Mayor Al Litman addresses the opening ceremony crowd. Photo by Burton Weast.

Mayor Al Litman addresses the opening ceremony crowd. Photo by Burton Weast.

The Pioneer Center at Sun City Mesquite was the location of the Veterans Health Fair on Oct. 17.  Veterans were offered free health screenings and information from various vendors and veteran organizations.

Virgin Valley Honor Guard members Tony Hardway, Jim Marshall, Jim Carrick, Paul LeVan and bagpiper Dennis Hangey opened the fair with a ceremonial raising of the colors. Brian Wursten followed by beautifully singing “Proud to be an American” giving the ceremony an emotional finish.

Vietnam veteran and Mesquite Mayor Al Litman presided over the event. Mayor Litman announced the annual Veterans Day Parade will be Nov. 7 and held “rain or shine” as last year’s event was rained out.

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) was on hand and provided information on eligibility for benefits and informational packets.  Veterans who want further information can contact the VA on the web at http://www.va.gov/ or call 1-877-222-8387 toll free.

This year’s primary sponsors of the Vet’s Health Fair were Mesa View Regional Hospital, Eureka Resort and Casino and Sun City Mesquite.

Virgin Valley Honor Guard Raise Colors. Photo by Burton Weast.

Virgin Valley Honor Guard Raise Colors. Photo by Burton Weast.

Bagpiper Dennis Hangey and Mayor Litman watch flag raising. Photo by Burton Weast.

Bagpiper Dennis Hangey and Mayor Litman watch flag raising. Photo by Burton Weast.

Mayor Litman salutes the Virgin Valley Honor Guard. Photo by Burton Weast.

Mayor Litman salutes the Virgin Valley Honor Guard. Photo by Burton Weast.