LA CROSSE, Wisconsin (WXOW) - The 5th Annual Freedom Fest is this Saturday.
While there's plenty of music, food, and activities, the focus is about those who serve.
Logistics Health CEO Don Weber, who organized Freedom Fest, says he wanted to remember and honor those who serve. And to find ways to help them once they return from service.
Weber, who served in the Marines in Vietnam, says unless you've experienced war, it can be difficult to understand what service people live with even after their service is complete. "And we need to help them. We need to help them transition back into society. They want to be like all of us, they really do. I've been blessed. I worked through it. And, so, this is just one little way to say, we're never going to forget you and your families."
Proceeds from the Fest go to veterans causes such as scholarships to UW System schools to help veterans further their education.
The event begins with a motorcycle ride through the area gathering at the UW-La Crosse complex at 10:30am with the ride beginning an hour later.
The gates at UW-L open at 3:00pm. The first round of entertainment comes from the 451st Army Band. That's followed by the opening ceremonies at 4:00pm.
The Remainders take the stage at 4:30pm, with Foreigner at 6:30pm. At 8:00pm is the Fallen Heroes Tribute. Next comes the Steve Miller Band at 8:45pm with the evening ending with a 10:15pm fireworks show.
More information on Freedom Fest can be found at www.freedomfestlacrosse.com
