Ryan Grimes, Mel Angel, Bryan Morse, Jose Orozco, Victor Padilla, Marieta De La Cruz, Steven Campos and Chuck Spandri at the 2024 Memorial Day ceremony . Photo by Adam Bell.
Ryan Grimes, Mel Angel, Bryan Morse, Jose Orozco, Victor Padilla, Marieta De La Cruz, Steven Campos and Chuck Spandri at the 2024 Memorial Day ceremony . Photo by Adam Bell.

Information provided by LULAC. Lea este artículo en español aquí.

The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC), the oldest Hispanic civil rights organization in our country and county, in collaboration with VFW Post 9242, proudly announces that nominations for the 2024 Veteran of the Year Award are now open. This prestigious award will be presented during the annual Veterans Day Ceremony on Nov. 11, 2024, led by Commander Bernie Ramirez at the Hollister Veterans’ Memorial Building.

In celebrating the courage, sacrifices, and heroism of our veterans who have bravely defended our nation, LULAC and VFW Post 9242 are excited to recognize those who continue to serve their communities after their military careers. Veterans are the backbone of our freedom, embodying values of bravery and resilience, and it is our honor to highlight their ongoing contributions to society.

The recipient of the Veteran of the Year Award will be selected based on the following criteria:

  1. Volunteerism or Philanthropy: Candidates must demonstrate a commitment to service in their community through advocacy, community projects, acts of heroism, or other impactful actions.
  2. Excellence: Examples of how applicants exude a spirit of excellence in all endeavors are required.
  3. Dedication: Applicants must show a genuine dedication to supporting their community, organization, or others in need within San Benito County.

Nominees will be recognized during a solemn ceremony starting at 11 a.m. at 649 San Benito Street, Hollister, California. The public is warmly invited to attend this commemorative event, where lunch will be served courtesy of VFW Post 9242 at a nominal cost. All veterans will be offered a complimentary meal. Following the ceremony, our honoree(s) will ride alongside the Grand Marshal in the annual San Benito County Veterans Parade and will serve as representatives of all veterans at various activities throughout the upcoming year.

The deadline for submitting nominations is October 14, 2024. Nominations can be
made online at https://forms.gle/4MZ3XCkJGjquNEr5A

For any questions or comments, please reach out to us via email at VetNomination@sbclulac.org.

Join us in honoring the service and sacrifice of our veterans.