With Memorial Day fast approaching, the Treasure Valley in Idaho is gearing up for a series of events to pay tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving the United States of America.
These events provide an opportunity for the community to come together, remember the brave individuals who served their country, and express gratitude for their dedication and valor. From solemn ceremonies to symbolic flyovers and open houses, here are some of the meaningful ways in which the Treasure Valley will commemorate Memorial Day.
1. Idaho State Veterans Cemetery Ceremony: Paying Tribute at the Memorial Grounds
Date: Monday, Memorial Day
Location: Idaho State Veterans Cemetery, 10100 Horseshoe Bend Road, Boise
Time: 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
The Idaho State Veterans Cemetery will host a solemn Memorial Day Ceremony, open to the public. From 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., attendees will witness a wreath presentation by various veteran and civic organizations. The ceremony will also feature active participation from the U.S. Army, U.S. Marine Corps, U.S. Navy, and the U.S. Air Force. Idaho National Guard State Command Sgt. Maj. Alice Randolph will deliver the keynote address, honoring the memory of the fallen heroes. The cemetery, closed to vehicle traffic in the morning, will be adorned with individual American flags at each gravesite. Event parking will be available at Optimist Park, located at the intersection of Hill and Horseshoe Bend roads, with bus transportation provided from 8:30 a.m. onwards. This meaningful ceremony is proudly hosted by the Idaho State Division of Veterans Service.
2. Warhawk Flyover: WWII Fighter Planes Soar in Remembrance
Date: Monday, Memorial Day
Start Time: Approximately 10:45 a.m.
End Time: Around 11:17 a.m.
The Warhawk Air Museum will organize a Memorial Day flyover featuring four World War II fighter planes, symbolizing a tribute to the servicemen and women who fought during that era. Starting around 10:45 a.m., the formation of planes will perform several flyovers at the Warhawk Air Museum before embarking on an 18-minute route. At 10:59 a.m., they will begin their journey from the south side of Saint Alphonsus Nampa, proceeding over significant locations such as Kohlerlawn Cemetery in Nampa, St. Luke's Meridian, Kleiner Park in Meridian, Saint Alphonsus Eagle, Idaho State Veterans Cemetery in Boise, Morris Hill Cemetery in Boise, St. Luke's Boise, Boise VA Medical Center, Veterans Memorial Park, Cloverdale Cemetery, and finally conclude at Meridian Cemetery by 11:17 a.m. The flyover serves as a powerful salute to the service and sacrifice of veterans who gave their lives for their country. Additionally, the Warhawk Air Museum will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., providing an opportunity to explore their exhibits. Food trucks including The Rusty Dog, Big Meats BBQ, and Kona Ice of Treasure Valley will also be present, ensuring a memorable day for all attendees.
3. Nampa Ceremony: Keynote Speech and Patriotic Honors at Kohlerlawn Cemetery
Date: Monday, Memorial Day
Location: Kohlerlawn Cemetery, 76 6th St. N., Nampa
Time: 10:00 a.m.
A special ceremony will take place at Kohlerlawn Cemetery in Nampa to commemorate Memorial Day. Starting at 10:00 a.m., the event will feature a keynote speech by Todd Carlson. The Legion Riders will honor the gravesite of "The Unknown" by placing flags, accompanied by the melodic tunes of Lloyd Blackstone's bagpipe performance. The Troop 112 Honor Guard will present the colors and lead the Pledge of Allegiance, while Patti Syme's rendition of the National Anthem will stir the patriotic spirit among the attendees. Musical renditions by Obadiah Neasham and a Three Rifle Volley by the United States Air Force Honor Guard will further enhance the ceremony. The American Legion Treasure Valley Riders will also participate by laying a wreath, paying their respects to the fallen heroes.
4. Meridian's Rock of Honor: Memorial Day Tribute for Fallen Heroes
Date: Monday, Memorial Day
Location: Julius M. Kleiner Memorial Park, 1900 N. Records Ave., Meridian
Time: 11:00 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
Meridian's Rock of Honor, a monument dedicated to military members and others from Meridian who have sacrificed their lives in defense of the United States, will be the focal point of a Memorial Day Tribute. The event will commence at 11:00 a.m. and is open to the public. Mayor Robert Simison will address the gathering, emphasizing the significance of honoring the 62 fallen heroes engraved on the Rock of Honor. Attendees are encouraged to bring folding chairs or lawn blankets, as seating is limited. The ceremony will feature a wreath laying, a rifle salute, and the haunting melody of Taps. The Memorial Day Tribute is presented by Meridian's American Legion Post 113, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 4000, and the city of Meridian.
5. Eagle Field of Honor: A Patriotic Display Honoring Veterans
Location: Merrill Park, 637 E Shore Dr., Eagle
Dates: May 20 - May 30 (Display remains standing)
The 17th Annual Eagle Field of Honor, a remarkable display at Merrill Park, pays tribute to all veterans and currently-serving men and women who have dedicated their lives to preserving the nation's security and freedom. Hundreds of American flags, standing tall on 8-foot poles in meticulous rows, create a breathtaking sight. The display has been open since May 20 and will continue until May 30, providing an opportunity for the community to immerse themselves in a patriotic tribute that evokes a profound sense of gratitude.
6. Boise City Cemeteries: Flag-Raising Ceremony and Remembrance
Morris Hill Cemetery:
Location: 317 N. Latah St., Boise
Time: 11:45 a.m.
Fort Boise Military Reserve Cemetery:
Location: 1101 Mountain Cove Road, Boise
Time: 12:45 p.m.
Boise City Cemeteries will hold their annual flag-raising ceremonies at two significant locations: Morris Hill Cemetery and Fort Boise Military Reserve Cemetery. At 11:45 a.m., a Civil War volunteer group will conduct the ceremony at the Silent Camp in Morris Hill Cemetery, paying respects through a flag-raising, eulogy, and gun salute. At 12:45 p.m., the commemorative event will take place at Fort Boise Military Reserve Cemetery, reaffirming the community's commitment to honoring the fallen heroes. Visitors are also welcome to place artificial flowers, flags, fresh flowers, and wreaths graveside at Boise city cemeteries. However, it is important to note that no glass or breakable containers are allowed, and all mementos must be picked up by June 5.
7. Caldwell Veterans Memorial Hall: Open House to Learn, Support, and Remember
Date: Monday, Memorial Day
Location: Caldwell Veterans Memorial Hall
Time: 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
The Caldwell Veterans Memorial Hall will open its doors to the public on Memorial Day, providing an opportunity to tour the hall and learn about its rich history. Visitors can explore various services and resources available to veterans and their families, and discover ways to support and assist those who have served. This open house serves as a reminder of the ongoing commitment to veterans and an invitation for the community to engage and contribute.
Memorial Day is a time to honor the sacrifices made by servicemen and women throughout history. These events in the Treasure Valley offer opportunities to come together as a community, pay tribute, and express gratitude for the selfless acts of valor and bravery. As you plan your Memorial Day activities, consider participating in these events to ensure that the memory of the fallen heroes lives on and their contributions are never forgotten.