SANTA ANA, Calif.—Over 3,000 locals and veterans gathered at Fairhaven Memorial Park and Mortuary to honor local heroes for their military service to the country on the morning of Memorial Day.
The ceremony on May 29 featured multiple local veterans, live musical performances, an aerial flyover, and a dove release, among other activities.
“We owe more than a debt of gratitude to our veterans,” event speaker and Navy Captain Robert Moran said to the crowd. “We owe [veterans] quite literally everything. Preservation of freedom comes at a tremendous cost, and we must ensure that their sacrifices are not in vain.”
Santa Ana Mayor Valerie Amezcua speaks on stage at Memorial Day celebrations in Fairhaven Memorial Park in Santa Ana, Calif., on May 29, 2023. (John Fredricks/The Epoch Times)
Moran was recognized during the ceremony for his personal awards including the Purple Heart, Navy Commendation Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, and numerous other awards….