176th Wing Dedicates Memorial Park to Service Members

ANCHORAGE, Alaska — In an effort to show appreciation for Alaska's service members on Armed Forces Day, the 176th Air National Guard held a ceremony Saturday to honor current and fallen airmen.

But today's event was extra special to the 176th wing because it's celebrating Armed Forces Day for the first time since it left Kulis Air National Guard Base in February, and this dedication is one more step towards calling Joint Base Elmendorf Richardson it's official home.

More than 100 people came to watch the dedication of Memorial Park, which is located on base.  Several aircraft were brought to the park from Kulis as a salute to our nation's heroes.  

The General of the Alaska Air National Guard said this memorial is important because it's a way to remember our service men and their families. "It's the airmen that we remember when we see these airplanes, because they're nice looking airplanes but they don't work without the airmen that's true today," said Brig. General Chuck Foster.

The Vietnam Veteran's Motorcycle Club of Alaska conducted a "Fallen Warrior" ceremony to honor the lives and families of fallen soldiers.

Also, because the park is on land once owned by the Eklutna Native Village, an elder from the community came to give his blessing.