David D. Ortega, Mayor of the City of Scottsdale | https://www.scottsdaleaz.gov/council/mayor-david-ortega
David D. Ortega, Mayor of the City of Scottsdale | https://www.scottsdaleaz.gov/council/mayor-david-ortega
Scottsdale is observing National Veterans and Military Families Month in November with several events to honor veterans and active military members. The city will host a Veterans Day commemoration, a community hike, and display banners featuring local heroes.
From November 1 to 15, more than 40 banners celebrating Scottsdale's veterans and active-duty military members will be displayed on streetlight poles in Old Town Scottsdale. Among those honored is the city's founder, Winfield Scott, who served as a captain in the Union Army during the Civil War.
The 2024 honorees include Jim Bruner, an Air Force veteran and former Scottsdale City Councilman; Austin Deuel, creator of "The Chaplain" sculpture at Scottsdale City Hall; and Ryan So, a Navy Hospital Corpsman who served with the Scottsdale Police Department until his death in June.
The Scottsdale Salutes program was initiated by the Veterans Advisory Commission to promote awareness and appreciation for veterans within the community. More information about this year's honorees can be found on the city's website.
On November 11, the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy will lead a guided hike in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve to honor veterans. A special ceremony will conclude the hike.
Additionally, a Veterans Day Commemoration event will take place at Memorial Lawn at Scottsdale City Hall. John F. Regni, USAF (Ret.), former Superintendent of the United States Air Force Academy, will deliver a keynote address alongside music from the Coast Guard Auxiliary Band.
Scottsdale has been recognized by the U.S. Department of Defense as a "Top Performer" for its Vietnam War Commemoration efforts. This acknowledgment places Scottsdale among the top 15 percent of over 13,000 organizations participating in commemorative events since 2012.
A certificate recognizing these efforts will be presented to city officials at a meeting on November 12.
Public memorials throughout Scottsdale offer residents places for reflection or gatherings to honor those who have served in the U.S. armed forces. Further details about these memorials are available on Scottsdale's official website.
Veterans seeking resources or connections with local organizations can also find assistance through links provided on the city's website.
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