The City of Oxnard, together with the Disabled American Veterans – Chapter 24, Vietnam Veterans of Ventura County, Salvation Army, Knights of Columbus Council 750, Military Officers Association of America Ventura County Chapter and the Boy Scouts of America – Troop 231, invited the entire community to attend this year’s Veterans Day Ceremony at Plaza Park (500 South C St.) to honor and remember all who have served our country.
The event marked the 32nd anniversary of the installation of the Veterans Memorial that was led by the late Dr. Manuel M. Lopez who served on the city council for about 14 years and was also mayor of Oxnard.
On Saturday, Nov. 11, 2023, an outdoor ceremony took place at 11 a.m. next to the Veterans Memorial at Plaza Park. Featured speakers include Captain Robert”Barr” Kimnach III, Commanding Officer, Naval Base Ventura County; Mayor John C. Zaragoza; Jess Herrera, President, Oxnard Harbor District; and Sal Gonzales, first lieutenant, US Army Veteran.
During the event, multiple people received recognition including a special recognition to Michael Viola.
“It’s an important Oxnard tradition to honor our local Veterans for their bravery in defending our freedom,” said Mayor John C. Zaragoza. “As someone who comes from a family with generations of members who’ve served in World War II, and more recently in Iraq and Afghanistan, we are forever grateful for their selfless service to our country. We very happy to honor and recognizing all who have served in the US Armed Forces on this holiday.”