Weekend memorial at Alexian Field pays homage to veterans
Even for communities that always observe Memorial Day most poignantly, Schaumburg and Hoffman Estates have something extra special in store this weekend.
Friday through Monday, Schaumburg's Alexian Field at 1999 S. Springinsguth Road will host a tribute to veterans called "The Cost of Freedom" on behalf of both villages.
The traveling replica of the Vietnam Memorial Wall will be a prominent part of the tribute in one of the largest area venues in which it's been displayed.
"I think it's a tremendous honor to have this display here," Schaumburg Mayor Al Larson said. "I think it will be in a beautiful environment and easy to get to."
Larson said equal thanks are due to Hoffman Estates; the Schaumburg Park District, which co-owns Alexian Field with the village; and St. Peter Lutheran Church, which gave up its traditional remembrance ceremony for a year.
The Schaumburg Flyers, who play at Alexian Field, also are looking forward to their role as hosts, Assistant General Manager Aaron Studebaker said.
"We feel very grateful to be chosen as the facility to have it," Studebaker said. "It's something that we're very thrilled to be a part of."
Alexian Field will be open to visitors from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday through Monday.
Tammy Duckworth, director of Illinois' Department of Veterans' Affairs, said what makes this tribute special is that it's an all-inclusive remembrance of the fallen veterans of all of America's past and present conflicts.
A number of speakers and performers are scheduled to appear throughout the exhibition, beginning with Wayne Messmer singing at 10 a.m. Friday.
More than 20,000 visitors are expected over the long weekend to take part in the tribute and see the 8-foot-tall and 370-foot-long Vietnam Memorial Wall.
Duckworth will appear at 7:15 p.m. Saturday. A candlelight ceremony will follow at 8.
Duckworth said she expects some people will be drawn to the ceremony, while others will want to visit during relatively quieter times throughout the four days.
For details on the exhibit and related events, visit www.costoffreedomtribute08.org.