Federal Way’s fourth annual tribute to veterans “Honoring Our Own,” sponsored by the Historical Society of Federal Way and the Kiwanis Club of Federal Way, will take place on Veterans Day from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Nov. 11 at Todd Beamer High School, 35999 16th Ave. S.
This is a day to honor those who have bravely served this country and risked their lives for our freedom. On Nov. 11, we are paying tribute to not only our veterans, but to those who did not live to be thanked. We also pay tribute to those whose fate is still undetermined — those missing in action.
The highlight of this year’s “Honoring Our Own” is keynote speaker Major General Timothy J. Lowenberg. Lowenberg served as Adjutant General of the State of Washington from September 1999 until August 2012, making him the second-longest Adjutant General since the formation of the Washington Territorial Militia in 1885.
Preceding his appointment as Adjutant General-Washington, Lowenberg served as Air National Guard Assistant to three consecutive Judge Advocate Generals of the Air Force.
In that position, he oversaw the formation, development and coordination of legal policies, plans and programs affecting more than 114,000 Air Guard members in more than 1,000 units throughout the states, territories and the District of Columbia.
His vast resume includes two Bronze Stars (National Defense Service Medals).
“Honoring Our Own” is a free community event. Present will be local government and school officials; Nancy Jaenicke of Reach Out homeless shelters; Todd Beamer and Federal Way ROTC groups; Boy Scout and Police Explorers; and members of VFW Post 2886. Patriotic songs will be performed by Nana Lemeveve, local entertainer Carol Stanley and Federal Way’s popular group Harmony Kings.
Civil War re-enactor Carl Hicks will be present in uniform. Hicks will bring a display of Civil War artifacts, including a musket and bayonet. Refreshments will be provided at the end of the program. A new feature this year will be a community dance following the program at 8 p.m. The Todd Beamer Wind Ensemble will be playing big band music, and Arthur Murray and Pacific Ballroom Dance groups will be on site for lessons.
