Molly Shore
A surprise is in store for those who attend the city's Veterans
Day ceremony, where Rep. Adam Schiff (D-Burbank) will make a special
presentation to a World War II veteran.
Joining Schiff, who declined to identify the recipient until the
ceremony at 11 a.m. Monday, are Rep. Brad Sherman (D-Mission Hills),
state Sen. Jack Scott (D-Burbank), Assemblyman Dario Frommer
(D-Burbank) and Mayor David Laurell with other City Council members.
Because of redistricting, Sherman will represent about half of
Burbank starting in January.
"The city has always put on meaningful ceremonies, drawing crowds
from as far away as San Diego," said Vietnam veteran Mickey DePalo,
chairman of Burbank's Veterans Commemorative Committee. "After the
events of Sept. 11, 2001, the ceremony has become even more
significant."
A catalog of clippings commemorating Burbank military personnel
who died in battle will be on display. Resident and genealogist Linda
Mustion compiled the book.
The World War II-era Condor Squadron based at the Van Nuys Airport
will fly over, and members of Disabled American Veterans Chapter 40
will present the color guard and gun salute.
At the ceremony, Hands Across the Battlefield will accept items
for care packages to send to armed forces overseas, DePalo said.
Donations can be hard candy, pre-packaged snack food, writing
tablets, pens and shaving equipment, as well as cash donations.
At the 43rd annual Veterans Day tribute at Forest Lawn-Hollywood
Hills, Marine Corps retired Lt. Gen. John Rhodes will offer the
keynote address. The ceremony begins at 11 a.m. Monday at the Court
of Liberty, 6300 Forest Lawn Drive.
The Celtic band Clann An Drumma will perform several songs, along
with the Notre Dame High School marching band and Celebration USA's
Catch the Spirit singers. The Vietnam War Historical Society will
present the color guard.
