In a heartwarming November gathering, the community came together to honor Veterans and their families in a truly special event that blended tradition, gratitude, and shared experiences. The gathering, which aimed to provide a personal and enriching experience for all attendees, featured Arnold Lano as the keynote speaker. Lano, a dedicated service member, shared his personal journey and experiences, offering deep insights into his years of service to the country.
A significant highlight of the event was the thoughtful contribution of the Adopt A Native Elder program, which recognized Lano’s service by presenting him with a meaningful gift. This gesture underscored his commitment not only to the nation but also to the communities he served.
As part of the event, the community had the privilege of enjoying a beautiful cultural demonstration led by Hopi relatives, who performed traditional dances that showcased the richness of their culture. The Poleviyaoma Family and Aaron Tree further enriched the gathering by preparing a traditional meal that honored both the Hopi and Dine’ traditions, providing attendees with a taste of their cultural heritage.
Additionally, in a touching moment of unity and support for the Veterans, a group of talented community (youth – elderly) book illustrators from a previous workshop under the Rebalancing Culture program presented a meaningful gift—a book titled Wings To Fly. The book was gifted to each honoree during the event. Walter Watchman, the author of Wings To Fly, delivered a moving speech that emphasized the importance of this gift as a symbol of appreciation to his “wings” that have enabled him to fly.
This memorable event was a powerful reminder of the importance of honoring those who have served and the strength of community when coming together to celebrate shared values and traditions.