Bald Eagle, WWII Vets Steal the Show at Military Ball

We love a good celebration where we can dress up and put on our dancing shoes. Add photos with a majestic bald eagle? Sign us up for next year’s Colorado Military Ball. This year, around 300 Colorado National Guard participants and supporters gathered at the Radisson Hotel Denver-Aurora for a hearty dose of red, white and blue spirit—along with the opportunity to honor 100 years of modern-era service of Warrant Officers of the United States Army. It’s all about competence, character and commitment to these specialized managers and operators who command small units, provide expertise and advice, establish policy and manage resources in support of the Army and Department of Defense missions.

Pikes Peak Silver Chapter Warrant Officers

On Saturday, July 7, the celebration began with a reception featuring two photo opps: posing with a bald eagle, as well as in front of an American flag backdrop. Guests had the chance to catch up and chat while enjoying a small-plates buffet and beverages, with opportunities to win giveaways as well. The sit-down dinner program began with remarks by event co-chairs: The Adjutant General Colorado, Maj. Gen. Michael Loh; and State Command Chief Warrant Officer (Colorado Army National Guard) Steve Imeraj. Emcee Rick Crandall, radio personality and the force behind the creation of the Colorado Freedom Memorial, presided over the evening’s program that honored two World War II veterans: CW2 Richard Over, along with Sgt. George Faust of the Army Air Corps.

Radio personality Rick Crandall (left), with event chair CW5 Steve Imeraj

It wouldn’t be a birthday celebration without a cake, and the youngest and oldest warrant officers in attendance were invited to participate in the ceremonial cake cutting. The evening ended with “dancing and merriment” led by DJ Sgt. 1st Class Caleb Jeffres, spinning tunes designed to get the crowd up and on their feet.

To learn more about the Colorado National Guard, please visit: CO.NG.mil.