Alamogordo Veterans Gathering at Trinity Turtle Healing Labyrinth Park This Saturday

Alamogordo, NM — The Trinity Turtle Healing Labyrinth Park will host a free community event honoring active duty military members, veterans, and their families this Saturday, May 16, 2026. The Armed Forces, Active Duty and Veterans Day Gathering promises an evening of healing, gratitude, good food, and heartfelt recognition in a peaceful outdoor setting.

Dawn Barraco and Tresa VanWinkle of CAPPED.org and the park joined KALHRadio.org's Anthony Lucero to invite the public to the special gathering. The event combines the therapeutic power of the labyrinth with community connection and a special tribute to those who serve.

Full Event Schedule

• 5:30 PM – Gathering Begins
Attendees are encouraged to arrive early and walk the large outdoor labyrinth. The park features a unique turtle-shaped design with the completed Children’s Labyrinth (head) and the developing body and tail sections. Labyrinth walking is known to significantly reduce stress (by up to 80%), decrease agitation (69%), lower anxiety (73%), help normalize blood pressure, and strengthen relationships when shared with others. It’s a perfect space for quiet reflection, mindfulness, and emotional healing.

• 6:30 PM – Hotdogs & Chips Social Time
The barbecue grills will fire up and hotdogs and chips will be served. This relaxed portion of the evening is designed for socializing, storytelling, and building connections in the beautiful park setting. Bring lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy the evening under the desert sky.

• 7:30 PM – Coin Ceremony
As the sun sets, a special Coin Ceremony will honor active duty service members and veterans. Organizers will present commemorative coins as a small token of gratitude. Veterans and active service members may choose which coin they would like while supplies last. These coins serve as lasting keepsakes and reminders of the community’s deep appreciation.

The entire event is family-friendly, open to everyone — active duty, veterans, families, friends, and the broader community. Well-behaved pets are welcome in the park (but not on the labyrinth paths to keep them clean for barefoot walkers). There is plenty of open space for groups and families.

“This is a place where wonderful things happen — healing, peace, and community connection,” Barraco emphasized. Organizers hope to fill the park with people to create a warm, welcoming atmosphere and sincerely thank those who have served our nation.

Location: Trinity Turtle Healing Labyrinth Park, 7440 Highway 54/70, Alamogordo, NM (west side of the highway).

The event is completely free. Attendees are encouraged to bring family and friends and help spread the word to maximize participation.

The full interview with Dawn Barraco is available for streaming here:

https://youtu.be/sLFQCgj-Evg

For more information, visit the Trinity Turtle Healing Labyrinth Park on Facebook or contact organizers through CAPPED.org. Come walk the labyrinth, enjoy good company and food, witness the sunset ceremony, and help honor the brave men and women who serve our country. All are welcome!

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