“No sense in leaving it in the closet,” he said as he walked in the green pants, jacket and hat to the park’s war memorial.
The ceremony, which began with a band performance, a flyover involving restored World War II planes and a kindergarten class’ enthused rendition of the national anthem, honored veterans and served as a reminder to community members of their service, said Mickey DePalo, chairman of the city’s veterans commemorative committee.
“I don’t think we should ever forget our veterans,” said DePalo, a retired Army military police sergeant. “And shame on us if we do.”
About 350 community members, students and veterans attended the event, which highlighted the sacrifices that servicemen and women make for the country.
Rep. Adam Schiff, Assemblyman Paul Krekorian and Mayor Dave Golonski all addressed the audience, along with keynote speaker Lt. Col. Michael Gauron, of the Air Force.
Men and women in the armed forces not only defend the nation, Gauron said, they also deliver important medical care, humanitarian aid and manpower for infrastructure improvements in other parts of the world.
“The military troops in Iraq and Afghanistan are taking the place of nongovernmental organizations,” said Gauron, who served in Afghanistan, explaining that troops help to build roads and paint schools in areas that are too unsafe for aid organizations.
The contributions of troops in current conflicts and veterans from previous wars, many of whom interrupted career or educational progress to fight for their country, were important examples for others to follow, Krekorian said.
“Through your service, you remind us of the extraordinary potential of ordinary Americans,” he told the veterans in attendance.
Veterans Day brought a special pride to former troops in the audience, said retired Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Ken Green, explaining that it’s an important holiday to observe.
“I think we kind of owe it to our current troops to recognize what they’re doing,” said Green, who was attending his third annual ceremony at the park.
The day was humbling for 16-year-old Rebecca Johnson, a junior at John Burroughs High School, who said she recognized the sacrifices made by members of the military.
“We need to honor the people who have helped defend our country and our freedom,” Rebecca said.
ZAIN SHAUK covers education. He may be reached at (818) 637-3238 or by e-mail at zain.shauk@latimes.com.
