Annual event was put on pause during the pandemic but it returns this week to celebrate those who serve

Organizers are calling it a reimagining of Heroes Night.

A lot has changed since the last Heroes Night back in 2019, but one thing that has not is the Community Military Appreciation Committee’s commitment to those who serve Southwest Washington.

Heroes Night is back this weekend, and the CMAC is inviting the public to honor veterans, active duty military, law enforcement officers, firefighters as well as those in the healthcare field.  

Call it a celebration for those who serve Clark County in all walks of life. Heroes Night is Saturday from 3 to 7 p.m. at Hudson’s Bay High School. The event is free for the public.

The previous Heroes Nights were held in parking lots at retail outlets, such as the east Vancouver Costco. There have been no Heroes Nights the past two years. And this year, it will be outside of Hudson’s Bay High School. 

A flyover of two vintage Stearman and Waco biplane trainers is on the schedule.

Military and law enforcement vehicles will be on display, as well.

Retiring Vancouver Police Chief James McElvain and Clark County Sheriff Chuck Atkins will offer their reflections on their careers and pay tribute to their officers and deputies who put their lives on the line every day.

CMAC will be presenting the Bill Morehouse Community Service Award for the fifth year. The award honors first responders who go “above and beyond” in their contributions to the nearly half million citizens in the region. 

CMAC is also giving out the first Carl Lingenfelter “Greatest Generation” award for older veterans from the community. Lingenfelter, a World War II veteran, recently passed away at the age of 102.

Attendees will have the opportunity to learn more about and meet local heroes representing the military and veterans organizations, law enforcement, firefighters and, as CMAS describes, the newest heroes to have emerged over the past two year – healthcare providers who have worked so hard during the pandemic. Pretty much all “heroes” who are serving on the “front lines” while protecting the community and country, CMAC notes.

A vintage car show, also a tradition with Heroes Night, will be going on, as well.

The “One-Eyed Kats” will provide music entertainment with a variety of blues and rock tunes. The Kats will open Heroes Night with an hour-long performance beginning at 3 p.m.

The biplanes are scheduled for their flyover at 4 p.m.

Vancouver Mayor Anne McEnerny-Ogle and County Councilor Gary Medvigy are among the guest speakers, as well. There will be a special presentation honoring World War II and Korean War veterans, then a “Welcome Home” ceremony for Vietnam Veterans. 

More presentations will continue through the end of the event.

CMAC is an all-inclusive organization reflecting a diverse cross-section of the Southwest Washington community focused on serving Gold Star families, homeless veterans, and those whose needs are not otherwise being met. CMAC includes youth, active/reserve military, and various veterans groups.  CMAC plans, executes, or supports community events such as Memorial Day, Veterans Day, “Our Community Salutes, and Patriots Day ceremonies.

Enjoy our video from the 2019 event: