At the end of this week, on Saturday, Aug. 1, the Martin County Veterans Memorial site in Fairmont will host a ceremony to unveil the mounted Bell Cobra attack helicopter that the memorial committee spent the past year restoring at an estimated cost of $40,000. We hope those who can will attend the event to honor the work that has been done and, of course, to honor our area veterans.

The helicopter itself flew in service in Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos from 1968 to 1971. Its missions included armed escort, reconnaissance and battle support.

When the helicopter was retired, it went into service for the Kern County, Calif., Fire Department.

Saturday’s events include a 9 a.m. parade along North North Avenue. The unveiling will take place at 10:30 a.m. at the memorial site on Winnebago Avenue. After the unveiling, more events will take place at the Martin County Fairgrounds.

Again, this is a great opportunity to view a piece of history, to note the dedication of those who preserved it and to honor the courage and sacrifices of all our veterans. We thank them for their service.