LV events to salute veterans this weekend

Las Vegas area resorts, agencies and veterans groups will begin their weekend salute to troops Friday when 80 wounded warriors and their families arrive for a Walk of Gratitude at the Mirage followed by four days of fun, entertainment and activities in their honor.

The event, sponsored by MGM Resorts International with American Airlines and the USO, is one of many this weekend offered to veterans by various businesses and organizations that includes free dining, free access to Red Rock Canyon, and even free legal advice on benefits.

“We know the sacrifices these men and women make every day and are grateful for their service,” MGM Chairman and CEO Jim Murren said, announcing the 4 p.m. arrival of the wounded warriors at the Mirage.

Veterans can speak to a volunteer attorney for free about increasing disability ratings, appealing claim denials and spouse’s benefits. The clinic hosted by ABA Young Lawyers Division of Project Salute will be from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday at Palace Station. Project Salute is a collaboration of the Nevada Supreme Court Access to Justice Commission, the Young Lawyers Section of the State Bar of Nevada and Nevada Legal Services.

Station Casinos will also thank veterans and active duty military on Veterans Day, continuing its tradition of offering a free breakfast, lunch or dinner at all Feast or Festival locations at Boulder Station, Green Valley Ranch Resort, Palace Station, Red Rock Resort, Santa Fe Station, Sunset Station, Texas Station, Fiesta Henderson and Fiesta Rancho.

The Bureau of Land Management will waive fees to visitors at the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area on Veterans Day.

Las Vegas will be one of 38 U.S. cities participating in the National Veterans Day Run 10 a.m. Sunday at Floyd Lamb Park with proceeds from entering the 1-mile family walk, 5-kilometer, and 11-kilometer races going to the event’s charity partner, Folds of Honor Foundation for scholarships to support education for military families in each host city.

The Leatherneck Club on West Spring Mountain Road will welcome the 34th Marine Corps commandant, Gen. James Conway, who arrives 4 p.m. Friday at the club to greet Marines during a cake-cutting ceremony for the Corps’ 238th birthday, which is Sunday. He will also be the guest of honor at Saturday night’s birthday ball at the Orleans.