In a heartfelt tribute to the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving in the military, Los Angeles County stands united in a series of commemorative events and ceremonies. With speeches that inspire, parades that evoke patriotism, and solemn moments of remembrance, the county honors its fallen heroes and ensures their legacy lives on.
The first public event since 2019 at the Los Angeles National Cemetery sets the tone for Memorial Day commemorations. This year, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass will grace the occasion as one of the distinguished speakers. Her words will reverberate through the crowd as she recognizes the unwavering service of fallen military members and emphasizes the importance of supporting veterans in need. It is a call to action, urging the public to come together and extend a helping hand to those who served our nation.
The Los Angeles National Cemetery program promises a stirring experience with remarks from Maj. Gen. Evan Dertian, commander of the Air Force Test Center at Edwards Air Force Base. The 300th Army Band will fill the air with soul-stirring melodies, while displays by Buffalo Soldier and Civil War reenactors offer glimpses into the sacrifices of the past. It is a day to honor the memory of those who selflessly gave everything in service to their country.
Resuming after a three-year hiatus, the Canoga Park Memorial Day Parade returns, reigniting the spirit of unity and remembrance. The poignant ceremony will commence at the intersection of Sherman Way and Owensmouth Avenue, where a wreath-laying ritual will take place at the Wall of Honor. The wreath pays tribute to U.S. Air Force 1st Lt. Arthur “Skip” Bedal, whose life was tragically lost during a support mission in Vietnam in 1963. Sheryl-Jo Bedal, his daughter, will serve as the parade’s Vietnam War honoree, symbolizing the enduring sacrifice of military families.
The Canoga Park Memorial Day Parade, now in its 31st edition, will march along Sherman Way and Owensmouth Avenue, uniting a diverse array of participants. Honorees include the remarkable 100-year-old Ethel Margolin, a World War II Women’s Army Corps (WAC) veteran, Barney Leone, who witnessed the iconic flag-raising at Iwo Jima, and Joe Weber, a former U.S. Navy serviceman. The parade will feature captivating moments, such as a flyover by a C-130J Super Hercules military transport aircraft and the presence of the Naval Mobile Construction Battalion Three, also known as the Seabees.
As the day unfolds, communities across the county will gather to pay their respects through a range of ceremonies and observances. From Hawaiian Gardens to Lancaster, Lomita to Hollywood, each event holds special significance. Names will be read, processions will solemnly march, and performances will stir emotions. These gatherings serve as powerful reminders of the true meaning of Memorial Day, urging us to pause, reflect, and honor the bravery, selflessness, and sacrifice of our servicemen and women.
On this Memorial Day, let us join in prayer for everlasting peace while we unite in honoring the lives lost. We rededicate ourselves to the work they left unfinished and fulfill our commitment to serve the veterans in our community. May the spirit of remembrance and gratitude permeate our hearts, ensuring that the legacy of our fallen heroes shines bright for generations to come.
