SAVCO and City Unite for Memorable Memorial Day Celebration

Sedona Area Veteran and Community Outreach, alongside the city of Sedona, will commemorate Memorial Day with a ceremony on May 26 at 8:30 a.m. The event is scheduled to take place at the Barbara Antonsen Memorial Pavilion located at Posse Grounds Park, 525 Posse Ground Road.

Chaplain Lt. Col. George Ault, U.S. Army (retired), emphasized the significance of this observance: “It’s a time to remember those who have sacrificed their futures for our betterment. As citizens, we have a responsibility to honor their contributions and celebrate Memorial Day with a spirit of gratitude.”

The ceremony will kick off with an invocation by Ault, who will also lead the closing prayer. Col. Al Cornell, U.S. Army (retired), will extend a welcome message, and Sedona Fire District Chief Ed Mezulis, a Navy veteran, will serve as the guest speaker.

The program includes flag folding by SAVCO and Sedona Police Department cadets, a flag presentation by Chief Warrant Officer Don Clarke, and musical performances by Ron Wright and Red RockAppella. A moment of silence will follow these tributes.

“This is a great honor for me,” Mezulis remarked, highlighting the importance of the day in recognizing the freedoms protected by those who didn’t return. “It is crucial to remember their sacrifices.”

During the ceremony, a flag will be presented to Clare Isquith, widow of retired U.S. Navy Captain David Aba Isquith, who passed away on December 5 at age 89. The program details stated that Capt. Isquith graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1957 and held various roles until his retirement in 1986. He had a distinguished career, serving aboard multiple ships and later working for a defense contractor.

SAVCO President Jack Ross indicated that parking will be manageable but advised attendees to arrive at least 15 minutes early due to the need to cross the street. “Road guards from the Sedona Rangers and SAVCO personnel will be present to assist with traffic,” he assured.

Ross is hopeful that the final components for a newly installed flagpole at the pavilion will arrive in time for the ceremony. Following the event, the Sedona Elks Lodge will host its annual barbeque lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., featuring music from DJ Sound Events.