4th Annual Veterans Ceremony On Santa Monica Pier To Be 'Biggest Ever'

SANTA MONICA, CA — To celebrate Veterans Day, the City of Santa Monica will join the U.S. Army for a Veterans Day ceremony on the world-famous Santa Monica Pier.

Residents are invited to the fourth-annual event that organizers said is the city's biggest Veterans Day celebration yet. The free event will take place on Friday, Nov. 10 at the Santa Monica Pier Parking Deck.

"As Santa Monica’s mayor, I have a great appreciation for the protections afforded to our community because of the selfless service of our military," Mayor Gleam Davis said. "And as the mother of a veteran myself, I know the physical and emotional costs that come with the job. I’m pleased to join with my community to take time to recognize the bravery and sacrifice of those who safeguard our freedoms at home and abroad."

During the event, residents will be able to enjoy:

• Blackhawk and Chinook helicopters flyover
• West Point Drill Team Demonstration
• The 300th Army Band performance
• Performance of “God Bless America” by Miss USO Heidi-Marie Ferren
• National anthem performed by singer Christena Rich
• Humvees & JLTVs display
• Concert by Army rock band Brave the Night and Rusty de la Croix blues band
• Keynote speech by Deputy Under Secretary of the Army Mario Diaz
• Remarks from Santa Monica Mayor Gleam Davis
• Remarks from Congressman Ted Lieu
• Soldier swearing-in ceremony by Major General Dianne Del Rosso
• Remarks from Principal Deputy Under Secretary for Benefits Michael Frueh
• Free ride tickets for veterans and active military members (courtesy of Pacific Park)
• Free meals for veterans and active military members (courtesy of Meals on Wheels)

"We should always remember that freedom is not free. With all the tragic events currently happening around the world, it’s even more important for us to honor and show our gratitude to our veterans and military members who continue to dedicate their lives to defending our freedom," said Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army Sonki Hong,