Every year, millions of Americans pay their respects to U.S. troops across the United States.
In Eternal Valley, more than a thousand people observed a moment of silence on Memorial Day.
From veterans to civilians and even state representatives, people from Santa Clarita and beyond came to honor fallen military members.
“Every Memorial Day, we try to get out to as many of these events as possible,” said Maj. Gen. Matthew Beevers, the Adjutant General of the California Military Department.
“It’s hugely important to ensure that folks remember that we have to remember our fallen,” said Beevers
California assembly member Pilar Schiavo and Congressman George Whitesides attended the event and dedicated their speeches to the living and the dead.
In addition, Whitesides is helping retired soldiers connect with the Veterans Association for improved services and benefits, but he’s not the first.
“Veterans Collaborative is a volunteer, 501(c) (3) non-profit that provides resources and referrals for veterans, active duty and their families,” said Jeff Stablie, a U.S. Air Force veteran and board member representing the Santa Clarita Veterans Services Collaborative.
“We provide services for 21 community services, and we also do VA benefit counseling,” said Stabile.
The collaborative, which includes many soldiers who have gone through the same struggles, helps disabled veterans and their caretakers recognize what benefits they’re entitled to.
“We have about 35 volunteers. These are veterans, these are family members of veterans, and these are nonveterans who just want to come in and help,” said Stabile.
