NEWS FROM O’FALLON CITY HALL
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
15th Annual Salute to Scott AFB Day
June 13, 2009
O’Fallon, Illinois – June 2, 2009-- Mayor Gary L. Graham and the City Council have issued a Proclamation recognizing June 13, 2009 as Salute to Scott Appreciation Day. The Proclamation further extends appreciation for the role that the former Friends of Scott organization and the current O’Fallon Chamber of Commerce Military Affairs Committee plays in increasing awareness of Scott Air Force Base as a major player in the national defense structure and its relationship to surrounding communities. Col. Gary Goldstone, Commander of the 375th Airlift Wing and Chief Master Sergeant James Suttles accepted the Proclamation on behalf of Scott Air Force Base.
Left to right: Dr. Cindy Doil, Chamber Military Affairs Committee; Debbie Arell-Martinez, Chamber Executive Director; Chief Master Sergeant James Suttles, 375th Airlift Wing; Col. Gary Goldstone, Commander, 375th Airlift Wing; Mayor Gary Graham; Ray Holden, Chamber Military Affairs Chairman
The 15th Annual Salute to Scott Day will be held on June 13, 2009, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at O’Fallon Community Park. This event is organized by the City of O’Fallon and the Chamber Military Affairs Committee to show appreciation for base personnel and to increase the awareness of the important relationships that exist between Scott Air Force Base, its staff, and surrounding communities. The event is a picnic and includes a variety of entertainment for all ages.
“Scott Air Force Base, and the men and women who work there, are a vital part of our community. Recognizing areas of mutual concern including housing, public services, and commerce has been important in keeping the base open. The Military Affairs Committee continues to work diligently to keep us all aware of this relationship. Please join us on June 13 in extending appreciation to the men and women stationed at Scott Air Force Base who proudly serve our country”, said Mayor Graham.
A flag ceremony will be held at 10:45 a.m. in honor of Flag Day to kick off the day’s festivities. Free hamburgers, hot dogs, chips and soda will be served 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Various area restaurants will also provide samples throughout the day. At the large pavilion in the park, the O’Fallon Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring a Business Expo from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. The expo features displays from more than 40 local businesses.
There are many family activities planned. There will be pony rides, inflated jumping balloons, fireman’s pole, and antique fire engine rides. Afternoon events include the O’Fallon Police and EMS display as well as a military working dog demonstration at 1 p.m. There will be some surprise events as well! Come have a cupcake and sing “Happy Birthday” in honor of the Army’s birthday at 1:30 p.m. The highlight of the day will be the making of the largest banana split in the area. Be ready to dive in and enjoy this special treat at 2 p.m.!
Make sure you stop by the registration booth any time from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. and register for attendance prizes. Attendance prizes for both adult and children will be awarded throughout the day. The children’s bikes will be awarded at 2:15 p.m. You must be present to win the bikes.
There will be a free family swim all day for those attending. You can pick up your arm band that will get you into the pool at the registration booth as well.
If you’re associated with Scott Air Force Base or an O’Fallon resident who supports the base, please bring your family and join us for free food, drinks, and activities! It will be a day to remember!
For more information on the Salute to Scott Day event, contact the O’Fallon Chamber of Commerce at (618) 632-3377.
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Additional Information Contact:
Pamala L. Funk
Asst. City Administrator
624-4500, Ext. 9-1112
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