By CAROL SALDIVAR
Moapa Valley Progress
It was a week of solemn remembrance as the Exchange Club of Mesquite held the 14th annual 1000 Flags Over Mesquite event. The field west of the Mesquite Recreation Center was filled with orderly, rank-and-file lines of American flags in honor of those who have served their country in the U.S. military. The event was open to the public throughout the week, 24 hours a day, regardless of the weather. Volunteer personnel kept watch over the field every hour of each day.
On Sunday, Nov. 10, a large volunteer force gathered at the field to install the flags. A stirring opening evening ceremony was held on Veterans Day featuring USO Ambassador Bob Canfield.
On Sunday afternoon a closing ceremony for the week was held. Guest Speaker, retired USMC Lt.Col., Michael Viers spoke of the sacrifices of veterans, and how Veteran’s Day came to be. Retired USAF Lt.Col., Janet McDonald graced the crowd with beautiful musical selections honoring veterans.
Paul Benedict, USAF Veteran and Master of Ceremonies, thanked the volunteers who generously donated time and resources., as well as the volunteer sentries who watched over the flags twenty-four hours a day from start to finish.
Veterans Sandi Sorenson, Charles Sellner and Rick Ashdown presented the individual colors for the ceremonial flag retirement by Mesquite Fire and Rescue. They were assisted by Girl Scout Troop #27.
And the proceeding took place to the sound of veteran Ron Bird playing Taps. This retirement ceremony was performed in honor of Korean War Veterans.
This 1000 Flags project was originally the idea of Mesquite resident and business owner Peggy Purner. Benedict explained that the Mesquite Exchange Club picked up the idea with the purpose of honoring veterans as part of the club’s pursuit to “better our communities through Americanism, community service, youth activities, and the prevention of child abuse.” The event has flourished into what it is today, Benedict said.
“With a field this size for the project, we said, why not 1000?” Benedict said.
The setup and take down of the field, and everything in between, is a huge community effort.
All of the proceeds from this, and other Exchange Club efforts goes to the Virgin and Moapa communities.
As the last notes of Amazing Grace billowed from the bagpipes, Piper Dennis Hangey turned to walk through the rows of flags, stirring emotions amongst visitors. It was a fitting tribute for all the veterans.
