On a day that stoked old-fashioned American patriotism, the 32nd annual Canoga Park Memorial Day Parade on May 27 honored Canoga Park High School “Gold Star” graduates who died during military service.
The opening ceremony at 10 a.m. for the “Saluting the Price of Freedom” theme parade — dedicated to honoring and remembering the men and women who died during active service i and deceased veterans who served at any time abroad or at home — included presentations by retired U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Peter Gravett and local elected officials.
Gravett, who also had a career in the Los Angeles Police Department, was the parade’s grand marshal.
“I am deeply honored to have been selected to participate in the Annual Canoga Park Memorial Day Parade, and I commend the organizers and community for continuing this tradition. What better way to honor our brave military who fell in war to secure our freedoms, beginning with the Civil War to recent conflicts,” Gravett said.
The opening ceremony included a Presentation of Colors, and “Taps” played by Angel Cabral from William H. Taft Charter High School in Woodland Hills.
The 11 a.m. parade route rolled and marched along Sherman Way, from Owensmouth Avenue east to Cozycroft Avenue.
Parade participants included the Los Angeles Police Department Motorized Drill Team; Canoga Park High School Band, Dance and Cheer; and color guards.
Elected officials who joined in the parade included state Sen. Caroline Menjivar, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran; Los Angeles City Councilmember Bob Blumenfield; Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel, Los Angeles Unified School District Board Member Scott Schmerelson and U.S. Congressman Brad Sherman.
The parade, hosted by the Canoga Park Community Center, had several sponsors including Canoga Park Improvement Association; Canoga Park Neighborhood Council; Cowe Communications; Follow Your Heart; Green Thumb Nursery; Henri’s Restaurant; Los Angeles Rams; Valley Cultural Foundation; and…
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