Roughly 70 veterans were honored last night during the city of Aliso Viejo’s 8th annual Veterans Appreciation Program at the Aliso Viejo Conference Center.
The event fell on the 240th birthday of the U.S. Marine Corps.
“It was Ronald Reagan who once said: ‘Some people spend an entire lifetime wondering if they made a difference in the world. But, the Marines don’t have that problem,'” said Mayor Bill Phillips, who was joined by colleagues Mayor Pro Tem Mike Munzing and Council Members Ross Chun and Dave Harrington. “The Marine Corps – and every single branch of the U.S. military – exist to ensure the future of our nation. It is selfless individuals who serve their country and sacrifice so much for the betterment of others.”
The dinner included a birthday celebration for the Marine Corps along with local veterans sharing their stories about their service to our nation.
“Every single person who has ever served in any branch of our military is a hero in my book,” Phillips said. “Thank you for your commitment, your sacrifices and your resolve.”
Members of the Aliso Niguel High School Honor Choir were there to sing the National Anthem and “Happy Birthday” to the Marine Corps.
