It’s not too late for Southwest Louisiana residents who love and support America to celebrate their stalwart devotion. Mayor and Mrs. Nicholas E. Hunter and the City of Lake Charles Mayor’s Armed Forces Commission (MAFC) will host the 15th Annual Red, White, Blue, and You Patriot’s Ball Saturday, July 1, in the Buccaneer Room at the Lake Charles Civic Center.

The Patriot’s Ball is the main annual fundraising event for the Mayor’s Armed Forces Commission (MAFC) which supports area veterans, patriotic projects and activities. So far this year the MAFC has presented the Vietnam Welcome Home Ceremony, a Flag Retirement Ceremony and are planning a Veteran’s Day Program and Parade for Southwest Louisiana. Other events will be announced.

The Ball begins at 5:30 p.m. with a social half-hour. Dinner is at 6.

Eagle Awards

According to MAFC President James Dodd, the following individuals will be honored with prestigious Eagle Awards:

Richard Morgan, U.S. Marines, Military Patriot of the Year; Jane Rawls, First Responder Patriot of the Year; Louisiana Mortgage, Civilian Patriot of the Year; Master Sergeant Roy. C. Sanders, U.S. Air Force, Posthumous Patriot of the Year.

A diverse selection of dance music, sure to suit all tastes will be provided by the Supersoakers. Dress is formal.

During the evening’s events, Miss Armed Forces 2023, Kayla McElfresh will be introduced. Miss Armed Forces represents Lake Charles’ Red, White, Blue and You and the Mayor’s Armed Forces Commission at events, festivals, and fairs across the state to promote patriotism and honor veterans and members of the Armed Forces. McElfresh and other royalty were selected at a pageant held Saturday, May 20. Those crowned include Teen Miss Lindsy Brandon; Jr. Miss Zailey Oliver; Young Ms. Layla Mulligan; Deb Miss Rileigh Cowan; Little Miss Mayve Miller; Petite Miss Alyvia Carrazco; Tiny MIss Ayda Jac; Toddler Miss Amilya Dietz and Baby Miss Amelia Carrazco.

Tickets are now available for purchase at the Lake Charles Civic Center Box Office (card, cash or check made payable to the Community Foundation). Cost is $50 per ticket. For more information, contact Tanya Senegal, MAFC Liaison, (337) 491-1383.