CEDAR CITY – The American Legion will be honoring the veterans of Cedar City during its Veterans Day Observance at 9 a.m. next Wednesday.

The observance will be a flag raising ceremony at the Rotary Centennial Veterans Park on Freedom Boulevard.

“This is a change from what happened before,” American Legion member Keith Robison said. “We use to hold it at the cemetery, but the new park is a natural place for it.”

Robison served in the 222nd in Iraq and left the service shortly after returning home. His joining the American Legion is a family tradition.

“My father and grandfather both served in the armed forces as well. Grandpa in World War II and Dad in Vietnam, so that’s three generations there,” Robison said. “It’s something to be proud of.”

Current plans for the ceremony include raising a flag for each branch of the armed services.

Recently, focus on Cedar City’s veterans has brought positive attention to the city. A documentary film entitled “Hello Gapyeong, Goodbye Sammy,” produced by the Korean Broadcasting System, told the story of the 213th National Guard Field Artillery Battalion during the Korean War.

Also, Cedar City Corporation recently received a special award from the National Guard for their support of employees who are members of the National Guard. At the time the award was received, Mayor Sherratt said, “the armed forces are an important part of what makes Cedar City special. It’s who we are.”

Robison said Cedar City residents have always been patriotic.

“People here are happy to serve their country and to support the troops and veterans,” he said.

Robison said the observance will honor all veterans.

“It doesn’t matter if they are combat or non-combat; we want all veterans to be a part of the observance, along with the rest of the community,” he said.