Omaha’s Memorial Park recently transformed into a glowing tribute during its 10th annual holiday lighting ceremony, drawing crowds to honor the service and sacrifice of local veterans. The event, known as the Veterans Shine On Lighting Ceremony, illuminated the park’s iconic World War II Colonnade in vibrant red, white, and blue lights to mark the season and pay tribute to the community’s hometown heroes.
City leaders and community members gathered for the evening event, which blended holiday spirit with solemn remembrance. Mayor John Ewing Jr. addressed the attendees, emphasizing the enduring gratitude owed to those who served. “The lights that shine brightly on us tonight remain in our hearts. And may veterans know we don’t just think you for your service. We are here for you as well,” Mayor Ewing said, as reported by KETV.
Join us for Veterans Shine On this Thursday, November 5 in Memorial Park. The event will include guest speakers, a laying of the wreath ceremony for our war representatives, music, and the grand lighting of the park! 🇺🇸 Event page: https://t.co/0TrENypn2J pic.twitter.com/s8MklUIrdc
Illuminating the World War II Colonnade
The milestone tenth installment of the annual tribute featured several prominent speakers and veterans sharing reflections on military service. Eric Ewing, a Navy veteran and brother to the mayor, delivered the evening’s keynote speech beneath the illuminated colonnade, according to 3 News Now.
For many attendees, the ceremony provided a vital space for reflection. Dwain Holmes, a veteran who served 18 months in Vietnam, spoke with local reporters about the importance of recognizing service members beyond a single designated holiday. “Freedom isn’t free and a lot of people have no idea the cost, the price that’s been paid for the freedom, so anytime there’s something like this that draws attention to veterans I’m all for it,” Holmes stated.
Upcoming Community Tributes and Parades
The lighting ceremony serves as a prelude to a busy slate of local events dedicated to military veterans across the metro area. Organizers have scheduled additional commemorations, including Nebraska’s official Veterans Day Parade in nearby Bellevue, set for Saturday at 10 a.m. along Mission Avenue. Council Bluffs, Iowa, will also host its own parade on Saturday starting at 11 a.m.
In addition to parades, local organizations are coordinating community gatherings and support services throughout the weekend. American Legion Post 1 is slated to host a community ceremony at Memorial Park on Veterans Day, running from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Veterans looking for local fellowship can also find free breakfast offerings on Saturday at several participating locations, including the Gretna Sons of the American Legion, American Legion Post 2 in Council Bluffs, and Defiant Harley-Davidson.
