It will feature performances, a Chinook helicopter flyover, among other performances
The city of Santa Monica will join the U.S. Army to host its sixth annual Veterans Day ceremony on Tuesday, Nov. 11, at 11 a.m. on the Santa Monica Pier.
The event, held on the pier’s west parking deck, is free and open to the public. It will feature performances, a Chinook helicopter flyover, and the presentation of awards to Palisades Fire recovery heroes. Senior military officials, local leaders, and community members are expected to attend.
Among the speakers are General Bryan P. Fenton, commander of U.S. Special Operations Command, who will deliver the keynote address; retired Army Colonel Otto Padron; Santa Monica Mayor Lana Negrete; and City Councilmember and Army veteran Dan Hall.
The ceremony will also include a posting of colors by JROTC cadets from James Monroe High School, musical performances of the National Anthem by Master Sergeant Keith Beyer and “God Bless America” by Miss USO Heidi-Marie Ferren, and a future soldier swearing-in ceremony led by Major General Jeffrey Smiley, commanding general of the California Army National Guard.
In addition to the ceremony, veterans and active military members will receive free ride tickets courtesy of Pacific Park, as well as complimentary meals and information on meal resources provided by Meals on Wheels. Music and entertainment will be provided by 95.5 KLOS, sponsored by Meruelo Media.
“Veterans Day is not just a day on the calendar — it is a living reminder of the courage, sacrifice and steadfast devotion that have preserved our freedom for generations,” said Sonki Hong, civilian aide to the Secretary of the Army and organizer of the event. “Every veteran carries within them a story of honor and resilience, and through their service, they have written the very definition of patriotism. Today, and every day, we stand united in gratitude for those who answered the call to defend our nation.”
