How We Honor Memorial Day in Cochise County

We don't "celebrate" Memorial Day here in Southeastern Arizona. With military bases like the Fort Huachuca Army Base and Davis-Monthan Air Force Base in Tucson, we understand Memorial Day is a solemn occasion, and while you're free to hang out with friends and family for a barbecue, it's nice to take time to remember what the day is really about.

Memorial Day is a time to honor and remember the men and women who have died while serving in the U.S. military. We know enough to wait until Veteran's Day before we walk around shaking our soldiers' hands to thank them for their service.

Not that you shouldn't do that - it's a nice gesture, no matter what the day, but we won't do it in honor of Memorial Day.

There are a lot of events planned around Sierra Vista and Fort Huachuca this weekend.

One of the most well-attended events marking Memorial Day, takes place at the Post Cemetery. The ceremony includes a wreath-laying, a rifle salute, a bugle call and remarks from the commanding general and other dignitaries. The ceremony is open to the public and usually attracts hundreds of attendees.

Arranged by the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 9972 in Sierra Vista. This special event honors our fallen heroes in a way you won't soon forget.

It's happening on Monday, May 29th, at the Southern Arizona Veterans Memorial Cemetery, located at 1300 Buffalo Soldier Trail.

The ceremony begins at 10:00 a.m. and includes a keynote speech by retired Army Colonel John Smith, a wreath laying by the VFW Auxiliary, and a rifle salute by the VFW Honor Guard. The event is open to the public and free of charge.

The VFW Post 9972 invites all veterans, active-duty military, and their families to join them in paying tribute to those who gave their lives for our freedom.

For more information, please contact the VFW Post 9972 at (520) 458-9972 or visit their website.