The city of Aurora’s annual tradition of honoring our military heroes continues in 2014 with a special focus on the dedication and support of military families. The Aurora Veterans Salute is presented by the Aurora Center for Active Adults and will be held Wednesday, Nov. 5 at the Wings over the Rockies Air & Space Museum. The 20th annual event features a sponsor social and time to tour the museum followed by a luncheon with a formal program honoring those who served in all conflicts and in all branches of service. This year event organizers are planning a special tribute honoring military family members.
Aurora is able to celebrate a rich military history because so many of America’s veterans who served at local bases choose to make Aurora and surrounding communities their permanent home. Many of the families who moved to Aurora because of Lowry, Fitzsimons and Buckley bases have opted to stay in Aurora even after their time serving in the military.
“The 2014 event is intended to celebrate the children, spouses, parents & family members of service members because they serve, too,” said Sheila Anthony, event organizer. “We honor our military heroes each year and want to be sure we acknowledge the significant role played by their family.”
During the program attendees will hear from special speaker, Kelly Sullivan Loughren, the granddaughter of Albert Sullivan, one of the five Sullivan brothers who died while serving together on a Navy ship in World War II. Kelly will discuss the historic loss of the Sullivan brothers and the impact it had on the surviving family members. Their story was turned into the movie “The Fighting Sullivans,” and inspired in part “Saving Private Ryan.” Their deaths lead to the adoption of the US Armed Forces Sole Survivor Policy.
“We are proud and compelled to give thanks for the sacrifice of our veteran heroes; and the museum setting on the former Lowry Air Force Base offers us a perfect backdrop to express our appreciation,” said Anthony.
To attend, please register online at www.auroragov.org/salute or at the ACAA at 30 Del Mar Cir., Aurora. For more information or to register by phone call 303-739-7950.
The event Master of Ceremonies is KEZW 1430 AM, Radio Station Manager & Morning Show Host, Rick Crandall. Civic and military leaders will be on hand to honor the veterans and their families. The Aurora Veterans Salute is presented by the City of Aurora Center for Active Adults.