Keynote speaker Col. Kenneth Hughey, Retired U.S. Air Force (94 years old) shared 4 stories about Veterans he’s known and loved, and his deep emotions about being a Veteran (Photo: Redondo Beach Veterans Memorial)

With 2023 coming to a close, Tom Lasser, Chairman of the Redondo Beach Veterans Memorial Task Force, expressed gratitude to the community for their support and dedication to the mission of honoring Veterans. In a message, Lasser reflected on the recent Veteran’s Day Tribute, appreciating the turnout and shared commitment to recognizing the sacrifices of those who have served our country.

The Veteran’s Day Tribute, hosted by the City of Redondo Beach in collaboration with the Veterans Memorial Task Force and the Redondo Beach Elks Lodge, took place on Saturday, November 11, in Veterans Park. The event was marked by reflections, remembrances, and honors for former Service Members, showcasing the respect and appreciation the community holds for its Veterans.

The keynote speaker for the occasion was Col. Kenneth Hughey, a local resident and retired Air Force fighter pilot who shared his experiences as a prisoner of war in North Vietnam for more than six years. His firsthand account added a deeply personal and emotional layer to the ceremony, emphasizing the sacrifices made by those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces.

Redondo Beach’s dedication to honoring Veterans was further recognized by the VA’s Veterans Day National Committee, selecting the city as one of the regional sites for this year’s commemorations. During the ceremony, the city received a certificate acknowledging its commitment to honoring and remembering the contributions of Veterans.

The event was attended by local officials, including Assemblymember Al Muratsuchi, Mayor Bill Brand, and other officials. The 562nd Air National Guard Band of the West Coast provided a musical backdrop throughout the ceremony. Following the ceremony, a barbecue allowed attendees to come together.

Lasser expressed thanks to the collective time, effort, and passion of all those who played a role in making the vision for the Veterans Memorial a reality. As the holiday season approaches, Lasser also extended warm wishes to Veterans, their families, and all who support them.

“May this season be filled with peace, joy, and the warmth of cherished memories,” said Lasser.

Looking ahead, Veterans and the community are invited to participate in Redondo Beach’s Memorial Day Ceremony at the Veterans Memorial in Veterans Park on Monday, May 27. It is an opportunity for the public to once again come together and pay homage to those who have served.

Readers can find pictures from the 2023 Redondo Beach Veterans Memorial ceremony and stay informed about next year’s event on the dedicated website here.

Author: Rikki Almanza

Rikki is a Web Content Coordinator for the American Legion, Department of California. With a deep-rooted connection to the military, a spouse who is a Navy veteran, a father who served in the Air Force for 25 years, and a grandfather who proudly served, Rikki is committed to using her skills and knowledge to provide valuable assistance and resources to servicemembers and veterans.