American Legion Posts across America are energizing their communities to ensure that the innocent victims will never be forgotten. “ We must not forget all of those who gave their lives for this great country,” Post Commander Russell Destefano said. “Everyone is invited to join together in this uniting ceremony.”
Taking place at the Queen Creek Branch Library, 21802 S. Ellsworth Road, the ceremony is being held in conjunction with the town of Queen Creek and the Queen Creek Chamber of Commerce. The event will begin at 9 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 8 by recognizing emergency service personnel who have remained strong throughout the entire ordeal on the attack of America and who have upheld the honor of patriotism.
There will be a number of different events during the ceremony including the placement of a ceremonial wreath to commemorate the first responders. “ This ceremony will not only honor those who have died, but those who live and continue to fight for the freedom of this great nation,” Destefano said. “As a united nation, we must remain committed to supporting the young men and women of our armed forces as they serve with honor and courage.”
From Sept. 7 through Sept. 16 the Legion will also be hosting the “Remember Our Fallen” exhibit in the lobby of the Queen Creek Library. An emotional photo display, “Remembering Our Fallen,” is a reminder of the sacrifice made by more than 140 Arizonans killed in the War on Terror while wearing our country’s uniform in Afghanistan or Iraq.
“ The warriors of the 21st century, professionals who volunteered to join the United States Armed Forces, grew up in the shadow of Sept. 11, 2001, a defining moment for most of them. They come from all walks of life and every corner of our country, daring to go where so many never would. They retain the face of freedom and build upon the legacies of those who went before them in a cause greater than themselves,” said Col. James Biernesser, USAF (Ret.). “ We can never forget those who sacrificed everything for our freedom. We must remember these American heroes and speak their names when we see their family members. This exhibit is created so it can travel easily throughout Arizona, so that more people will have the opportunity to honor and remember Arizona’s fallen.”
