City Of Omaha: Lighting Display Honors V ...

Press release from the City of Omaha:

November 5, 2021

A patriotic display of red, white and blue lights recognizes United States veterans and celebrates the holiday season.

For the fifth year, the Veterans Shine On display at Memorial Park will light up the park monuments through December.

“Veterans Shine On has become an Omaha holiday tradition,” said Mayor Jean Stothert. “Traditions tell the stories of our families, and our communities.  They honor the generations that came before us, and those that will follow.  At Memorial Park, we are surrounded by stories of heroism, freedom, and respect for all who serve our country.”

Mayor Stothert, City Council President Pete Festersen and Parks Director Matt Kalcevich recognized veterans and their families at a park ceremony.  

“It is a pleasure and privilege to be a part of an event where we can focus on the people who helped us establish the great freedoms we have in this country today, and say thank you for your commitment to those ideals that our country was founded on,” said Kalcevich. “There’s never a bad or wrong time to say “thank you for your service” to an active duty service person or a military veteran.”

Veterans representing each branch of the military, and organizations supporting veterans and families, placed memorial wreaths at the park. The ceremony also included recognition of the 20th anniversary of 9/11.

“Tonight, we share the pride of a salute, the hope of Christmas light, and our gratitude to all who serve,” said Mayor Stothert. “We also thank the families who sacrifice so much while their loved ones are serving our country, in training, or in conflict. As we begin the holiday season I hope we will all give more generously, pray more frequently, sing a little louder, and give thanks by helping others.”

This press release was produced by the City of Omaha. The views expressed here are the author’s own.