Iwo Jima Flag Raising Parade 2024 Sacaton Arizona

Thanks for watching!
Aaron here, the guy behind the camera!
The day before, I was busy recording at the Ira Hayes Veterans Social Pow wow when I received an invitation to cover the parade! It was my first time exploring Sacaton, Arizona, and I had no idea about the upcoming parade. With my schedule open and the Grand Entry for the second day of the pow wow not starting until 6 pm, I decided to head to Sacaton the morning of the parade, arriving around 8:15 am.

Upon arrival, I met a veteran who was seated opposite the main stage. I inquired about a good spot to stand and record, and he suggested standing next to the stage. Initially, it provided a great view until more people gathered, inadvertently obstructing my camera's view as they searched for a good spot themselves. Tony McDaniel, who seems to be directing everyone at the event, looked at my camera and I, and said "You, go up there" as he pointed at the stage. I said thank you and went "up there."

My Parking Directions:
The Parade took place along Sacaton-Casa Blanca Rd, near Sacaton Rd, while the main stage was located north of The Ira Hayes Memorial Park, adjacent to Voak Dr. Upon arriving, I entered Sacaton from Casa Blanca Rd, turned right, and followed Bluebird Rd around the corner. Then, I turned left, heading north on Cholla Ave. Finally, I parked in the first DIRT parking spot I found near the intersection of Cholla and Voak. I hope these parking directions prove useful to anyone planning to visit next year! While there may be more official parking spots elsewhere in Sacaton, I parked at the spot I saw.

The second evening of the pow wow will be posted later today!

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