As a small token of appreciation for the freedoms afforded to all Americans, Maricopa County’s Parks and Recreation Department will be honoring all veterans with Military Service Appreciation Day on Sunday, November 11.
In 2005, the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors issued a formal proclamation resolving that each Veterans Day from that point forward would be observed as Military Service Appreciation Day at all Maricopa County Parks. All active and non-active military personnel are encouraged to visit any of the county’s eleven parks and enjoy affordable recreation. The $7 per vehicle day-use entry fee will be waived for military personnel.
“Veterans sacrificed so much for us, and we can never repay that debt,” said Steve Chucri, District 2, Chairman of the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors. “Military Service Appreciation Day at our parks is a small gesture, but it’s part of the county’s larger commitment to providing services and connections to our veterans 365 days a year.”
“Veterans like my grandfather, who served in World War II, put others before themselves. They sacrifice daily so that we may live freely,” said Supervisor Bill Gates, District 3. “On Military Service Appreciation Day, I want to say a heartfelt thanks to those who have served and invite them to come out to one of our great regional parks free of charge.”
“Representing military families on and surrounding Luke Air Force Base has been one of the great privileges of my time as a Maricopa County Supervisor,” said Supervisor Clint Hickman, District 4. “Any way we can make life easier or better for them, I support.”
“Maricopa County provides services to veterans every day from housing and job connections to Veterans Court,” said Supervisor Denny Barney, District 1. “Waiving the entry fee at our regional parks isn’t on that scale, but I believe it’s a worthy gesture as we seek to honor those who serve and sacrifice on our behalf.”
“Every single veteran should have a place in this community,” said Supervisor Steve Gallardo, District 5. “Whether it’s a simple thank you on the street, a connection to resources, or a free day at our parks, military personnel should have no doubt we appreciate their service and support their future.”
“In addition to waiving the day-use entry on Veteran’s Day, we also offer a significant discount on our annual pass for veterans with any level of service connected disability,” added R.J. Cardin, Maricopa County Parks and Recreation Department Director and recent inductee into the Luke Air Force Base Honorary Commander Program.
At approximately 120,000 acres, Maricopa County is home to one of the largest regional park systems in the United States. The parks are located throughout the County and are all within a 45-minute drive from downtown Phoenix. For information about activities at a County park near you, call (602) 506-9500 or visit www.maricopacountyparks.net/.