The City of Palmdale to Host Annual Veterans Day Ceremony

PALMDALE, CA - The City of Palmdale invites residents to a heartfelt tribute to honor the brave men and women who have served our country. Join us and share your gratitude and respect at our annual Veterans Day Ceremony on Monday, November 11, at 11 a.m. at Poncitlán Square, located at 38315 9th St. East. The ceremony is free and open to the public.

Veterans Day is an opportunity for the community to honor America's veterans for their patriotism, love of county and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good.

"It is an honor to recognize the sacrifices made by our veterans," said Mayor Austin Bishop. "Their selflessness is truly inspiring, and this ceremony gives us a chance to express our deepest gratitude and respect."

The ceremony will open with introductions by Assistant City Manager Sal Mendez. The Color Guard, led by the U.S. Army, will present the colors, and Pastor Peter Mordh from New Life Church will offer an elegant Invocation.

A moving rendition of the National Anthem will be sung by Alex Money, and Hunter Alan Gomez, Quartz Hill Young Marines master sergeant, will lead the Pledge of Allegiance. Palmdale's City Councilmembers will present a poignant Veterans Day reading, and American Legion Post 348 Vice Commander Carl Hernandez will recite a thoughtful poem to honor the commitment of our veterans. Following the readings, a Veterans Appreciation Plaque will be unveiled.

The program will feature an inspiring speech by Fred Barthe', our 2024 Tom Hilzendeger Veteran of the Year, who served as a combat aircrewman in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War and later as a lieutenant commander in the U.S. Coast Guard Reserve. His speech will be followed by a powerful performance of the Armed Forces Medley. The ceremony will close with inspiring remarks by Gerry Price, Vets4Veterans president.

"I look forward to once again recognizing our veterans' invaluable contributions to our country," said Mayor Pro Tem Richard J. Loa. "Palmdale will forever remember and honor the valiant dedication of our veterans."

Let's stand united in honoring our heroes this Veterans Day and celebrating the spirit of service that continues to protect our way of life.

Free parking is available for attendees throughout the park. For more information, please contact the Parks and Recreation department at 661-267-5611 or [email protected].