Lives of Valor: Veterans of Paramount

Veterans Day. What does it mean? How did it start?

As World War I was ending, the Allied nations and Germany entered an “armistice,” a temporary end of war, at the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month: November 11, 1918. Although the war officially ended when the Treaty of Versailles was signed seven months later, former President Woodrow Wilson declared November 11 would be forever recognized.

Veterans Day is a day of celebration that honors America’s veterans for their courage, bravery and service to our nation. Across the country, many have answered the call to serve, making immense sacrifices to keep our nation safe. One day is not enough to truly honor these men and women, and the City of Paramount recognizes that.

The City has made several investments in the community that provide ongoing appreciation and support that benefit veterans year-round, including:

• The Veteran Peer Access Network: Helps veterans receive services such as mental health, housing, employment, food, and more. A representative is available onsite at the Paramount Senior Center (14400 Paramount Blvd) on Fridays from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
• “The Battlefield Cross and Soldier” art piece: This bronze sculpture symbolizes and honors all those who bravely served. It features three pieces, a kneeling soldier, a helmet and a battlefield cross with a life-sized kneeling soldier paying tribute at the foot of a Fallen Soldier’s cross.
• The Paramount Armed Forces Memorial: The memorial includes three “Honor Walls” listing the names of Paramount veterans killed or missing in action from World War II, Korea and Vietnam. There is also a memorial sculpture entitled “Upholding,” designed as a tribute to those lost in battle.

With a community full of veterans, the City wanted to create another way to share their stories and acknowledge their contributions beyond November 11. This led to the launch of a video series, “Lives of Valor: Veterans of Paramount.”

Through this series, the City highlighted local veterans whose service and wisdom continue to inspire those around them. From those who served abroad to those who continue sharing their legacy at home, each story reflects the heart of our community. Throughout November, visit the City’s official social media channels (Facebook and Instagram) to hear from:

• Specialist 4th Class Army Veteran Woodie Grayson
• E-4 Sergeant / Sr. Airman Air Force Veteran Tony Warfield
• Lieutenant Colonel Air Force Veteran Doug Chism
• Airman E-2 U.S. Navy Veteran Manuel Alcaraz
• Corporal E-4 Army Veteran Steven A. Kucharczk

As we celebrate Veterans Day, the City invites the community to honor these and so many other remarkable individuals. Please join us on Tuesday, November 11, from 10–11:30 a.m. at the Paramount Armed Forces Memorial (16400 Colorado Ave) for our annual Veterans Day Ceremony and show your support. Let’s continue to honor those who have defended our freedom, not just on November 11, but every day.

And to all our veterans, thank you for your service.

If you or someone you know would like to be featured on a future veteran interview, please email communications@paramountcity.gov or call (562) 220-2030.