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Show HILLTOP TIMES Hilltop TIMES June 13, 2013 5 Event in Layton Commons Park remembers veterans and active duty's efforts BY KRISTA STARKER Hilltop Times correspondent T he sound of World War II planes filled the air over Layton last Saturday to remind everyone the price paid for freedom. A large crowd gathered last Saturday to celebrate the second Sounds of Freedom event held at Layton Commons Park. The highlight of the event, the Commemorative Air Force flew over the park to not only show off the planes, but to remind everyone of the sacrifices made by men and women throughout the military to keep the nation free. "The sounds of freedom aren't cheap; veterans make a commitment every day to keep us free. We love to help the military because they do so much for us. And we would like to pay homage to everyone who serves, especially the veterans who have helped keep this country free," said Layton Councilman Mike Bouwhuis while addressing the crowd. The event featured over 80 booths with many vendors giving away iPods, movie tickets and even a car. There were also many games for children to play, one of which allowed them to win dwarf frogs to take home. There were also raffles and silent auctions in which attendees could win a large variety of prizes. One silent auction item was a missile launcher painted in a Rat Fink, hotrod character, motif. L.T. Weese, president of the Military Taskforce and organizer of the event thanked all the vendors and sponsors of the event for their contributions and support. "We held this event in 2002 at the Layton Hills Mall and it has certainly grown since then. I would like to thank Northern Utah Real Estate because without them this wouldn't have been possible. We would also like to thank Utah Helicopter for coming out and supporting such a good cause. As well as Layton, Ogden, Kaysville and Syracuse cities for their support and for all those serving in the military that are here today, these donations go back to you," said Weese. Money raised from the event went to support the Hill Air Force Base Resiliency Program which assists Airmen and their families by helping to provide retreats, counseling, resiliency training and funds for the Special Forces Memorial in Bluffdale, Utah. Riverdale resident Linda Tracy came out to enjoy the nice weather and help support the Air Force base and said she enjoyed every minute of it. Col. Scott Long, 388th Fighter Wing commander, shared his appreciation for the support received from local agencies and residents. "Our contract to you is that MARY LOU GORNY/Hilltop Times The ceremony begins as eventgoers pause to hear remarks, honor veterans and see some World War II aircraft fly overhead at the Sounds of Freedom event held at Layton Commons Park on June 8. A performance by the band Mid-Life Crisis preceded the ceremony and the band's sign was visible onstage as veterans were invited to stand and be honored. Above, Col. Scott Long, 388th Fighter Wing commander, stands with Clearfield JROTC Cadets Amber VanSant and Dakota Fiske after he thanked them for helping out with the Color Guard. At left, Cameron Adams (left) and his brother Ashton (not visible) look at a Trans-Am with friend, Javan Washington. A smoke trail curls behind the path of a Stearman basic pilot training aircraft at the event. The Boeing E75 was used prior to and during World War II and was built in 1945. The plane was one of two World War II aircraft that flew above the trees at the Sounds of Freedom on June 8. we will remain strong and keep (America) free. The state of Utah is a bastion of freedom. We have people deployed worldwide, and we thank you for your continued support of what we do." Christal Lakey, resident of Ogden, said she came out because she knows how important supporting the military can be to the cause of freedom. "They sacrifice a lot including time with their families to help keep us safe. I'm very thankful for all they do to allow us to enjoy our freedom and I wanted to come out and do what I can to support them for all they do for us," said Lakey. |
