​Community gathers to celebrate service & sacrifice to Honor our Veterans

“Today is the day where we acknowledge the men and women of our Country’s armed services for their bravery, dedication and contribution to our freedom in America,” opened the Master of Ceremonies at the annual Veterans Day Ceremony held at Golden Era Golf Course—setting the tone for a morning of remembrance, respect, and community.

This year marked the 15th anniversary of the Veterans Day ceremony, held each year on the 11th day of the 11th month at the 11th hour. Friends, families, and community members gathered to honor and thank America’s veterans for their service and sacrifice.

The ceremony began with a stirring bagpipe march across the golf course, followed by the Hemet Mounted Posse presenting the colors at the stage. Overhead, aerobatic pilot Doug Medore from Hemet-Ryan Airport thrilled the audience with an impressive flyover performance.

The San Jacinto High School R.O.T.C. rifle drill team showcased their precision and discipline, earning praise from MC Henry Sawicki, who remarked, “Did you see that? Those kids are our future.”

Lilian Averette, representing Congressman Raul Ruiz’s office, presented a flag flown over the U.S. Capitol to Golden Era in recognition of 15 years of honoring veterans. She was joined by William Boyd from the office of Senator Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh and a representative from State Senator Sabrina Cervantes office.

San Jacinto Mayor Valerie Vandever, representing the American Legion Auxiliary, presented a wreath as Taps played and a riderless horse solemnly walked off into the trees—a poignant tribute to fallen soldiers.

Among the guest speakers was Duane Minard, a veteran who spoke about the contributions of Native Americans in the U.S. military, noting that “more than 20% of the military are Native Americans. I was grateful to serve.”

Bill Chamberlain, another veteran, shared stories of his involvement with Riverside National Cemetery, encouraging attendees to visit and reflect at its memorials.

Author Frank Teurlay, known for his book on Riverside’s Camp Anza and Arlanza, gave a brief but impactful talk about preserving local military history, with Bobbie Neff commenting, “It was just enough to get people to want to read your book to get it all.”

A complimentary box lunch provided by Authority Real Estate, a long-time event sponsor, was enjoyed by all in attendance.

Veteran Michael McGuiness shared his appreciation, saying, “This is the best Veterans Day event. It really made the point that it’s all about the Veterans.”

Bill Rhoads, a retired Army Ranger and performer, moved the audience with his rendition of “Remember Me (The Fallen Soldier),” reminding everyone, “You can’t forget the Veterans. We all are here because of them.”

Musical tributes included performances by the Hemet High School Jazz Band, which closed with “America the Beautiful,” and Eva Luna of the San Jacinto Leadership Academy, whose powerful rendition of the National Anthem brought the crowd to its feet.

Behind the scenes, dozens of volunteers made the event possible—including Phil Ayala, San Jacinto City Councilmember, veteran, and advisor to the San Jacinto Leadership Academy, who brought Military Explorers to assist alongside the Nuview Bridge High School golf team and community volunteers.

Major sponsors included the City of San Jacinto, San Jacinto American Legion Post 848, the Veterans Circle of Friends and Golden Era Productions.

As a special gesture, veterans were invited to golf free on Veterans Day, adding an extra layer of appreciation to the day’s celebration.

The day concluded with a shared message felt deeply by all in attendance:

It was all about our Veterans, and giving thanks for their service and sacrifice.