Carmel opened its 2025 Veterans Day ceremony on Nov. 11 with an invocation and the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by musical tributes and a keynote address from U.S. Rep. Jim Baird.

Tim Hannon, the ceremony emcee and a retired Navy service member, welcomed attendees, thanked sponsors including American StructurePoint and Indiana Members Credit Union, and recognized the Carmel VFW honor guard. Hannon asked veterans and family members to stand for recognition and noted a roster of 152 city employees with prior military service.

The program highlighted a student poster and essay contest organized by Carmel Clay Schools around the theme "Families of the Brave." Superintendent (name given in the program) presented awards for 14 poster entries and three essay winners out of 46 submissions. First- through fifth-grade students described the meaning behind their artwork onstage; sixth grader Alaya Mitra read an essay honoring the sacrifices military families make, saying in part, "The courage of military families isn't always loved, but it's unwavering." Winners received gift cards supported by the contest sponsor, Indiana Members Credit Union.

Musical performances included the national anthem led by Ashley Nicole Soprano, an armed forces medley, and a rendition of "My Country, 'Tis of Thee" by U.S. Army veteran Blair Clark. Two Carmel High School students, Diego Rowley and Ethan Klein, played Taps as part of the ceremony's close.

Mayor Sue Finkam introduced Congressman Jim Baird, who recounted Veterans Day's history and reflected on his Vietnam service, including his unit's decoration and the brothers he served with. "To all veterans here today, thank you for your service," Baird said, and closed with, "May God bless you, and may God bless America."

Because of high winds, organizers moved the final portion of the ceremony — the laying of carnations at the Veterans Memorial — onto the indoor stage. The event concluded with a benediction from Reverend Davis and the retiring of the colors. Attendees were invited to pick up a commemorative challenge coin sponsored by the city and American StructurePoint as they left.

The ceremony combined community remembrance, student involvement, and veteran recognition; there were no resolutions, motions, or formal actions taken.