Veterans Day ceremony at JBER canceled

Another casualty of the federal government shutdown will be hitting close to home for many veterans as the Alaska National Guard (ANG) announced that the Alaska Department of Military & Veterans Affairs annual Veterans Day ceremony, originally scheduled for Tuesday, November 11 in the Alaska National Guard armory on Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson (JBER), has been canceled due to a lapse in appropriations and inability to host public events on base resulting from the government shutdown.

In a press release from the ANG, Maj. Gen. Torrence Saxe, adjutant general of the Alaska National Guard and Department of Military & Veterans Affairs, said the decision to cancel the event was not made lightly and expressed appreciation for the community’s understanding. He also reaffirmed the department’s commitment to honoring Alaska’s veterans despite the disruption.

“While the lapse in appropriations restricts our ability to host public events on base, the Alaska National Guard remains steadfast in its gratitude for the service and sacrifice of Alaska’s veterans,” Saxe said. “We encourage all Alaskans to pause on Veterans Day to honor those who have worn the uniform in defense of our nation.”

In past Veterans’ Day events, cadets from the Alaska Military Youth Academy would sing the national anthem and state song, while also serving as the color guard. The Governor of Alaska’s Veterans Advocacy Award is also usually presented at the ceremony on behalf of the governor’s office, given annually to a recipient who demonstrates extraordinary service, compassion and commitment to veterans and their families.

Another highlight is of the event is a wreath presentation ceremony and a moment of silence to honor fallen warriors and their sacrifice.

Verdie Bowen, director of the Alaska Office of Veterans Affairs, said he looks forward to welcoming the community back for next year’s observance.