On November 13, 2019 the City of Moreno Valley held their 12th annual Veterans Day Ceremony in which both the city and its residents officially recognized and celebrated those who have sacrificed so much in order to protect our country. The City of Moreno Valley has always been known as a veteran friendly city and has done the upmost to withhold that standard. The ceremony began with opening remarks from city councilwoman Victoria Baca, leading into a singing of the national anthem by Cosima Ybarra which was shortly followed by the presentation of the colors by the Moreno Valley High School JROTC, and finished off with a chorus by the Rancho Verde High school choir.
Mayor Gutierrz was also present to provide his thanks to both the veterans and their families. Many esteemed guest, including previous veterans from both WWII and from the Vietnam War were present during this event as well. One such guest being City Councilwoman Dr. Carla J. Thorton, who held a both humorous and inspiring keynote address. Dr. Thorton is a retired Master Sergeant of the United Sates Airforce and is a 20-year veteran herself. The event was held publicly at the City of Moreno Valley Veterans Memorial.