DOWNEY — The 249th United States Marine Corps Birthday and Veterans Day Celebration lit up Downtown Downey with heartfelt tributes, camaraderie, and gratitude last week.

Hosted for the 13th consecutive year by Bastards Canteen, the event drew more than a thousand veterans, their families, community members, and city officials together in an inspiring and inclusive celebration of service and sacrifice.

Since its inception in 2012, this annual gathering has grown exponentially, transforming from a small gathering at Bastards Canteen into a large-scale downtown celebration. This year, the festivities spanned from 2nd to 4th Street, encompassing all of 3rd Street. With over 20 veteran resource booths, the event provided free services and support to veterans and their families, underscoring its commitment to empowering those who have served.

At the heart of the event was Veterans Stand Together (VST), a nonprofit organization founded by veterans for veterans. VST focuses on addressing challenges such as homelessness, PTSD, and substance abuse, offering resources like vocational training and employment opportunities. Their mission is to foster a supportive community where every veteran feels empowered and connected.

The celebration featured speeches from notable guests, including the event’s guest of honor, a Marine infantryman and combat veteran who served in both the Marine Corps and Navy. Downey native Mike Beltran, a Marine veteran and celebrity UFC referee, addressed the crowd alongside Downey Pro Tem Mayor Hector Sosa and several City Council members. A highlight was the announcement that Downey is now officially a Purple Heart City, a designation greeted with cheers and applause.

The festivities included live performances by local bands, a beer garden where veterans shared stories and reconnected, and the traditional Marine Corps cake-cutting ceremony. The ceremony, led by a Marine veteran color guard, honored the oldest and youngest Marines present, symbolizing the enduring bond across generations of service.

The event highlighted Downey’s unique commitment to its veteran community. As a centerpiece of Southern California’s efforts to honor those who served, Downey’s Marine Corps Birthday and Veterans Day Celebration has become a cherished tradition, uniting veterans and the community in respect, gratitude, and celebration.

Bastards Canteen and Veterans Stand Together look forward to continuing this powerful tribute, ensuring the legacy of service and sacrifice is honored for years to come.