Gerald Jack served in the U.S. Army from 1955-1957, he was stationed in Korea. Wally Lohgren served in the U.S. Army from 1966-1968, working for military intelligence on the beaches of Hawaii. Elijah Silva is a member of the U.S. Marine Corps, starting his service in 2012.
Though their experiences have widely varied, all three San Gabriel residents served their country and made their community proud.
“Being in the military is good for a man because they are taught discipline. And for us to be able to serve our country is an honor,” Jack said.
For a younger veteran like Silva, taking time to honor all those who have served before him is also an important moment.
“I just look at them as like they paved the way for me to become something that I want to see,” Silva said. “When I look at them I see a lot of rich history and spirit that I wanted to embody, so they are like idols to me.”
Jack, Silva, Lohgren and all other veterans in San Gabriel and the entire country will be honored this Friday for Veterans Day. Learn more about their stories in a special Veterans Day video at https://youtu.be/yaIo1vZDvB0.
The city’s Veterans Honor Wall is on display this week at the Adult Recreation Center, 324 S Mission Drive, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The city will be closed for business on Friday in honor of the holiday.
“If you can find a veteran, if you know a veteran, just give him a pat on the back and thank him for his service,” Lohgren said.
If you are a veteran or know someone in San Gabriel who has served in the military, call the Community Services Department at 626.308.2875 to have their name listed on the city’s Honor Wall.