Freedom's Never Free event focuses on WWII
LANCASTER – This year's Freedom's Never Free event will feature World War II.
Jeannie Ignash, the organizer for the event, said volunteers have been working to build a traveling World War II memorial that will be on display during the event, Nov. 4-7.
As World War II survivors grow smaller in number, many still have not had a chance to view the memorial built on National Mall in Washington, D.C., to honor the sacrifices of the conflict.
"I know of only one other display, a traveling tabletop version of the memorial," Ignash said. "But we are going to build a scaled down version that will contain many elements of the memorial."
The plan then, after its introduction to the public during the Freedom's Never Free celebration, is in 2016 to allow the display to travel around the country with volunteer veterans, similar to the way the Traveling Vietnam Wall is displayed around the country, Ignash said.
The Freedom's Never Free ceremonies will be held again this year at the Fairfield County Fairgrounds.
"During our opening ceremonies, we will have Fairfield County Sheriff Dave Phalen, who will be talking about his father, a World War II veteran," Ignash said.
The Remnant Expressive Signing Team sponsors the annual event, which is made possible through donations from businesses and organizations.
The Freedom's Never Free event recognizes past and present members of the U.S. Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, Coast Guard and National Guard, along with firefighters and law enforcement officials. Honorees' families also are recognized.
"For the first time, this year, we are also going to hold a USO dance and everyone is invited to wear period clothing on Nov. 6," Ignash said. "The Nostalgics, an 18-piece dance band, will be performing."
To find out more about the Freedom's Never Free event, visit FreedomsNeverFree.com.
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Freedom's Never Free schedule
Nov. 4
4 p.m.: Escort arrives at Fairfield County Fairgrounds. Static displays, Field of Heroes will be set up.
Nov. 5
4 p.m.: Opening ceremony. The grounds will open 24 hours a day through event.
Nov. 6
All Day: Day of Remembrance (A day when people can come and check out the WWII Traveling Memorial)
7 p.m. USO dance. People are encouraged to dress for the era.
Nov. 7
1-6:30 p.m.: Freedom's Never Free appreciation celebration
1-3:30 p.m.: Visitors can browse through the displays and Field of Heroes.
3:30 p.m. Parachutists kick off appreciation celebration with jump
3:45 p.m. Appreciation celebration at the Sands Building.