70th Anniversary and Liberation Day to be separate events

It’s no longer one big event but two separate celebrations.
“We have come to a decision that it is best to keep the two big events separate,” said Vicente Camacho, organizing committee chairman of the 70th Anniversary of the Battle of Saipan and Tinian.

After conferring with Saipan Mayor Donald G. Flores and the other members of the committee, Camacho said that due to funding and time constraints, the 70th Commemoration and Liberation events will be celebrated as two separate events.

“The 70th Commemoration will be celebrated on June 15, 2014, to be held at the American Memorial Park. The event will kick off on June10, 2014, with the Military Historical and Valor Tours organized by [Marianas Visitors Authority] and Veterans Affairs for our invited off-island guests.”

The 70th commemoration of the Battles of Saipan and Tinian will culminate in a parade on June 15, highlighted by the participation of the U.S. military to be followed by a memorial ceremony at the Court of Honor at the American Memorial Park.

There will also be entertainment shows at the amphitheater to regale visiting American and Japanese veterans and their families, tourists, and island residents.

Aside from entertainment, the public will also be able to buy refreshments at booths on the American Memorial Park grounds.

Meanwhile, the committee is asking the community for those who own World War II or any military vehicles and equipment to participate in the parade, sell or display artwork, and vendors who want to sell food. Although it’s a military parade, all other interested organizations, associations, or groups are encouraged to participate.

The lineup of activities are:

* Tuesday, June10, Military Historical and Valor Tours
* Thursday, June 12, 70th Anniversary events on Tinian at the Air Operations Building, North Field
* Friday, June 13, Camp Fire Chat at American Memorial Park
* Friday, June 13, book signing at the American Memorial Park
* Saturday, June 14, Historical Conference, Saipan World Resort
* Military Parade followed by a memorial ceremony

These events are free and open to the public.

Meanwhile, the Liberation Day festivities will begin on June 20 at the Civic Center grounds with nightly entertainments and vendors.

The Liberation Day committee is encouraging the community to join by registering for the following events.

To register, call 670-234-6208.

* Queen candidates: Deadline is May 10, 2014
* Parade
* Float competition
* Entertainment
* Vendors

The success of these events rests with the patience and support of community members.

For questions, contact organizing committee chair Camacho at (670) 287-5351.

Meanwhile, community members interested to join either the Military Historical Tours or Valor Tours activities may contact MVA for tour arrangements at (670) 664-3200/3201. (70TH Anniversary Organizing Committee)