Memorial Day, Remembering and Honoring

As the long weekend approaches, Santa Barbara fills with the energy of a beautiful coastal summer kickoff. But beneath the beach days and local festivities lies the true, sacred heart of this holiday: pausing to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.

We are incredibly grateful that we are fortunate enough to be able to celebrate and honor their lives for their service. This weekend, as we look out over our beautiful community, we reflect on the immense cost of the freedoms we enjoy every day.

A Deeply Personal Thank You

For our family, this remembrance is close to our hearts. Today, we want to extend a profound and personal thank you to the brave individuals who shaped our lives and protected our world:

• To my father, who served with honor in the Cavalry in World War II.
• To my brother, Chris, who served bravely in Vietnam (Two tours, Bronze Star recipient, and Navy SEAL).
• To all those who served, and to all those who continue to serve across every branch of our military.

Your courage, dedication, and sacrifices are woven into the fabric of our country. Because of you, we can gather in peace today.

Honoring and Observing in Santa Barbara

If you are looking for ways to pay your respects, connect with fellow community members, and reflect locally this weekend, Santa Barbara has several meaningful traditions taking place:

The Annual Memorial Day Ceremony

• When: Monday, May 25th at 11:00 AM sharp (arriving early is highly recommended)
• Where: Santa Barbara Cemetery (901 Channel Drive, near the main flagpole)
• What to expect: Hosted by the Pierre Claeyssens Veterans Foundation and VFW Post 1649, this beautiful, free open-air ceremony features keynote speaker Rear Admiral John Weigold (USN, ret.). The morning includes moving performances by the Santa Barbara Choral Society, the Gold Coast Pipe & Drum Band, the Prime Time Band, and the UCSB ROTC Color Guard.
• The Highlight: The ceremony will close with a spectacular flyover by The Condor Squadron.

Annual Memorial Day Mass

• When: Monday, May 25th at 10:00 AM
• Where: Calvary Cemetery (199 N. Hope Ave)
• What to expect: A sacred, peaceful liturgy to honor and pray for our beloved departed who served in faith and uniform.

A Weekend of Community Reflection

Beyond the formal services, you can find quiet moments of gratitude while walking along the waterfront, or while experiencing local traditions like the 40th Annual I Madonnari Street Painting Festival over at the Old Mission plaza. The vibrant artwork created by our community serves as a beautiful backdrop to a weekend meant for appreciation, family, and togetherness.

Let’s make a promise to keep the stories of our veterans and fallen heroes alive. Share their names, tell their stories, and hold them close in your hearts.

To my father, to Chris, and to every service member who has ever worn the uniform—thank you.

Never forget.

How are you spending your Memorial Day weekend? If you have a loved one who served, please share their name or their story in the comments below so we can honor them together.