LOS ANGELES (February 2026) — For one hundred years, Bob Hope Patriotic Hall (BHPH) has embodied Los Angeles County’s promise to those who serve. On February 21, 2026, veterans, families, and community partners gathered beneath its roof to commemorate the Centennial, celebrating a legacy of service and recommitting to its future.
Completed in 1926 by Union Civil War Veterans of the Grand Army of the Republic, the Hall was once the tallest building in Los Angeles. It has served as housing for returning World War II service members, a gathering place for military leaders, a filming location for Patton, and today remains a working hub for veteran services and community partnerships.
“This one-of-a-kind building has been the epicenter for the veteran and military community in Los Angeles County for the last 100 years,” said Jim Zenner, Director of the Los Angeles County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (MVA). “Across the country, other counties look to Los Angeles when looking for what is possible regarding the local government’s role in supporting and honoring our military and veteran communities.”
Throughout the day, guests explored historic artifacts and exhibits that reflect the Hall’s enduring legacy. That legacy is actively preserved by dedicated volunteer historians. Beverly Macy and Glen Roosevelt were recognized for their meticulous work documenting the artifacts housed within the Hall.
Montgomery Hom was also recognized for his leadership in preserving artifacts and celebrating the diverse cultures represented throughout America’s military history. His work ensures that the Hall’s collection is protected and thoughtfully presented for future generations.
The evening also included a Lifetime Achievement Award presented to Jay Morales, whose advocacy has played a critical role in safeguarding the Hall’s future.
“There is a strong possibility that the Hall does not exist without the tireless efforts of our next awardee,” Zenner said, recognizing Morales’ long-standing dedication to protecting the building and advancing plans that strengthen its long-term sustainability.
Zenner reflected on the Hall’s continued relevance in moments of crisis and community need.
“During the fires last year, we brought dozens of veterans living near the Palisades fire into the Hall to stay with us while the fire was being contained,” Zenner said. “The Department of Military and Veteran Affairs understands the importance of mobilizing our community to solve problems and supporting our neighborhoods with the unique skills, talent, and mindset that our military and veteran community brings.”
As the Centennial transitioned into the evening gala hosted in partnership with the Warrior Heritage Foundation, the focus shifted toward the next century.
“Tonight, we have honored 100 years of history,” said Justin Garza, Executive Director of the Warrior Heritage Foundation. “One hundred years of service. One hundred years of sacrifice. One hundred years of Los Angeles coming together under this roof. But history is our foundation, not our finish line.”
Garza emphasized that the Hall’s future is rooted in purpose.
“Bob Hope Patriotic Hall was never meant to be a museum. It was built as a living promise,” Garza said. “A promise that those who serve this nation would never stand alone when they returned home.”
He outlined a bold vision for what comes next.
“In the next 100 years, this Hall will become the epicenter of veteran advancement in Los Angeles County,” Garza said. “Not charity. Not handouts. Leadership. Veterans are not liabilities to be managed. They are assets to be mobilized.
Zenner reinforced the importance of partnership in achieving that vision.
“The vision of the next 100 years is possible with private partners like Warrior Heritage Foundation working closely with us and the ongoing support of our Board of Supervisors,” Zenner said. “To our military and veterans in the room, we need you in the fight with us. We will make sure that it is worth your time and effort to engage with us to move the needle forward together.”
As the evening concluded, the message was clear. Bob Hope Patriotic Hall is not simply a historic landmark listed on the California State and National Registers of Historic Places. It is an active center of service, preservation, leadership, and community in Los Angeles County.
“One hundred years ago, this building was a promise,” Garza said. “Tonight, it becomes a launchpad.”
The next century has officially begun.
Story and photo by Ashley Cohen, Public Information Associate, Los Angeles County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs
