As tension mounts around the globe, many Americans are reflecting on how thankful they are for those who have served in the armed forces to protect the United States of America.
To recognize them, the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors issued a formal proclamation in 2005, resolving that each Veterans Day from that point forward would be observed as Military Service Appreciation Day at all Maricopa County regional parks. As a result, the $7 per vehicle day-use entry fee will be waived for all active and inactive military personnel on Saturday, November 11, 2023.
"Now, more than ever, I’d like to thank the men and women who have fought for the freedoms we enjoy in this great nation," said Clint Hickman, Chairman of the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors, District 4. "I’m proud that District 4 is home to Luke Air Force Base, which was named after Lieutenant Frank Luke Jr., the first aviator to receive the Medal of Honor. Giving our veterans access to regional parks like the beautiful White Tank Mountain Regional Park in my district is just a small token of the board's appreciation. I hope to see lots of veterans enjoying the county’s scenery with their family and friends."
"We hope this initiative will give Maricopa County veterans the opportunity to relax and spend time outside in our beautiful Sonoran Desert," added Jack Sellers, Vice Chairman, District 1. "While we cannot thank our veterans enough for their service and the sacrifices they've made serving our country, we can offer them time in our regional parks to make memories with their loved ones or just enjoy a morning of solitude on the trails."
“Cooler temperatures have finally arrived. So, it is the perfect time to encourage local veterans and their loved ones to explore our regional parks and 645 miles of trails, which offer opportunities for hiking, biking, trail running, and horseback riding,” said Supervisor Thomas Galvin, District 2. “The trails provide a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the peace and natural beauty found in Arizona, and they are a great place for reflection, especially on the many freedoms veterans have secured for our country.”
"As the grandson of a veteran, I am proud that Maricopa County is giving local veterans free access to our regional parks for Veterans Day,” said Supervisor Bill Gates, District 3. “Time in nature is good for the soul, especially when shared with friends and family. Many of our parks have nature centers where visitors can learn about the plants and animals in the park – a fun experience for veterans who have young kids or grandkids.”
"I want to start by saying thank you to our veterans. They work so hard to defend our country and way of life," said Supervisor Steve Gallardo, District 5. "Let's give them a day to step away from the 24/7 news cycle and their busy lives and relax. Let's give them a day to re-energize in nature at our beautiful county parks. And let's find a way, not only on Veterans Day but every day, to show our appreciation for the service members who defend our democracy daily."
"In addition to waiving the day-use entry fee on Veterans Day, we also offer a discount on our annual pass for veterans with any level of a service-connected disability at any time during the year," added R.J. Cardin, Maricopa County Parks and Recreation Department Director, and former Luke Air Force Base Honorary Commander.
At approximately 120,000 acres, Maricopa County is home to one of the largest regional park systems in the United States. The parks are located throughout the County and are all within a 45-minute drive from downtown Phoenix. For information about activities at a County park near you, call (602) 506-2930 or visit www.maricopa.gov/parks.