IN MEMORY OF ALL
VETERANS
WHO SERVED WITH COURAGE
AND PRIDE
The Arizona Rainbow Memorial
In 1998 veterans in Phoenix wanted to honor American veterans with a wreath laying ceremony. In the search for an appropriate place to pay tribute and honor our fallen comrades, we realized that the only memorials at the National Cemetery in Arizona were by groups such as American legion, who are adamantly opposed to glbt service in the military.
Some of us wondered why there was no memorial for gays, and why we couldn’t have one. After consulting with the Cemetery Director and using guidelines for Memorial design, we designed, created, and paid for our own. One that truly includes all veterans, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.
Designers of the Rainbow Veterans Memorial included; Rowe Babcock, Franc Gaxiola, Monica Helms, Don Porter, Ben Rolfe, Nick Shinstine, Wally Straughn, and Calvin Va ness. Donors from across the United States have contributed to the success of this effort.
It is with deep honor that the Arizona Rainbow Veterans dedicate the Rainbow Veterans Memorial to all gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender veterans and their loved ones.
Franc Gaxiola
Welcome (click here to read the convocation address)
Franc Gaxiola
President, Arizona Rainbow Veterans
Opening Prayer
Rev. Charles Coppinger
Chaplain, Arizona State Legislature
Star Spangled Banner
Military Theme Songs
Wild Blue Yonder
Caissons Go Rolling Along
Anchors Aweigh
Semper Fidelis
Benediction (click to read this memorable address)
Rev. Patrick Stout
Pastor, Community Church of Hope
Wreath Presentation and Personal Memorials “The Charge of Remembrance”
Pictures of the Memorial Wreath Presentation
Wreath donated by Rocky Mountain Chapter, GLBVA
Jim Donovan
President, Gay, Lesbian & Bisexual Veterans of America
America The Beautiful
God Bless America
Final Tribute
Rev. Charles Coppinger
Chaplain, Arizona State Legislature
Taps
James Donovan (left), National President of GLBVA, and Wally Straughn (right), originator of the Monument, pay tribute to the memory of those who have fallen.