Post 84 Honors Community Heroes During Annual Memorial Day “Trip Around the Block”

July 10, 2026

Submitted By

Tony McDaniel

The Ira H. Hayes American Legion Post 84 carried on its longstanding tradition of remembrance with its annual Memorial Day “Trip Around the Block,” a solemn tour of significant memorial sites throughout the Gila River Indian Community. At each stop, members offered prayer, Auxiliary Unit 84 placed wreaths or flowers, and Post 84 delivered a 21 gun salute followed by the sounding of Taps.

Honoring Sgt. Kevin Lewis in Blackwater

The day began at the GRPD Sgt. Kevin Lewis monument in Blackwater, where Leslie Jackson opened with prayer. The monument, designed and directed by a Post 84 member, was built through the combined efforts of Post 84, Gila River Sand and Gravel, the Gila River Department of Transportation, and District 1 staff and maintenance crews.

Remembering Matthew B. Juan and Col. Cook

The second stop was Sacaton Presbyterian Church, where the graves of Matthew B. Juan and Col. Cook were honored. Chesley Juan Jr. offered the opening prayer.

Tributes at the Veterans Memorial Park

At the Matthew B. Juan / Ira H. Hayes Veterans Memorial Park, Steve Case led the prayer. Auxiliary Unit 84 placed wreaths at monuments honoring Matthew B. Juan, Ira H. Hayes, POW/MIA service members, Purple Heart recipients, Women Veterans, and Japanese American soldiers who enlisted from the Gila River Internment Camp during World War II.

Recognizing Fallen GRPD Officers

The fourth stop brought the group to the Gila River Police Department, where Bill Dixon offered prayer. Post 84 honored Sgt. Kevin Lewis, Officer Recruit Armando D. Reyes Jr., and Officer Joshua Briese, all of whom died in service to the Gila River Community. Members emphasized the importance of remembering emergency responders who continue to serve and protect the community every day.

Japanese Internment Camp Memorial

At the fifth stop, the Japanese Internment Camp, Bobby Flowers offered prayer. Post and Unit 84 honored the Japanese American internees who enlisted in the U.S. Military from within the camp, forming what would become the most decorated military unit of World War II.

Vah Ki Presbyterian Church in Bapchule

The sixth stop was Vah Ki Presbyterian Church, where Leonard Enos led prayer. The church, once attended by the family of Ira H. Hayes, is home to the original Ira H. Hayes Monument, built by parishioners and still standing today.

Saint Peter’s School and Mission

At Saint Peter’s School and Mission, Sister Martha offered prayer. The monument there honors District 5 World War II veterans, whose names are visible to all who exit the front doors of Saint Peter’s Church.

Honoring Billy Ferris

The final stop was the home of Billy Ferris, where Tony McDaniel offered prayer. Ferris was killed in action, giving his life in service to God, Country, Community, and family. His relatives have erected a memorial at the home of Liz and Larry Antone to ensure his sacrifice is never forgotten.

Post 84 extends its gratitude to all who continue to remember, honor, and memorialize those who gave everything for their community and their country.