LOS ANGELES, CA (October 31, 2025) — Communities across Los Angeles County are uniting to honor military service through events and outreach that celebrate veterans and connect families with earned benefits and services during Veterans and Military Families Appreciation Month.
“As a veteran myself, I know that recognition matters, but connection matters even more,” said Jim Zenner, director of the Los Angeles County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs. “Every event, every handshake, every act of appreciation helps a veteran know they are not alone and that they have a community that is there to support them.”
To kick off the month, from Nov. 4 to 11, County buildings and landmarks will be illuminated green as part of Operation Green Light, a national initiative that symbolizes gratitude and support for those who served in the U.S. Armed Forces. The initiative invites departments, residents, and businesses to participate by lighting their workplaces or homes in green as a visible expression of appreciation for veterans in their communities.
“Most veterans come back to our community and thrive. After leaving the military, they bring skills and a commitment to service that strengthens Los Angeles County and beyond,” said Zenner. “We honor their service and sacrifice by lighting our county up in green to show that LA County is united in that honor.”
Throughout November, cities, County departments, and partner organizations will host ceremonies, community gatherings, and resource fairs to honor veterans and raise awareness of programs available to them and their families. The full and continually expanding list of local observances is available at mva.lacounty.gov/events/tag/nov_2025_honoring_veterans.
A few highlighted events include:
- Nov. 2 – VA Greater Los Angeles Veterans Stand Down: A day of community support at the West Los Angeles VA Medical Center offering services, resources, and outreach for veterans experiencing or at risk of homelessness.
- Nov. 8 – East Los Angeles Veterans Day Ceremony and Resource Fair: Hosted by Supervisor Hilda L. Solis, this community event honors veterans with a formal ceremony, live entertainment, and a resource fair connecting attendees to benefits and services.
- Nov. 9 – Veterans Day Celebration at Bob Hope Patriotic Hall: Presented by the Warrior Heritage Foundation, this celebration features tributes, community engagement, and resources for veterans and their families.
- Nov. 15 – Final Salute: End-of-Life Benefits and Honors Event: A free educational event at Highland Church in La Habra providing information on burial, memorial, and survivor benefits for veterans and families.
- Nov. 20 – 9th Annual Veterans Thanksgiving Appreciation Dinner: Hosted by the Veteran’s Advocacy Group of America, this annual Thanksgiving celebration brings the community together for a heartfelt afternoon of gratitude, honoring veterans with a meal, shared stories, and fellowship.
These events represent just a few of the many opportunities to honor service across Los Angeles County. Departments, cities, and community organizations are encouraged to share details of upcoming veteran-related events by emailing PIO@mva.lacounty.gov for inclusion.
“Honoring service is more than a ceremony; it is a call to action,” Zenner said. “By increasing awareness of the benefits and programs available, we are helping veterans and families build stability, opportunity, and a renewed sense of belonging.”
The County continues to strengthen efforts to ensure veterans and their families are connected to the benefits they have earned and deserve. These include assistance with housing, employment, education, health care, and behavioral health resources, as well as access to the County’s Veteran Peer Access Network (VPAN), which provides one-on-one support through peers with shared military experience.
Community members are also encouraged to participate by sharing messages, photos, or stories recognizing veterans and military families. Submissions may be featured in upcoming County communications or displays. Submissions can be made through the Veteran & Family Recognition Form or emailed to PIO@mva.lacounty.gov.
Residents may also explore local veteran banner programs, which provide meaningful opportunities to publicly recognize service members in their communities.
“These combined efforts reflect Los Angeles County’s ongoing commitment to honoring veterans, supporting military families, and ensuring access to the full range of services and benefits available to those who have served,” Zenner said. “This work is possible because of our partners across the County, including departments, cities, and community organizations that step forward to serve those who served. Together, we are creating spaces of gratitude, connection, and hope for veterans and their families.”
Article by: Ashley Cohen, Communications Director, Los Angeles County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (MVA)
