Active duty military members and their family members are being given an opportunity to get free entrance to all national parks in the form of an annual pass. The National Park Service will begin issuing the passes at the Lake Meredith National Recreation Area, 419 E. Broadway, Fritch, TX, 8:00 am-4:30 pm Monday through Saturday.
This pass is similar to the America the Beautiful National Parks pass that permits free entrance to sites managed by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife, Forest Service and other federal programs. The pass is also available at these locations.
"We all owe a debt to those who sacrifice so much to protect our country," said Lake Meredith National Recreation Area Superintendent Cindy Ott-Jones. "and hope that a visit to this or any national park will offer an opportunity to unwind, relax, rejuvenate, and just have fun with their families."
With the establishment of Yellowstone, the first national park in 1872, the U.S. Calvary served as park rangers until the National Park Service was created 44 years later. Many of today's national parks commemorate military battles and national achievements.
"This new pass is a way to thank military members and their families for their service and their sacrifices." said National Park Service Director Jonathan B. Jarvis.