Veteran center's dedication today

Human Services Committee Chairperson Young Jeff Tom and a volunteer helping out during the construction of a new veterans center in Tuba City, Ariz., Friday. The dedication of the veterans center will be today, beginning with a procession of veterans. ABC Television's "Extreme Makover: Home Edition" is building the center and will air the show on May 22, 2005. (Courtesy Photo)

Independent Staff

WINDOW ROCK — A new veteran center in Tuba City will be dedicated today, culminating a week's worth of efforts to put up the new building.

"It is our Native American service men and women who have the highest per capita percentage out of all ethnic groups who are diligently serving our country," said Omar Begay Jr., a member of the Human Services Committee. "Be a proud supporter by demonstrating your unifying support for all our Native American veterans who have served and are now serving our country."

The new veteran's center was donated by several organizations through the ABC Television Network's "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition."

Former POW Pfc. Jessica Lynch, the late Pfc. Lori Piestewa's roommate and friend, nominated Piestewa's family for the home make-over show.

Cast members of the show gave the Piestewa's a wake-up call last Wednesday and sent them on vacation while more than 1,200 workers started work on a new 4,300-square foot home for the Piestewa family in Flagstaff, Ariz.

As part of Lynch's request, the popular TV show also constructed a new veteran's center in Tuba City.

"It is great that the Navajo Nation receives such a special gift there. I encourage each Navajo individual to take time to witness this special gathering," said Speaker Lawrence Morgan.

A general procession of Navajo and Hopi Veterans is planned today from the Kentucky Fried Chicken parking lot to the new veteran building.

A traditional blessing of the new facilities will be conducted and entertainment will be provided by Navajo, Hopi, and San Carlos Apache dance groups.

The speaker held a luncheon for the workers of the veteran's building on Sunday. Morgan, because of this week's council session, will not attend.

Navajo Tribal Utility Authority, Arizona Public Service, Navajo Housing Authority, and the Navajo Nation Government contributed to the project.