ST. GEORGE — This Saturday brings “A Gathering of Veterans, Families & Friends” to the Dixie Center St. George for a free public event running from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

This gathering, coordinated by the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 961 in Southern Utah, returns for its third year offering activities and resources of interest to veterans. Among other things, resources for veterans will include information about veteran benefits assistance, medical and mental heath assistance.

The “Guard a Heart Foundation” will be on hand to offer blood tests to all.

A ceremony will also be held on the lawn outside the Dixie Center complete with crosses Normandy-style during which anyone who wants to honor someone who died during military service may place that person’s name on a white cross.  There will be two “In Remembrance” ceremonies, one at 9 a.m. and one at noon.

Food and music will add to the event.

“We want to stress that this convention is for all Vets, not just those from Vietnam,” organizing committee member Jerry Nostadt said. “Families, friends and loved ones are all welcome to this gathering. You don’t even have to be a Vet. Just drop by and check it out. Have some fun.”

The gathering’s sponsors include the St. George Vet Center, Southern Utah Veterans Home, GuardaHeart, Zion Harley-Davidson, Stephen Wade Group, Ken Garff Ford, St. George Express, Dixie Gun & Fish and Western Arms & Ammo Company.

If you wish to volunteer, make a donation, or just have questions, contact committee members Jerry Nostadt, telephone 714-325-3233 or by email to  [email protected], or Jerry Nowack, telephone 435-313-1776 or by email to  [email protected].

Event details

• What: A Gathering of Veterans, Families & Friends
• When: Saturday, April 23, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. | “In Remembrance” ceremonies at 9 a.m. and noon
• Where: Dixie Center St. George, 1835 Convention Center Drive, St. George
• Admission: Free to the public