Sedona Pays Tribute to Its Brave Veterans

The Sedona Heritage Museum hosted its annual Veterans Day ceremony on November 11, drawing a crowd of approximately 200 attendees.

Highlights of the event included speeches from Arizona Representative Quang Nguyen, Sedona Mayor Scott Jablow, and outgoing Coconino County Supervisor Adam Hess. The audience was also entertained by musical performances from Tom Jepperson and Suzie Schomaker, under the direction of master of ceremonies Shondra Jepperson.

The ceremony commenced with Al Coxe, a retired U.S. Air Force lieutenant colonel, and members of the Sedona Area Veteran and Community Outreach presenting the American flag. This was followed by the National Anthem and the Pledge of Allegiance, with Bradley Moors, a retired U.S. Army Band bugler master sergeant, playing “Taps” to honor the occasion.

Attendees joined Shondra Jepperson, Suzie Schomaker, and Tom Jepperson in singing “God Bless America” during the ceremony, creating an uplifting atmosphere. Moors shared his reflections, stating, “Everybody is very upbeat. It’s a rare opportunity to honor our veterans.” He reminisced about his experiences as a bugler, highlighting prestigious performances at the White House and the Tomb of the Unknowns.

Mayor Jablow emphasized the importance of the freedoms veterans defend. “These rights are secured through the sacrifices of veterans like you and those who lost their lives,” he remarked, acknowledging their dedication.

Supervisor Adam Hess also expressed gratitude, emphasizing the need for community support among veterans. “It’s part of my life, and I won’t let it go,” he said, underscoring the value of camaraderie and shared experiences.

Representative Nguyen reflected on the freedom to criticize the government and its importance to democracy. He shared a personal story of his evacuation from Saigon in 1975, recalling how he and his family navigated a turbulent journey to safety.

Nguyen’s narrative resonated with attendees, illustrating a poignant connection to service members. “Thank you for your service” holds genuine significance for him, he said, having witnessed the bravery of soldiers firsthand during his youth.

The event concluded with musical tributes representing each branch of the U.S. military, further emphasizing the day’s themes of honor and remembrance. Shondra Jepperson encouraged attendees to visit a dedicated exhibit on the museum lawn, which pays tribute to Sedona veterans from World War II and Korea.