Crowds file into Eternal Valley to honor veterans.

 

 

A slight chill was in the air Monday morning, as many Santa Clarita residents gathered at Eternal Valley to participate in a moving tribute to all Unites States military troops, past and present.

 

The Santa Clarita Valley Concert Band set the tone for the hour long event, playing patriotic tunes and each of the songs belonging to the military branches.

 

City Manager Ken Pulskamp served as Master of Ceremonies, while SCV Veterans Memorial Committee President David Zucker offered words of encouragement for our troops currently serving.

 

He also praised the public for supporting the troops; “Many of us on the committee served in the Vietnam and Cold War era. In those days we rarely heard civilians say ‘thank you for your service,’” he said. “But we knew, nonetheless, that our service was important, and worthy, even if not so acknowledged at the time. By paying your respects to our veterans on Memorial Day, you show visible support for those who served our country and in particular those who have died in service.” 

 

[view:node_ad=5]Two flyovers ramped up applause from the crowd. The first marked the beginning of the ceremony as World War Two era aircraft flew overhead. The second was a single plane’ however the U.S. Air force C-17 was so loud, it seemed to shake the ground as it passed.

 

Several of our Santa Clarita City Council Members were on hand for the event, including Mayor Bob Kellar and Council members Marsha McLean, Laurene Weste and Laurie Ender. Congressman Buck McKeon also participated, even speaking briefly to thank the troops and to thank all who attended.

 

The guest speaker was a 30 year veteran of the United States Army named Richard Casper, who shared some of his stories of his many years of service.

 

After an emotional rifle salute and taps presentation, the main event concluded. Directly following, all names inscribed on Eternal Valley’s Memorial Wall were read aloud.

 

To see all of the pictures from the event, click here.