Taps was played to honor our veterans, leaving many in tears. Photo by Michael Gordon
On Wednesday, June 29 Cypress Place Senior Living hosted a special “Salute To Our Veterans” celebration with a ceremony recognizing residents of, as well as members of the public, who served their country. Over 250 people attended the powerful tribute.
A military Color Guard presentation by the 1st Memorial Honors Detail led off the tribute. Words of thanks were provided by Ventura City Councilmember Cheryl Heitmann, as well as Stephanie Caldwell, the President and CEO of the Ventura Chamber of Commerce.
Captain Chris Janke, Commanding Officer of Naval Base Ventura County, made the keynote presentation, which was followed by a special veteran recognition and recognition of widows, widowers, and parents of Veterans.
Ventura City Fire Chief David Endaya spoke on the importance of showing appreciation to veterans. He urged members of the audience to take the time to stop and personally thank active duty servicemen and woman whom they come across, a tradition his own family follows.
Speaker Ventura County Sheriff Geoff Dean pointed out the significance of the representatives from the offices of elected officials in attendance at the event. According to Dean, whether you agree with their political beliefs or not, the important thing is that citizens are able to vote to elect the officials, something that people in many countries around the world are still not able to do.
Veterans living at Cypress Place Senior Living received Certificates of Recognition from the office of California State Assembly Member Jacqui Irwin. Representatives were also on hand from the offices of United States Congresswoman Julia Brownley, as well as California State Senator Hannah-Beth Jackson.
Taps was played, leaving many in tears, and a flag was folded and presented to 102 year-old Cypress Place resident and retired United States Army Captain, Donald Wright, on behalf of all Veterans. The flag will be permanently displayed at the senior community.
The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Ventura City Assistant Fire Chief Matt Brock. Pamela Vincent led the audience in the National Anthem. Live musical entertainment and a free BBQ lunch followed the tribute, along with a special Veterans memorabilia display inside the community.
To learn more about Cypress Place Senior Living of Ventura please call 650-8000 or visit their web site at www.cypressplaceseniorliving.com.
