Memorial Day in Westlake Village: Honoring Our Heroes
By Jeff Haring | May 27, 2019 | Events
Westlake Village proudly hosts its annual Memorial Day Remembrance Ceremony at Pierce Brothers Valley Oaks-Griffin Memorial Park. This heartfelt event, now in its 29th year, honors fallen veterans from all wars. As a local realtor and community member, I’m proud to share this meaningful tradition that brings our Westlake Village community together.
A Tribute to Our Fallen Heroes
The ceremony, held at Pierce Brothers Valley Oaks-Griffin Memorial Park, offers a space to reflect and honor those who gave their lives for our freedom. “We’re proud to host this event and provide a place for our community to remember our heroes,” said Tamara Eacker, general manager of the memorial park. “We hope it brings peace to those who mourn.”
This year’s event featured over 1,400 flags adorning veterans’ graves in the traditional Avenue of Flags. The Air National Guard Band of the West Coast kicked off the day with a pre-ceremony concert, setting a solemn yet uplifting tone.
Highlights of the Ceremony
Impressive Flyover
The event began with a stirring bugle call, followed by a breathtaking flyover of five vintage war aircraft, including a B25 bomber. This display reminded us of the courage and sacrifice of our military.
Honored Guests and Performers
The ceremony welcomed distinguished groups, including:
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The 23rd Marines Color Guard
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Colonel Jerry Knotts, USAF (Ret.), Conejo Valley Chapter, Military Order of the World Wars
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Colonel Robert Melsness, USAF (Ret.), past president of the Conejo-Simi Valley Chapter, MOAA
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Major Gary Dickey, Deputy Chaplain, CA Wing, Civil Air Patrol
Musical performances by the Memorial Day Choir, featuring singers from the Village Voices Chorale, the United Methodist Church of Westlake Village, and Temple Judea, added a touching tribute. Their voices filled the air with gratitude and remembrance.
Community Effort Behind the Event
Many organizations work together to make this ceremony possible. Key contributors include:
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Conejo Valley Chapter, Military Order of the World Wars
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Veterans of Foreign Wars, Eric Huberth Post No. 1139
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Camarillo Composite Squadron 61, Civil Air Patrol
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Local churches and choral groups
Their dedication ensures this event remains a cornerstone of our Westlake Village community. If you missed it, mark your calendar for next Memorial Day to join us in honoring our veterans.
Remembering Bud Wilson
On this day, I reflect on David “Bud” Wilson, a neighbor who died in Vietnam in 1969 at age 20. Bud was full of life, riding his black Honda motorcycle and driving his jeep. As a 6-year-old, I loved riding in that jeep, laughing as Bud spun in circles. His mother, Joanne, once scolded him for riding his motorcycle into the house just to make us kids laugh!
Bud was drafted at 19 and earned a Purple Heart after surviving a grenade injury. Tragically, he was killed by a landmine shortly after returning to combat. His loss devastated his family, and his sister still speaks of him with deep sorrow. Bud is buried at the Los Angeles National Cemetery in Westwood. His memory reminds us of the true cost of freedom.
Join Our Community
Let’s never forget heroes like Bud Wilson, whose sacrifices allow us to enjoy the vibrant Westlake Village community we cherish today. As a realtor with 40 years of experience, I’m committed to helping families build memories in our beautiful area, from Westlake Village to Thousand Oaks.
Watch the Ceremony Highlights
Check out the Armed Forces Medley from this year’s Memorial Day event in Westlake Village:
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Get Involved in Our Community
Want to learn more about Westlake Village events or explore homes in our area? Contact me, Jeff Haring, at (805) 419-5040 or jeff.haring@compass.com. Let’s connect to make your real estate dreams a reality in Ventura County.
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