Celebrating service and sacrifice at Patriot Plaza

An inspirational Army veteran and best selling author? … Check.

Five beautiful, accomplished “Forever Miss Americas”?  … Check.

A world-class concert band with historical ties to the Revolutionary War? … Check.

Speeches, ceremony, and events to inspire patriotism and remind us of all we owe to our service members past and present? … Check, Check and Double Check.

Abraham Lincoln? That’s a little more challenging, but, yes, Check.

Patriot Plaza, the 2,800-seat ceremonial amphitheater at Sarasota National Cemetery, will be the site for CELEBRATE SERVICE AND SACRIFICE, and event on Nov. 15 at 2:00 pm. The presentation, a highlight of the Veterans Legacy Summit, which is hosted by The Patterson Foundation, will feature patriotic music played by The West Point Band.

Five “Forever Miss Americas” will serve as hosts for the afternoon and best selling author Wes Moore will speak of his experiences in service to our country.  The words of Abraham Lincoln will be brought to life by Michael Krebs, a nationally heralded Lincoln portrayer.

Representatives from all five branches of the military will raise a Garrison Flag to fly proudly over the glass rooftop of Patriot Plaza, kicking off this celebration of the Service and Sacrifice of our veterans, active duty personnel and family members of those who are currently serving or have previously served.

The public art of Patriot Plaza provides the perfect backdrop for this heartfelt and moving tribute, which will include the audience witnessing all five branches of the military accepting their newest recruits by administering the Oath of Enlistment.

Celebrate Service and Sacrifice at Patriot Plaza is free to attend but participants must register online.  Click here to register to attend. Click here for parking restrictions.