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Veterans Day 2024 Ceremony at the Santa Monica Pier

Published on November 5, 2024

Join us for the Veterans Day 2024 Ceremony at the Santa Monica Pier. The city of Santa Monica joins the U.S. Army for a Veterans Day ceremony on Monday, Nov. 11, at 11 a.m. on the Santa Monica Pier.

Now in its fifth year, the event will feature exciting performances, military demonstrations and a flyover, as well as remarks from senior military leaders, local elected officials and . The ceremony, which will take place on the Pier’s west parking deck, is free and open to the public.

Veterans Day is a federal holiday observed in the US  annually on November 11. It honors millitary veterans of the United States Armed Forces.

Originally known as Armistice Day, Veterans day now coincides with Armistice Day and Remembrance Day, which are commemorated in other countries to mark the anniversary of the end of World War I.

Veterans Day is different to Memorial Day, which is a U.S. public holiday held in May. Veterans Day commemorates the service of all U.S. veterans, while Memorial Day specifically honors those who have died while in military service. 

What to Expect at Veterans Day 2024 Ceremony at the Santa Monica Pier

    • A military convoy led by former NFL players Andrew Whitworth, Cade McNown, and Donnie Edwards with Army vehicles from the California Army National Guard.
    • Posting of Colors performed by UCLA ROTC cadets
    • A military flyover with Blackhawk and Chinook helicopters from the S. Army Reserve
    • Military Color Guard performed by Los Angeles S. Army Recruiting Battalion
    • Demonstration by the United States Military Academy at West Point Drill Team (sponsored by American Legion Palisades Post 283)
    • Performances by the 300th Army Band
    • National Anthem and “God Bless America” performances by Miss USO Heidi-Marie Ferren
    • Keynote speech from a top Army 4-star General
    • Remarks from Santa Monica Mayor Phil Brock
    • Remarks from Councilmember Gleam Davis
    • Remarks from former NFL All-Pro and Super Bowl champion Andrew Whitworth
    • Future soldier swearing-in ceremony by Maj. Gen. Dianne Del Rosso
    • Free ride tickets for veterans and active military members (courtesy of )
    • Free meals for veterans and active military members (courtesy of Meals on Wheels)
    • Music and entertainment provided by 95.5 KLOS (courtesy of Meruelo Media

Free Pacific Park Ride Pass for Veterans

Veterans attending the Veterans Day 2024 Ceremony at the Santa Monica Pier are eligible to receive one pass at the event while supplies last. Passes must be collected at the event. Complimentary passes will not be available at the ticket booths inside Pacific Park.

Why Veterans Day is Important 

“On this Veterans Day, and every day, we should strive to honor our veterans not only with words but through our actions,” said Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army Sonki Hong, who organized the event. “We can support them, advocate for their needs, and ensure that they feel valued in our communities. Each veteran carries a unique story, filled with bravery and sacrifice, and it is our duty to listen to those stories and recognize their impact on our lives. We should also acknowledge the families of our veterans, who stand by them through challenges and triumphs. Their support is vital and deserves our deepest gratitude.”

Special Veterans Day Lighting of the Pacific Wheel

Pacific Park celebrates Veterans Day with a colorful salute on the Pacific Wheel in red, white, and blue, with icons representing all five branches of the US Armed Forces.