KINGMAN – In the tradition of the Wreaths Across America program a ceremony hosted by the Colorado River Corvette Club (CRCC) was held on Dec. 7, at Veterans’ Memorial Park. This event was created as a way of paying tribute to the veterans of the six branches of the US Armed Forces, as well as the US Merchant Marines, our nation’s POW/MIAs, and those who lost their lives at Pearl Harbor eighty-three years ago.
In attendance at this solemn occasion was the Mayor of Kingman, Ken Watkins, all five City Council members: Jamie Stehly, Cengiz Arik, Shawn Savage, Keith Walker, and Smiley Ward. Representing the Kingman Police Department, Captain Brian Zack, the Kingman Fire Department, Firefighter Jeff Gilbert, and Parks & Recreation Director Mike Meersman.
Three District Supervisors represented Mohave County: District 1, Travis Lingenfelter, District 4, Jean Bishop, and District 5, Ron Gould.
Participating in this ceremony were the Kingman Young Marines, the Marine Corps League, Detachment # 887, and the Patriot Guard Riders.
Veteran and patriotic organizations were represented by guest speakers, Terry Flanagan, Commandant of Marine Corps League Detachment #887, Loren Larson, Patriot Guard Riders Assistant Arizona State Captain and Joseph DeBaca, Vice President of the Jerry Ambrose Veterans Council.
Nine veteran members of the CRCC transported the wreaths, which were adorned with a large red bow and service branch patch, to their final location near the six granite towers that represent five service branches and the US Merchant Marine. In addition to these six wreaths, three were also presented to recognize the newest service branch, the US Space Force, POW/MIAs, and a Pearl Harbor remembrance wreath.
Those members were: Jim Zaborsky, Navy, Paul Hebner, Navy, Don Kern, Marine Corps, George Rapoport, Navy, Mac McDonald, Air Force, Steve Barajas, Army, Carl Haas, Air Force, Lou Winget, Army, and Rick Powers Navy.
Retired Army Chaplain Lt. Col. Chris Molnar led the attendees in opening and closing prayers. CRCC President Greg Attl presided over the ceremony, effortlessly transitioning from one aspect of the program to another, bringing to life CRCC’s vision of Honoring Our Veterans.
The accompanying musical score, prepared and presented by John Pettengill, appropriately honored the solemn atmosphere of this event. This was evident by many of the estimated 100 or more attendees being brought to tears.
Honoring and recognizing our veterans is something the Kingman community is known for, and the Colorado River Corvette Club is proud to be a part of.
