Local Man Named Veteran of the Year

Redondo Beach resident John Simpson was honored Wednesday as the 53rd Assembly District Veteran of the Year at a Veteran's Recognition Day Luncheon in Sacramento, according to a news release from Assemblywoman Betsy Butler.

"John has distinguished himself not only through his service to our country, but also through his commitment to improving the quality of life for local veterans," Butler, who nominated Simpson, said in the statement. "He is truly an inspiration to all of us."

Simpson, 79, served in the U.S. Marine Corps 1st Marine Division during the Korean War.

Since moving to Redondo Beach in 2003, Simpson has served on the local Veterans Memorial Task Force and the Traumatic Brain Injury Social Network, which offers support to those who have suffered a traumatic brain injury.

As chairman of the Veterans Memorial Task Force, Simpson led efforts to raise more than $250,000 to build the veterans memorial at , which was .

The 53rd Assembly District includes Redondo Beach, Hermosa Beach, Marina del Rey and Manhattan Beach.