Military and police veterans, members of the Burbank Veterans Committee, local leaders and the Burbank community gathered at the McCambridge Park War Memorial for “a time of song, word, remembrance and celebration” in honor of those who fell in the service of the U.S. military.
The event kicked off with a flyover by the Condor Squadron, sponsored by the Cusumano Real Estate Group. It was a coordinated spectacle put on by local aviation enthusiasts who conduct memorial flights “in restored North American Aviation AT-6/SNJ trainers originally flown during World War II,” according to the Condor Squadron’s website.
Then, a medley of armed forces tunes was played by the Burbank Community Band. Pat Walmisly, a member of the Burbank Veterans Committee, later delivered a vocal rendition of “God Bless America.”
The event was put on by members of the Burbank Veterans committee, including Board Chair Mickey DePalo, who gave a warm welcome at the start of the event proceedings. DePalo was joined by a number of local leaders, including Mayor Konstantine Anthony, Vice Mayor Nick Schultz, and Councilwomen Nikki Perez and Zizette Mullins, along with local police and fire command staff.
State Assemblywoman Laura Friedman and state Sen. Anthony Portantino, who both represent Burbank in the state legislature, attended and gave remarks.
“We join the nation in paying our respects to the courageous women and men who gave their lives to defend our democracy and way of life. We must never forget their names or their sacrifice,” Schultz said.
Veterans from WWII, the Korean War and the Vietnam War were also present during the ceremony, and all emphasized the importance of remembering those who fell in the line of duty.
First published in the June 3 print issue of the Burbank Leader.
