000 employees working statewide.

Amazon Report Cites $190B Investment In Virginia Since 2010

Police Identify Suspect In Stabbing At...

Fredericksburg police are seeking a 25-year-old Stafford man for malicious wounding following an employee dispute at a McDonald's.

Police Identify Suspect In Stabbing At Fredericksburg McDonald’s

Crime & Safety

Tractor Trailer Driver Cited In Fatal Crash On...

A 34-year-old Tennessee man was charged in connection to an early morning crash that killed two people on I-95, according to police.

Tractor Trailer Driver Cited In Fatal Crash On I-95: VA State Police

Handcuffed Suspect Spits, Bites Officer During...

A Fredericksburg police officer's finger was broken when a shoplifting suspect in custody bit him, according to authorities.

Nearby Communities

State Edition

National Edition

Kids & Family

Santa Train 2016 Update

BREAKING Tickets went on sale Monday at 9 a.m., going fast; online tickets sold out

Skip Wood, Patch Staff

Find out what's happening in Fredericksburgfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

More from Fredericksburg

Fredericksburg’s Caroline Street Named Best Main Street In The South

How Fredericksburg Precincts Voted In 2026 Redistricting Special Election

List Of Companies Planning Layoffs This Week Includes These VA Businesses

American Band Classics

Upstaged: An Improvised Sitcom in the NY 1960s Theatre Scene

Open House Weekend at Sadler Square in Glen Allen | Tour 3 Model Homes

Purcellville Music and Arts Festival

Cheryl Van Ornam, Organ Celebrating 1776 to 2026 St Pauls Masterworks Series

Ladies of Short Pump THE WOUNDED WARRIOR RECIPIENT OF THE DERBY WATCH FUNDRAISER

Words of Veterans

South Garden Service Dogs

Nearby Communities

State Edition

National Edition

Santa Train 2016 Update

BREAKING Tickets went on sale Monday at 9 a.m., going fast; online tickets sold out

Skip Wood, Patch Staff<img alt="Verified Patch Staff Badge" class="styles_Badge__np_hU" src="https://patch.com/img/cdn/assets/layout/badges/verified-patch-staff.svg"/>

Find out what's happening in Fredericksburgfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Skip Wood, Patch Staff