By Lookout Staff
November 7, 2025 -- Santa Monica will celebrate Veterans Day Tuesday's with speeches, a swearing in of future soldiers and a "high-flying salute visible across the coastline," City officials said.
The annual ceremony, now in its sixth year, takes place at 11 a.m. on the Pier and features performances and remarks from senior military leaders and local elected officials.
General Bryan P. Fenton, Commander of U.S. Special Operations Command will deliver the keynote speech, and Mayor Lana Negrete and Councilmember and Army veteran Dan Hall will offer remarks.
There will also be a presentation of awards to "Palisades Fire recovery heroes," officials said.
“Veterans Day is not just a day on the calendar -- it is a living reminder of the courage, sacrifice and steadfast devotion that have preserved our freedom for generations,” said Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army Sonki Hong, who organized the event.
“Every veteran carries within them a story of honor and resilience, and through their service, they have written the very definition of patriotism. Today, and every day, we stand united in gratitude for those who answered the call to defend our nation.”
The Posting of Colors will be performed by the JROTC cadets from James Monroe High School. Master Sergeant Keith Beyer will perform the National Anthem, while Miss USO Heidi-Marie Ferren will perform “God Bless America.”
Major General Jeffrey Smiley, Commanding General of the California Army National Guard wil conduct the swearing in of future soldiers.
Pacific Park will offer free ride tickets and Meals on Wheels will provide free meals for veterans and active military members.
Pacific Park's iconic Ferris wheel will showcase "a dazzling display" featuring a 90-foot-tall animated American flag and the seals of all five U.S. Armed Services.
The lighting program will showcase more than 174,000 computer-controlled LED lights in vibrant patriotic red, white, and blue colors and patterns, park officials said.
Veterans Day was originally called Armistice Day, commemorating the end of World War I on November 18, 1918. It honors those who have served the country in war or peace.