Military personnel serving in conflict areas, their loved ones here at home and wounded veterans are eligible for complimentary wristbands good for free rides, hot dogs and sodas at the Central Oahu Carnival.

The carnival, produced by E.K. Fernandez Shows and co-sponsored by the city, will continue through tomorrow at Central Oahu Regional Park.

Mayor Mufi Hannemann said it is important to remember the troops who have served abroad and to recognize the tremendous sacrifices they and their families are making. He said the gifts are a small but sincere gesture of appreciation and gratitude.

The wristbands will be available to soldiers and family members who are part of the Wounded Warriors program or the Blue Star Card program through Schofield Barracks. Wristbands will be distributed from noon to 2 p.m. tomorrow to those who have already pre-registered for the event and will be good for unlimited rides from noon to 4 p.m.

The hot dogs are being provided by U.S.O., and the soda is being donated by Pepsi Bottling Group.

The carnival will open at noon today and tomorrow. Closing times will be late tonight and at 10 p.m. tomorrow. Admission is free. Wristbands for unlimited rides on Sunday from 5-10 p.m. are $18 and available only at Ticketmaster outlets in Times Supermarkets.

Carnival rides include the Cliff Hanger, Crazy Plane, Helicopter, Merry-Go-Round, Mini-Coaster, Spring Ride, Super Slide, Traffic Jam, Century Wheel, Pharaoh's Fury, Scooter and Zipper.