Annual Memorial Day tribute draws visitors from afar

This Memorial Day weekend marks the 10th year the city of Pocatello has hosted one of the nation’s largest displays paying tribute to the American soldiers who have died overseas since 9/11.

With 6,668 crosses, more than 400 volunteers, and nearly 100 local businesses chipping in, the Field of Heroes memorial is one of the largest in the decade-long tradition, drawing visitors from near and far.

Shirley Fackrell of Boise came to Pocatello to view the memorial.

“To think of all of these young men who have sacrificed their lives for us in a war so far away,” she said.

Some of the younger generations have come out to pay tribute to America’s heroes, too.

“Seeing all of these young people who have died at such a young age is really powerful,” said 18-year-old Joanne Hill of Pocatello.

“It’s a good thing, but it’s really sad that this many people have died in war, and it’s really sad, but it’s good that we’re noticing so people get their attention so that they know this is the world and that it’s really happening,” said 13-year-old Jarred Albano of Pocatello.

Event organizers said this is also a way to bring a community closer together.

“This year we’ve had just over 400 volunteers with about 100 sponsors from businesses throughout the city who have helped to put this together,” said George “Woody” Woodman, American Legion commander. “It’s not something that can be done by just one person or just a couple of people. It takes the whole community to make sure it happens.”

The memorial will be taken down Tuesday.

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