The community has been invited to what organizers are calling “a Star-Spangled Military Salute.”
Veterans and active duty military members will be honored from 6-9 p.m., tonight at The Ohio Army National Guard Armory, 200 Coleman’s Crossing Boulevard. A special military salute recognizing all veterans and active duty men and women by their branch of service will be held at 7 p.m.
Organizers said the event is free with activities and exhibits “geared toward families and students, as well as honored veterans, ensure a fun and educational free experience.”
Marysville’s armory recently welcomed a new National Guard Unit — Ohio Army National Guard, Battery C, 1st Battalion, 134th Field Artillery Regiment. The unit will be drilling this weekend, which according to co-organizer Carol Reinhard, “is the reason we chose this date.”
“This event is our way of ‘adopting’ them and letting them now how glad we are to have them as a part of our community,” Reinhard said.
Members of the regiment will be on hand to answer questions, lead tours of the Armory, and take photos. The tours will include past and present weapons displays, along with the Army’s newest 155m.m. cannon.
Participants will be able to tour the unit motor pool and a ride with a soldier in an actual Humvee.
“The Green Army Man,” modeled after the toy soldier in the movie “Toy Story,” will be on hand to, “entertain and amaze the crowd and provide unique photo ops with the kids” according to organizers.
“Crafts, face tattoos, balloons, door prizes and free food make this a perfect family fun night,” according to the release.
The event is also geared toward those more interested in military history and affairs.
Military historian Bob Croce will share his knowledge and expansive collection of artifacts representing numerous military campaigns from the Civil War to present.
“Participation by the local Civil Air Patrol and other local veterans’ groups will ensure much to see and do,” according to the release.
Ohio Army National Guard recruiters will be available to speak with community members about the education opportunities and benefits available to guard members.
Students from St. John’s Lutheran School and Fairbanks Middle school will invite those in attendance to “Sign the Scroll.” Organizers said the scroll is “a banner sharing the gratitude of the residents of Union County to our military heros for their service on behalf of our country.” The scroll will be hand-delivered this spring by students to Washington D.C.
Nacrina Alvarez will provide a patriotic musical tribute
More than $1,000 in door prizes will be awarded and veterans and active duty folks will have the opportunity to take part in specialized drawings based on their branch of service. Door prize winners will be announced at the conclusion of the program.
Organizers said they will accept donations to fund a Military Readiness Group, which supports the soldiers and their families during deployments and provides activities for them during the year, for the new unit.
Those wanting more information or to make a donation are asked to contact Jeff Reinhard at (614) 560-5085.