Weiers: Mayor’s Military Mission may expand to Glendale arena

On a Friday night last May, there was hardly a dry eye in the house as members of the Mayor’s Military Mission, proud families, and friends honored the nearly 350 young men and women from high schools across the Valley who had decided to serve their country by enlisting in one of our nation’s military services.

I am talking about the fifth annual Military Induction Ceremony.

Local businesses, officials from the U.S. Armed Forces, and community organizations joined my Mayor’s Military Mission, commonly known as The Triple M, in saluting the decision made by local high school students to enlist in the military. Each inductee was presented with a ceremonial stole, their first challenge coin, and a Certificate of Appreciation from my office.

The ceremony also included the ceremonial administering of military oath and a musical tribute. The keynote address was given by General Robin Rand a retired United States Air Force four-star general and former commander of Luke Air Force Base.

Venton Blandin, ABC15 reporter, who joined the United States Marine Corps in 1998 and received an honorable discharge, was the master of ceremonies.

The ceremony was a way to honor the inductees and let the families know that there is a community supporting them and their military family members.

I’m proud to say that more than 700 family members and friends of the enlistees joined us — our biggest group since I first conceived of this effort as part of my pledge to serve those who choose to serve our nation.

The inaugural induction ceremony was held in April 2017 and more than 150 high school seniors were honored at the event.

The annual ceremonies have been held at the Northwest Campus of CalvaryPHX. However, because of the popularity of the event, we have even outgrown that building and anticipate hosting the event at Desert Diamond Arena.

These young people making a commitment to join the military deserve our utmost respect. Our country’s strength and reserve are promoted worldwide by members of our Armed Forces. This ceremony shows that we care for them and their families, and we appreciate their service and sacrifice.

This event also brings the community together to publicly acknowledge the courage and commitment that each of them are making.

I am calling on Arizona businesses to join us this year in this effort. Now, more than ever, our youth need to know that we have their backs. They need to know that their decision to sacrifice their time and energy on our behalf is valued.

Call 623-930-2260 or email glendalemayor@glendaleaz.com to find out what you can do to support those who have made the choice to serve.

Reader reactions, pro or con, are welcomed at AzOpinions@iniusa.org.