As we approach Nov. 11, a significant date etched in history, we prepare to commemorate Veterans Day, dedicated to paying tribute to the brave people who have served our nation in the armed forces and fought for our freedoms and liberty; for this reason, I want to recognize the invaluable contributions of our veterans.
Veterans Day holds a special place in our hearts in Santa Cruz and the entire nation. It is a day when we pause to remember and honor the heroes who have selflessly sacrificed for our country. We mark this day on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, a poignant reminder of the Armistice that ended World War I.
President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed Nov. 11 as Veterans Day in 1919. For two full minutes, businesses across the nation came to a standstill as Americans took a moment to remember their loved ones who had fought in the war.
Nov. 11, we can stand up to honor those who have given so much to our community and our country through their service in the armed forces. It’s been 104 years since that proclamation, and we continue to build on the tradition that we have fostered — a tradition where each year, we come together to pay special tribute to our fellow city and county workers and the broader Santa Cruz community who have served our nation.
This year, on November 11th, 2023, at 11 AM, we will gather in the City Hall Courtyard for our City and County Veterans Day Ceremony. This event is an expression of our gratitude and respect for our veterans. It’s an opportunity for our community to come together, to reflect on the sacrifices made, and to show our support. During the ceremony, we will be joined by the Santa Cruz Police Department and Sheriff’s Office Joint Honor Guard, local veterans, local organizations, and members of the Santa Cruz community. It’s a powerful reminder of how our community stands stronger because of the dedication and bravery of these people.
Also, there is a special collection available through our Santa Cruz Public Libraries. Remembering Our Own: the Santa Cruz County Military Roll of Honor 1861-2010. This collection is a remarkable effort, primarily compiled from the work of local researcher Robert L. Nelson. The primary purpose of this work is to provide a memorial obituary for military personnel of Santa Cruz County who died while serving on active duty in the Armed Forces during a period of war when it was common for no public obituary to be published. The Santa Cruz Public Libraries has been operating the Veterans Information Center for the past six years, and more information is available on their website www.santacruzpl.org/veterans/. Please join me in remembering the lives of those lost.
As we gather at the City Hall Courtyard on November 11th, let us remember our veterans’ courage, sacrifice, and resilience and those highlighted in the Santa Cruz County Military Roll of Honor. Together, we can ensure that the legacy of our veterans lives on, that their stories are told, and that their service is never forgotten; our freedom depends on it.
Fred Keeley is the mayor of Santa Cruz.
