Client News

Honoring Heroes

Salinas Valley Tribune

City celebrates veterans with hometown heroes ceremony

Publication: Salinas Valley Tribune, by Ryan Cronk
Date: November 13, 2024
Client: City of Gonzales
City of Gonzales

In a heartfelt tribute, the City of Gonzales honored 28 local veterans and active-duty service members during a special Hometown Heroes ceremony last week at Central Park.

The Nov. 6 event, held in partnership with the American Legion Post 81 and the American Legion Auxiliary Unit 81, included a brief program and the unveiling of "Hometown Heroes" signs featuring each service member's photo, name and branch of service.

"Today in Gonzales, the community unveiled beautiful and fitting tributes to their veterans just ahead of Veterans Day," said Monterey County Supervisor Chris Lopez, who was in attendance.

"This tribute is a way to remember the sacrifices of our loved ones and their contributions to our freedom and way of life. Thank you to all those who made today possible; may we never forget the sacrifices and never stop repaying the debt we owe," added Lopez.

In a social media post afterward, the City expressed its gratitude, saying, "We would like to thank everyone that joined us today for our Hometown Heroes ceremony and also to those that served our country. Lastly, a special thank you to the American Legion Post 81 and the American Legion Auxiliary Unit 81, who generously contributed towards the cost of each sign."

The Hometown Heroes program and the event aimed to recognize and pay tribute to those who have put their lives on the line in service to the country.

After the ceremony, attendees were invited to a Veterans Assembly hosted by the Fairview Middle School ASB leadership class and advisers. Following the assembly, coffee and pastries were served at the American Legion Post 81 Hall.

The Hometown Heroes signs will remain on display at Central Park through November.

About City of Gonzales

The city of Gonzales, California is located in Monterey County.  The quaint and culturally diverse community of approximately 9,000 people is in the heart of the Salinas Valley’s agricultural and wine region. Gonzales is an established regional leader in agricultural-technology and innovation, environmental awareness and sustainable practices.  Gonzales is home to companies such as HealthySoil, which manufactures products to improve agricultural crop production; Converted Organics, a natural fertilizer company; Taylor Farms, a fresh vegetable production facility, Mann Packing/Del Monte Fresh, a leading supplier of fresh cut vegetables; Ramsay Highlander, an innovator, designer and manufacturer of technologically-advanced harvesting equipment; Papé Equipment Handling, Braga Fresh, Green Valley Farm Supply, Tessemae’s, American Bioscience, Caraccioli Cellars, and Constellation Brands, an international producer and marketer of beer, wine and spirits.