Wrightwood residents gathered on a chilly Veterans Day morning, Nov. 11, at 11 a.m., in front of the Veterans Memorial on Evergreen Street to honor those who have served or are currently serving in the Armed Forces. The ceremony featured traditions, performances, and tributes to military service and community members who supported the memorial.
The Wrightwood Veterans Association (WWVA) organized the event, led by President Allain Miller. The ceremony began with the ringing of the Armistice Bell at 11 a.m., a tradition marking the moment the World War I armistice took effect on Nov. 11, 1918. Ron Jaqua and David Schatz rang the bell 11 times, a symbolic gesture now central to the memorial observance.
The Fort Irwin Color Guard presented the colors, debuting new uniforms funded by WWVA T-shirt sales and other community fundraisers. Claudia Cambell sang the national anthem, followed by the community reciting the Pledge of Allegiance.
A moment of silence honored Kay Lavish, known as “The Mother of the Wrightwood Veterans Memorial,” and Harlin Lasiter, both of whom were dedicated volunteers for the memorial. Pastor Dave Conrad delivered the invocation, invoking blessings for the ceremony.
Music set a patriotic tone throughout the event. Manuel Almaguer, a talented new DJ in the community, played selections like “You Are My Hero” and “Angel’s Flight” over the loudspeaker. The Wrightwood Elementary School Choir performed patriotic songs, including “You’re a Grand Old Flag,” “This Land Is Your Land,” and “America the Beautiful.” Later, the songs of each military branch were played, with veterans from each branch standing to receive the community’s applause.
Keynote speaker LTC Bob Kay, USAF (Ret.), reflected on his gratitude for the 1% of Americans who protect the other 99% and shared his pride in his sons’ service in different branches of the military.
Quilts of Valor were presented to three veterans: Cpl. Ralph Alcaraz, 1st Lt. Robert Dever, and Maj. Patrick Deaver. During the ceremony, Sarah Bailey read the names of new Honor Bricks placed in the memorial walkway, commemorating veterans including Capt. Venard R. Jackson, Cpl. Robert L. Overton, and others.
The ceremony concluded with Christopher Johnson performing “Taps,” a wreath presentation by Girl Scout Troop 2249 and Bob and Ellie Kay, and a flag replacement by the Cadet Corps Color Guard. Cathy Schinhofen spoke about the Library of Congress Veterans History Project, which preserves veterans’ stories.
Pastor Conrad closed the event with a benediction. Attendees departed to the sound of “God Bless America,” reflecting on the community’s deep gratitude for its veterans.
