Today marks a historic homecoming as POW/MIA soldier Orace Mestas returns home after 74 years, celebrating his 95th birthday with the honor and dignity he deserves.
Official poster for Orace Mestas’ 95th Birthday Celebration and homecoming ceremonyToday, June 17th, 2025, we bear witness to a moment 74 years in the making. At Colorado Homes & Designs, we are honored to host the homecoming celebration for American hero Orace Mestas, who went missing in action during the Korean War in 1951 and is finally returning home on his 95th birthday.
This is not merely a memorial service—this is a Celebration of Life for a man who answered his country’s call with unwavering faith and courage, and who deserves the proper recognition that has been 74 years overdue.
A Hero’s Long Journey Home
Orace Mestas was declared missing in action in 1951 during the Korean War conflict. For seven decades, his family waited, hoped, and never forgot their beloved serviceman. Today, on what would be his 95th birthday, we gather to provide the homecoming tribute he has always deserved.
As the founder of Earth Saving Solutions, our commitment to supporting America’s veterans runs deep in our company’s DNA. When the opportunity arose to host this sacred ceremony at our Colorado Homes & Designs showroom, it was an immediate and unequivocal yes. Some moments transcend business—this is one of them.
Today’s Ceremony: A Celebration Worthy of a Hero
Event Details
- Date: Today, June 17th, 2025
- Time: 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM
- Location: Colorado Homes & Designs
1015 E. 70th Ave, Denver, CO 80229 - Open to Public: All community members welcome
Military Honors
- Riderless Horse Honor Guard Ceremony featuring “Classy” with boots facing backward—a powerful symbol of a fallen soldier addressing his troops one final time
- Adams County Police Department Honor Guard presenting colors with full ceremonial protocol
- Playing of Taps in solemn tribute to his service and sacrifice
- FOLDS OF HONOR Quilt Presentation to Orace’s family, including his sister
Birthday Celebration
In addition to the military honors, we celebrate Orace’s 95th birthday with:
- Birthday cake celebration recognizing his milestone 95th birthday
- Music, food, and refreshments throughout the event
- Family reunion allowing nephews and nieces to finally honor their uncle
The 74-Hour Tribute: Honoring Every Year of Waiting
The ceremony extends beyond today’s formal program. We are displaying a P.O.W./M.I.A. Memorial Table for 74 continuous hours—one hour for each year Orace has been missing. This display will remain at our showroom on a red carpet of honor, allowing community members to pay their respects throughout the entire tribute period.
The memorial features 74 American flags—one for each year of his absence—and includes the ceremonial folding of an American flag to represent the 73,000 POW/MIA soldiers still unaccounted for across all conflicts, symbolizing hope and our nation’s commitment to never forget.
Community Unity in Action
This homecoming celebration exemplifies what happens when a community unites for a cause greater than itself. We are proud to stand alongside these distinguished sponsors who understand the sacred duty of honoring our veterans:
Event Hosts
- Colorado Homes & Designs
- Earth Saving Solutions
Military & Veteran Organizations
- American Legion Post 2
- FOLDS OF HONOR
- National Honor Tour
Community Partners
- NAPA Denver
- Hoffbrau Bar & Grill
- Perfect Landing Restaurant
- Fusion Signs & Design
- Scudder Press
- Qualified Listener
- Top Edge
- Kiowa Creek Coaches
Why Veteran Support Defines Earth Saving Solutions
Since establishing Earth Saving Solutions in 2008, supporting America’s veterans has been foundational to our mission. From the Pat Smith Project—where we renovated an 82-year-old Vietnam veteran’s home after tree damage—to our ongoing partnerships with veteran-owned businesses, we believe that serving those who served is not optional, it’s essential.
“We got your six, we got your back. In God we trust, and that’s a fact.”
This isn’t merely a company slogan—it’s the principle that guides every project we undertake. When families face their worst nightmares—whether from natural disasters, insurance complications, or overwhelming restoration needs—they need someone who will fight for them with the same dedication our veterans showed in defending our freedom.
The Continuing Journey
Today’s ceremony represents the beginning, not the end, of Orace’s final journey home. Following our celebration, he will be transported from Denver International Airport to Trinidad, Colorado, on June 18th, escorted by a procession of motorcycle riders and the Colorado State Patrol—an escort befitting his service and sacrifice.
On June 20th, Orace Mestas will finally be laid to rest in Trinidad, bringing closure to a 74-year chapter and allowing his family the peace they have long deserved.
Join Us in Honoring an American Hero
No invitation is required. No RSVP is necessary. Simply bring your respect, your gratitude, and your recognition of what this man represents—the very best of American service and sacrifice.
We encourage attendees to bring tissues—this will be an emotionally powerful tribute to a true American hero.
For additional information:
Janet Arce: 720-774-3368
About Earth Saving Solutions:
Website: essremodel.com
Phone: 720-309-5679
