It’s been said that “we often take for granted the very things that most deserve our gratitude.” Indeed, in our everyday lives that statement certainly rings true. But on this Veterans Day, hundreds gathered in Mission Viejo to honor the bravery and sacrifice of all U.S. veterans and embrace the freedom we hold so dear.
About 400 people assembled at the Mission Viejo Veterans Memorial where bagpipes and drums stirred the deepest emotions, patriotism wafted through the air and veterans stood tall, passing the legacy on.
Mayor Trish Kelley welcomed the legions of residents, veterans, family members and friends. Saddleback Church Pastor Rick Warren gave a poignant invocation that was followed by a Marine Color Guard compliments of the Headquarters Battalion First Marine Division.
The respectful mid-afternoon affair was about paying tribute to those gallant men and women who willingly answered their country’s call – and who paid the ultimate price.
Colonel Rudy Janizcek echoed the day’s meaning and the sacrifices of so many. Janizcek is the commander of Mission Viejo’s adopted Headquarters Battalion First Marine Division. Congressman Gary Miller followed by addressing a sea of veterans in attendance.
During the ceremony, Carroll E. “Snuffy” Brown, a resident and retired Marine Corps major, was proclaimed a Mission Viejo “Hometown Hero” and received a proclamation from the City and special American flag and congressional certificate from Congressman Miller. The 24-year military pilot served in three wars and is an active member of Mission Viejo’s Marine Adoption Committee.
Following the veterans’ recognition, the Orange County Fire Authority Pipes and Drums performed “Amazing Grace” and the Veterans of Foreign War Post 6024 provided the rifle salute, while Orange County Sheriff’s Department Deputy David Sa followed playing Taps.
American Heroes Tribute banners honoring Mission Viejo residents and others who died while serving their country were on display. The American Heroes Tribute, a local non-profit organization that honors military personnel, answered questions and provided information about custom banner opportunities.
The City’s Marine Adoption Committee and the Teens for Marines touted the upcoming “Tee it Up Fore Marines” Golf Tournament on March 25, and several residents ended Mission Viejo’s special Veterans Day ceremony by enjoying refreshments inside the Norman P. Murray Community and Senior Center.
Another job well done! Thank you City of Mission Viejo for putting together such a wonderful worthwhile program.
Snuffy – you are awesome and thank you for all you have accomplished in your life time. The City of Mission Viejo is very lucky to have a “hero” like you living in our community. I am proud to be an extended “families” member as a veteran and Mission Viejo resident!
If you weren’t “blown away” by that inspiring speech by Col. Janizcek this past Veterans Day (11/11/10) , you have to have been asleep. It was absolutely awesome; but I thought the same last year when the Commanding Officer of Camp Pendleton delivered his Veterans Day speech.
You can say what you want about the military leadership of this country, but lacking intelligence, inspiration and leadership cannot be in the description.
Col. Janizcek, could have said, “follow me”, and at least 90% of the attendence would have gotten up and followed him wherever he was going. He was just terrific!
Congrats to “Snuffy” Brown…he earned his honor and I’m proud that he is a member of our VFW Post 6024. He’s one of a kind, to say the least.
It is always nice to see our Congressional Rep. Gary Miller attend (again) and to have Saddleback Church pastor Rick Warren on hand…what a special treat to have him there to introduce his personal friend “Snuffy”.
What can you say about the OCFD Pipes and Drum Corps?…incredible talent! And the VFW Post 6024 Rifle Squad at the finale rifle salute…awesome!
And of course the Mission Viejo City Council…and Mayor Trish Kelley as M.C. ; everybody did a wonderful job.
It was a wonderful day (weather including) to remember those veterans who served before us, who serve currently and those who will serve bravely to keep this nation the best God ever permitted to exist.
Tom Goodall