The Grand Marshals and guest speakers were given certificates of recognition and plaques for their contributions. Pictured (l-r) at the Veterans Day ceremony are Fillmore Mayor Pro Tem Christina Villasenor, with Grand Marshals Ismael Alonzo and Victor Westerberg, and guest speaker former Police Chief and Marine veteran Richard “Dick” Diaz., Fillmore Knights of Columbus Grand Knight Bob Gradias and Supervisor Kelly Long’s Representative Manuel Minjares. Inset, Fillmore VFW leading the parade down Central Avenue. Inset photo credit Angel Esquivel-AE News.

Pictured are classic cars which carried Fillmore and Piru Veterans down Central Avenue in this year’s parade and future cadets marching to close out the parade with the Fillmore Police & Fire Departments following. Thank you for serving your country. Photo credit Angel Esquivel-AE News. One of the traditions was the presentation of each branch of service flag and medley. As each branch was recognized, the veterans of that branch stood and saluted as the medley played.

The Veterans Day Celebration was a huge success as the community paid homage to our local heroes on Friday, November 10th and Saturday, November 11th. The celebration began with a Concert at the Park at City Park on Friday evening. Mack and D started the night captivating the crowd of over 150 with their blend of pop, country, blues, and requests. The headliner was Ventura County’s own “Los Amigos” and they performed a variety of music from rock, cumbia, jazz, and country. Los Amigos are a talented troupe of professional musicians who have played with various artists over the years. Their style of music had the crowd jumping and dancing over the evening.

On Saturday, the Veterans Day Parade started with the Annual Veterans Day Parade hosted by the Fillmore Lions Club. Over 70 Veterans rode in classic cars and corvettes waving at the crowd as they cheered each veteran when they drove by. This year’s Grand Marshals were Victor Westerberg and Ismael Alonzo. Victor and Ismael are long time members of the Fillmore-Piru Veterans of Foreign War. Their dedication and commitment to the members are extraordinary as they work to provide services and information to our local veterans.

The parade was followed by the Annual Veterans Day Ceremony at Fillmore Middle School. The guest speaker was former Police Chief and Marine Veteran Richard “Dick” Diaz. Mr. Diaz shared his experiences serving in Viet Nam. He also discussed the importance of honoring and remembering our Veterans for their commitment and sacrifices to keep our country free. Many of our Veterans still experience physical and mental challenges and supporting them is an essential need to provide the care they need.

Supervisor Kelly Long’s Representative Manuel Minjares, and Fillmore Mayor Pro Tem Christina Villasenor were on hand to present certificates of recognition to Victor, Ismael, and Richard. The Fillmore Knights of Columbus Grand Knight, Bob Gradias presented them with plaques for their contributions.

One of the traditions was the presentation of each branch of service’s flags and medley. As each branch was recognized, the Veterans of their branch stood and saluted, many with tears running down their cheeks.

Music and sound were provided by Danny Ibarra and Danny Rodriguez for both events.

A delicious luncheon BBQ was served to over 200 guests attending the ceremony. Colette Golson and her staff provided a full coarse meal and dessert. Congratulations to Colette for providing such a wonderful meal. And, yes, Vets ate for free!
Kudos to the Veterans Day Committee for their hard work in making this such a success.