MILITARY

tary appreciation event.”

That’s not to say there won’t be something to appeal to all ages and groups.

Area musicians will perform, Bobby McClendon will provide DJ music, and area dance groups will also entertain the crowd, said Courtis.

MCAS will present demonstrations by its K-9 and martial arts teams, as well as one by the robot used by the base’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal unit to locate bombs.

Yuma Proving Ground will also contribute exhibits, including displays of cargo and personnel parachutes tested by YPG’s Airborne Test Force, of a heavily armored troop transport vehicle and a M119 towed howitzer, as well as table displays of military artifacts.

“We look forward to being down there (for Military Appreciation Day), the soldiers look forward to being down there interacting with our residents and winter visitors,” said Mark Schauer, public affairs officer for YPG.

Other exhibits will include a display of a 40-footlong replica of the USS Arizona battleship sunk in the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor Dec. 7, 1941. The replica, recently refurbished with the help of Yuma businesses and individuals, has appeared previously in events here, including American Legion Post 19’s Veterans Day parade.

Crossroads Mission will serve a free pancake breakfast for veterans from 7:30 - 9 a.m. on Main Street. From 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., active-duty veterans with ID can enjoy a barbecue lunch donated by Texas Roadhouse and served by Yuma 50.

APS will sponsor a kids zone, where youngsters can get their faces painted, ride a kiddie train and play in a jumpy house. Admission to the kids zone is free.

“We want it to be a family event,” said Courtis, “and there’s no charge for anything.”

Organizations wishing to have a booth at Military Appreciation Day should call the chamber at 928-7822567.