A speech given by congress woman Judy Chu at the 8th annual Saluting our Veterans event. Photo: Kayla Landrum
Citrus College honored local veterans Thursday during the 8th annual Saluting our Veterans event, which showcased Gladstone High School’s marching band, an AMVETS Honors Guard, military exhibits, keynote speakers, live army statues, booths about the military and musical tributes.
Each year, Citrus partners up with Azusa Pacific, City of Glendora and City of Azusa to put on the event.
The event recognizes veterans with academic influence in their communities by handing out scholarships and honoring themCalifornia congresswoman Judy Chu, from the 27th district which covers the San Gabriel Foothills, began with a speech on the importance of veterans and education.
“Veterans of all ages have given so much to protect this nation, and defend our values,” Chu said. “All too often we see that veterans are not able to access the benefits they deserve. We must do a better job of ensuring that our veterans have access to every benefit they deserve. … We must make sure that every veteran gets their educational benefits.”
Four veterans were honored for their service in both the military and education. Sgt. 1st Class Jacob Hostetler, Spc. 4th Class Robert Nelson, Spc. 4th Class Rose Sayre and Azusa Pacific alum Capt. Gabriel Higerd.
Higerd joined the U.S. Army Military Police Corps after he graduated from APU with a Bachelor of Science in finance. He held several positions in the only Airborne Military Police Unit as well as policing positions in Oklahoma, Missouri, Georgia and Fort Bragg, N.C. He was deployed to Iraq in 2008 and 2009 and was awarded a Bronze Star. Higerd is now pursuing a doctorate degree in sports management.
In addition to recognizing specific veterans, the event also honored all of those who have served in the military. Chaplain Lt. Col. Rick Givens of APU saluted those who had fallen and led the attendees in a prayer, followed by a moment of silence to show respect for those who served. The event ended with a musical tribute featuring Bruno Mars’ song, “Treasure.”