Gilbert is set to pay tribute to fallen soldiers this Memorial Day with a ceremony hosted by HD SOUTH in partnership with the Town of Gilbert. Locals are invited to partake in this solemn event on May 26, from 8:30 to 9:30 A.M. at the Gilbert Civic Center, located at 50 E. Civic Center Drive. The community will gather to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice through a series of tributes, including a flag and wreath ceremony and the presentation of the battlefield cross, as well as the POW/MIA table.
According to an article published by the Town of Gilbert, the event will also feature a guest speaker lineup that boasts considerable service history. Steve Weintraub, who began his military career in 1987 and served in a variety of capacities, including in Somalia for Operation Restore Hope and in Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom, will share his insights. After retiring as a Colonel in 2019, Weintraub continues his commitment to veterans, helping connect them with resources through various organizations.
Also taking the podium is Les Presmyk, a long-standing Gilbert resident with a deep family history of military service. Presmyk’s father served six years in World War II, and over the past 27 years, several relatives served in Iraq and Afghanistan, including his godson who was killed in action in Iraq. His achievements include initiating Gilbert’s first Veterans Day ceremony and Operation Welcome Home celebrations for returning service members. Presmyk played a pivotal role in developing the Veterans Advisory Board in Gilbert, which has been aiding veterans since its establishment in June 2020…