Manhattan Beach Honors Veterans
Nov 11, 2024 06:51PM ● By Jeanne Fratello
(Vietnam veteran and former Manhattan Beach Mayor Bob Holmes speaks at the Veterans Day Ceremony on Monday.)
The city of Manhattan Beach honored veterans on Monday at its 27th Annual Veterans Day Ceremony, drawing a crowd of more than 200.
Led by Mayor Amy Howorth, the ceremony included the Presentation of the Colors by the Manhattan Beach Police Department Honor Guard, the national anthem sung by the Manhattan Beach Middle School Choir, and the Pledge of Allegiance and brief remarks by Reed Mitchell of Boy Scout Troop 849.
The crowd included veterans of all ages, from all areas of service - including 93-year-old Marine Al Tempongko, who fought in the Korean War and received the Purple Heart for his wounds in 1951.
(Marine Veteran Al Tempongko and Lance Corporal David Farr)Troop 849 Boy Scout Wesley Vokoun told the crowd that he had interviewed veterans about what their service meant to them. "They said it taught them to value friendship and freedom and made them value life more," Vokoun said. "And when I asked them what makes them feel most honored as a veteran, they all said the same thing: When people thank them for their service."
Former Mayor Bob Holmes, a veteran of the Vietnam War, gave the keynote address, reflecting on his time in Vietnam. "Please consider military service," he told the crowd. "Whether or not you make it a career, the discipline, self-reliance, and confidence you receive - not to mention excellent training - will serve you well throughout your life. Plus, your country needs the best and brightest."
(Former Mayor Bob Holmes with the current City Council)
Veterans Day 2024 [9 Images]
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