Field of 1,000 Flags

The 10th Annual Celebration of Honor Featuring the Field of 1,000 Flags, the American Veterans Traveling Tribute Wall and Medal Ceremonies Returns to Chinook Winds Casino Resort September 19-22, 2013

LINCOLN CITY, OR - For the past ten years, Chinook Winds Casino Resort has spearheaded the Annual Celebration of Honor, a public event that honors active duty personnel, military veterans, and their families. This year, the event will take place September 19-22, 2013. The American Veterans Traveling Tribute (AVTT) Wall and Cost of Freedom Tribute is back for viewing Friday, September 20, through Sunday, September 22.

There are many way for individuals, families, youth groups, businesses, and organizations to become involved with the Celebration of Honor. A fundraiser for a Veteran’s group; a special or discount at your business for Veterans and their families; red, white, and blue decorations at your store; flying red, white, and blue kites; displaying the American flag at your home or place of business; shaking the hand of a Veteran or active-duty personnel and offering a “welcome home” or “thank you”; or planning an event are just a few ways you can become part of this year’s celebration.  Whether it’s a big event or a small fundraiser, every effort contributes to make the 10th Celebration of Honor more meaningful and personal. 

            This weekend-long tribute to our service men and women begins with opening ceremonies at the AVTT Wall in the southeast parking area of Chinook Winds Casino Resort at 6PM.  Kicking off Saturday, September 21, at noon, there is an opening day ceremony with the Ride of Honor led by the Oregon Coast Veteran’s Association (OCVA). Volunteers are needed and welcomed to sign up to help locate names on the wall from 8AM to 8PM each day. Please contact Roger Robertson to sign up at 541-921-8809.

            The Lincoln City Cultural Center hosts “Vintage Military Uniform and Weapon Displays” Thursday September 19 through Sunday September 20, featuring Author Steve Sparks. Steve will speak about post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) at a time TBD.

The Oregon Veterans Medal Presentation Ceremonies are held on the Field of Flags at 2PM on Friday, September 20, and Saturday, September 21. Many friends and family members of service men and women killed in action will post flags on behalf of their fallen, loved heroes at the opening of the ceremony. The Oregon Veteran’s Medal is a custom-designed medal that signifies our appreciation for the service and sacrifice of Veterans. To qualify for this medal, an application form must be completed in advance of the ceremony with proof of military service attached. Forms are available at Chinook Winds Casino Resort just outside the Bingo Hall Entrance, starting at noon September 17. For more information, go to www.veteransoforegon.com.

On Thursday, September 19 at 11AM, Always Traveling hosts a free showing of “Windtalkers” for Military personnel and their families at the historic Bijou Theatre on Highway 101. Starring Nicolas Cage and Christian Slater. It follows the true-life tale of World War II Corporal as he rallies to return to active duty. His entire squad was killed in action and left him nearly deaf from an enemy’s grenade explosion. Enders' new assignment becomes the protection of Navajo Code Talker Private Ben Yahzee (Adam Beach); earning him the rank of Sergeant. In the film, Sergeant Ox Anderson (Christian Slater) receives a parallel assignment to protect Navajo Code Talker Private Charlie Whitehorse (Roger Willie). The stellar movie event is free for all Military and their family members; only $5 for all others who wish to attend.

 Your casual stroll on the beach could provide a hidden treasure in the form of a red, white, or blue glass float that was carefully placed among the miles of sand, shells, and driftwood by Lincoln City Visitor and Convention Bureau Volunteers. This treasure-discovering promotion is part of the critically-acclaimed “Finders Keepers” community program.

            In addition to the North Lincoln Historical Museum’s permanent WWII exhibit, will showcase the documentary “Wounded in Action: Legacy of Heroes” during this year’s Celebration of Honor. This film honors the heroism, dedication, and sacrifices of the 600,000 military medical men and women who served during WWII. It highlights the contributions that orthopedic surgeons have made to advancements in care for trauma-related injuries. Surgeons recall how they faced the terrible responsibility of saving the lives of so many wounded men. These personal recollections are brief snatches of a past lifetime; moments still indelibly etched in the minds of those who leave their quiet heroism as legacy for us today.

On Sunday, September 22, the Rededication of the Traveling Veterans Memorial takes place in front of the Casino at 2PM. The Siletz Tribe Honor Guard and Tribal Drummers start the dedication. Veterans and Active-Duty Personnel eat FREE during open hours at the Siletz Bay Buffet on Sunday, September 22, 2013.  Veterans and Active Duty personnel must stop by the Winners Circle to register, show proof of military service (DD-214 or other Military ID), and receive this benefit.

Your participation is welcomed:  contact Heather Hatton at 541-996-5766 or heather@CWCResort.com  for inclusion in our Schedule of Events or forthcoming press releases.  September is just around the corner!  By working together during this praiseworthy event, we maintain our distinguished reputation and provide a successful city-wide event.  We continue this ten-year-old tradition to honor those who have selflessly guarded our freedom.