Fallon’s Essie Burriss is as red, blue and white as anyone in the Lahontan Valley.
As the main organizer behind the Armed Forces Day celebration in Fallon, Burriss is presenting a full day of fun, entertainment and history to honor the men and women currently serving in one of the military branches.
“We want to acknowledge and thank the veterans,” Burriss said, noting this is the second year for the local celebration.
Secretary of Defense Louis Johnson announced in 1950 the creation of an Armed Forces Day to replace separate Army, Navy and Air Force days. The first Armed Forces Day was held on May 20, 1950, and in subsequent years, the day and its associated activities are conducted on the third Saturday of May.
"Armed Forces Day, Saturday, May 20, 1950, marks the first combined demonstration by America's defense team of its progress, under the National Security Act, toward the goal of readiness for any eventuality,” former President Harry Truman said in a proclamation released almost three months before the special day. “It is the first parade of preparedness by the unified forces of our land, sea, and air defense.”
The program begins at 10 a.m. at the Churchill County Fairgrounds, but the official ceremonies kick off at noon.
Burriss said a craft fair at the Armed Forces Day will donate money to seniors and veterans to assist them. Eventually, she would also like to see a community built of tiny houses for veterans and seniors who can’t afford the current housing prices.
During the day, Burriss said guest speakers will be attending the ceremonies to include retired Capt. Sam Brown, who served in the U.S. Army. Two years after graduating in 2005 from West Point, Brown deployed to Afghanistan with the 3rd Brigade, 1st Infantry Division at Kandahar. His platoon was ambushed on a mission, and his vehicle struck a roadside bomb, injuring the Arkansas native.
Brown and his family eventually relocated to Reno after he recovered from his extensive injuries.
Churchill County Sheriff Richard Hickox will speak as will Lyon County Commissioner Ken Gray, who retired from the U.S. Air Force.
Burriss said several groups are volunteering their help or donating money or products toward the day.
“It’s a good idea to pull these people into our event together,” she said. “They’re giving back to the community.”
Burriss said many organizations will also have their individual displays set up at Armed Forces Day.
The event features a craft fair and vendors, food, a poker run, honor garden, family games and entertainment. There will also be a cornhole competition, bounce house, face painting, a petting zoo, many games and fun for all ages.
A Poker Chip Run and motorcycle games are also planned.
For information, call Essie at 775-315-6571.
Top Gun Raceway has taken an active role with the Armed Forces Day activities.
The raceway is bringing a number of racecars to the event, and a car show featuring vehicles from the exhibitors in the surrounding area is also planned. Rattlesnake Raceway will also have racecars at Armed Forces Day.
During the day, Top Gun will hand out tickets and free passes and have shirts for sale.
Spectators will also be able to select the Best of Show.
Among the sponsors are the Dolan Automotive Group and Lithia Chrysler-Jeep. For information on entering a vehicle, contact 775-298-1534 or topgundragstrip@yahoo.com.
