CARMICHAEL, CA (MPG) - Carmichael’s Vietnam Memorial was last weekend central to community Veterans Day commemorations. Flags, music and memories were shared by almost 180 visitors. The ceremony was also live-streamed.

The first-known California monument to the Vietnam War, the memorial is in the Koobs Nature Area on Engle Road. First dedicated in 1973, its steel edifice honors La Sierra High School graduates who died in the Vietnam War. La Sierra graduate Brigadier General Don Currier addressed the gathering and urged businesspeople to hire veterans. “They are dependable and loyal,” he said. “They have training and maturity. Veterans’ life experience builds character that’s all too rare in today’s workplace.”

La Sierra High graduate – and later school administrator – Tony Asaro read the names of deceased La Sierra teachers and alumni who served the US in WW2, Korea, and Vietnam Wars. “They put their lives on the line and came back to serve our community,” said Asaro. “Saying their names aloud makes sure they’re not forgotten.”

Attendees were invited to make dedications to deceased veterans from their own families and neighborhoods. Rock singer Todd Morgan performed “What a Wonderful World” and Eagle Scout Edward Stach offered a solo trumpet rendition of Taps.

Heroes named on the Vietnam Monument are: Robert D. Anderson, Mark W. Burchard, Robert S. Bynes, Jerry Cowsert, Kenneth R. Escott, Gary R. Field, Herbert Frenzell, Frank Thornburg, Ralph Guarienti, Larry H. Morford, Thomas C. Pigg, Randall B. Rainville, Kim Richins, Jeffry Tharaldson, Robert A. Willis.

Earl J. Koobs Nature Area is open to visitors. For information, go to www.carmichaelkiwanis.org or visit the Koobs Nature Area site on Facebook.