Photo by Steve Smull

To preserve the memories and honor the sacrifices of those who paid the ultimate price while serving their country, Ahwatukee American Legion Post 64 is dedicated to providing and supporting remembrance services and ceremonies.

American Legion Post 64 members. Photo by Steve Smull

Beginning in March and running through Memorial Day, Post 64 will have had three events dedicated to honoring fallen and past Veterans.

On March 15, 2019, the members of the post celebrated the 100 year anniversary of the founding of the American Legion.  This special meeting was dedicated to the 1,194 crew members of the USS Indianapolis CA-35 which was torpedoed on July 30, 1945.

At the March meeting, post member John Boyer gave an educational and moving presentation about the disaster, the victims, and the 316 survivors. John is a survivor family member as his cousin, Lloyd Peter Barto, was one of the crew who was rescued after four days in the shark-infested waters of the Philippine Sea.

For more information on the USS Indianapolis Click here.

On May 15^th, Post 64 honored and remembered 45 members who have passed in a special prayer service led by Post Chaplain Rebecca Schmidt.

John Boyer and Rebecca Schmidt. Photo by Steve Smull

The theme of Never Forget will culminate on Memorial Day, May 27, when Post 64 will join over 20 Color and Honor Guards from across Arizona to pass in review at the Parade of Colors. The Ahwatukee post join many others to place over 100 wreaths in a solemn and inspirational Memorial Day Service at The National Cemetery of Arizona in Cave Creek, AZ on 23029 North Cave Creek Roadbeginning at 8:00 am.

Post 64 Color Guard lined up for the Memorial Day ceremony

The Memorial Day Ceremonies are a very important and respected tradition for veterans and their families across the country and include the presentation of the flag, slow salutes and the playing of taps.  Other services may include prayers, the reading of names, ringing of bells and the lighting of candles.

Click here for more the Ahwatukee American Legion Post 64 website.