A Memorial Day Tribute will begin at 9 am in Carefree on Monday, May 28. The American Legion Riders will parade down Easy Street to the Sanderson Lincoln Pavilion in Carefree Desert Gardens. At the pavilion, the Cactus Shadows High School Band and Choir will provide patriotic music for the event.
Vice Mayor John Crane will lead the Pledge of Allegiance and welcome all in attendance. He will also give a brief tribute to recently deceased retired Marine Corps Colonel Blaine Keith who was originally slated to give the opening remarks. Special speakers for the event include, American Legion Commander Ron Turrell, and retired US Army Colonel Jim Kelsey, who served two tours in Vietnam. In addition two active duty personnel from Luke Air Force Base will also address the crowd.
A wreath ceremony honoring all branches of the military will also be part of the tribute and the United States Air Force will perform a flyover.
Those also participating in the tribute include, the American Legion, Kiwanis, Patriot Riders, Women’s Auxiliary, Barbara Hatch, Founder of Veterans Heritage Project, Packages from Home, Healing of Memories, Wounded Women Warriors, VetsBuilt, Operation Enduring Gratitude, and United for Change.
