DOWNEY - The city of Downey gathered to celebrate and honor those who have served the country at a Veteran’s Day ceremony held at the Columbia Memorial Space Center on Monday.

The event included participation from all city councilmembers, Assemblywoman Blanca Pacheco, former Mayor and Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army Mario Guerra, American Legion Post #270, Boy Scout Troop #441, Cub Scout Pack #805, Girl Scout Cadette Troop#5605, and current members of the military.

Mayor Trujillo said that “those who live in freedom will always be grateful to those who helped preserve it.”

“Saying thankful to our veterans with ceremonies such as this one is only a small acknowledgment to all they have done for us,” said Trujillo. “Thank you for putting your life on hold to serve our country.”

Assemblywoman Pacheco said that those in attendance were gathered “not just to celebrate, but pay honor to our veterans.”

“Each of you has answered the call to serve, and your courage and dedication have protected our freedoms,” said Pacheco.

She continued,

“As we reflect on the sacrifices made by our veterans, let us remember that our support for them does not end today. We must continue to advocate for their needs and to honor their contributions every single day of the year.”

American Legion Post #270 Post Commander Ray Gard, after giving the history of Veteran’s Day’s inception, said the message to American veterans was “we will never forget you.”

Two veterans – veteran James Higuera and active Army Sgt. Maj. Sam Lee – were honored specifically.

Higuera told veterans “today is a day that I honor you as you honor me for my service.”

“It is indeed an honor that makes me very humble in accepting today, but this recognition is for all of us; every single one of us, and that goes for the families of the veterans that served.”

Lee thanked Downey “for raising me,” and the veterans who came before him, who inspired him to join.

The ceremony also included – as it has commonly beforehand – an official swearing-in of soldiers; this time, eight men into the California National Guard.

Major Ryan Kam described the national guard as “citizen soldiers.”

“Not only are we members of the fighting force that makes this nation great, but we’re also part of your communities,” said Kam. “A lot of time you think of the military, you think of defenders of freedom; we go overseas and do some good work for the safety and security of our nation.

“But in the National Guard, we’re also members of your community, so there’s a lot of times where the community needs us and we’re there. Whether that’s disaster relief, civil unrest, or even just presenting opportunities for the youth.”