Dixie High School Air Force JROTC, City of St. George/American Legion Post 90 Veterans Day Parade and Concert, St. George, Utah, Nov. 11, 2013 | Photo by Alexa Verdugo Morgan, St. George News

ST. GEORGE – This year’s Veterans Day was kicked off with a parade sponsored and orchestrated by the American Legion, Lester Keate Post 90, a group of over 300 veterans who aim to serve and to better the community.

The parade was filled with marching bands, fancy cars and, of course, many of St. George’s own beloved veterans. After the parade, a tribute took place in the St. George Tabernacle building. In this tribute, local talent honored veterans with patriotic musical performances such as: “God Bless the USA,” “America the Beautiful,” and “Thankful.” Even St. George Mayor-elect Jon Pike delivered tribute in song.

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Videocast by Michael Nielsen, St. George News 

The theme of this year’s celebration was “Freedom Isn’t Free.” Johnnie Johnson, Parade Grand Marshal, spoke during the Tribute in the Tabernacle. “Freedom is not free,” Johnson said. “If by some chance you think otherwise, ask the loved ones of those who gave their lives or who were taken prisoner, or of those who have been wounded.”

Johnson said that he felt the flag no longer means what it used to mean. He then called the audience to renew their dedication to American patriotism. Ski Ingram, adjutant and chairman, explained their need for more service members. He outlined many different veterans associations, but his bottom line, he said, was: “We need you!”

“Veterans are here to serve, and serve America and there’s no time better than to do it now,” Ingram said.

For more information on the American Legion Lester Keate Post 90, visit their official website.

Service members were also honored in a student concert at Pine View High School Monday evening.

Ed. correction: The photo previously identified as the Army National Guard vehicle is in fact from the Army Reserves 308th Medical Company. The caption has been corrected.

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