Veterans Day 2025 in Lincoln: Moments and memories

What a difference a year makes. Those at the 2024 Veterans Day Ceremony at Lincoln McBean Park's Placer County Veterans Monument endured constant rain, but that didn't dampen their spirits, nor did it dilute the inspirational messages delivered by the veterans organizations' leaders and special guest dignitaries. Veterans Day 2025 was the direct opposite of last year, with a clear sky and moderate temperatures. The audience numbered more than 600 veterans, families of veterans and those who came specifically to honor our veterans: those in our memories, or with us today. Dennis (DR) Reynolds, commander of VFW Post 3010, welcomed everyone, the national anthem was sung by Linsey Bostik-Flanagen, and the opening prayer was intoned by Will Tonn of the VFW. A five-ship flyover was performed by the West Coast Ravens flight demonstration team. Mayor Holly Andreatta introduced the attending VIPs and then introduced retired U.S. Army veteran Chief Warrant Officer Mike O'Connor, who spent 1,857 days in captivity in the "Hanoi Hilton" prisoner of war camp during the Vietnam War. Andreatta's voice cracked as she spoke of him. When she finished, the audience stood as one for a sustained round of applause. CWO O'Connor now resides in Lincoln. Placer County Board of Supervisors Chair Bonnie Gore spoke of her family who served and saw action, especially her grandfather, who participated in the liberation of the Dachau, Germany, concentration camp. "We are reminded today that our freedoms are not free," Gore said. "They have been defended and preserved by men and women who answered the call of duty – often at great personal sacrifice. ... Our nation owes a great debt to the individuals whose service spans every decade and every generation. Because of their dedication, we enjoy freedoms found nowhere else on earth." Said DR Reynolds, "Today should also be a day of reflection ... a day when every American takes time to consider the legacy of freedom and liberty that has been passed to us. It is a day to think about the awesome responsibility that is ours, and what it takes to maintain this land of the free, this home of the brave. ... We owe so much to today's generation of great patriots and all who've come before them. ... Today is a day to celebrate the courage, the deeds, the sacrifice, dedication and commitment of all veterans." Congressman Kevin Kiley was scheduled as a featured speaker but needed to be in Washington, D.C., for the reopening of the federal government vote. He spoke remotely, saying, "The monument will forever serve as a touchstone for our community. ... Today, we honor and pay tribute to every veteran; we thank you for your service, and we thank you for making it the amazing place it is." Floral wreaths were laid at the base of the monument, "Amazing Grace" was played by Bagpiper Sean Cummings, and there was a moment of silence to honor those who have passed. A 21-gun salute and "TAPS" concluded the formal ceremony, which was followed by the unveiling of Panel 8 on the Sunrise side of the monument.