The ceremony opened with a statement of gratitude and reflection: “Today is the day where we acknowledge the men and women of our Country’s armed services for their bravery, dedication, and contribution to our freedom in America.” Those words set the tone for a morning dedicated to honoring the nation’s veterans.

Friends, families, and residents from across the San Jacinto Valley gathered to pay tribute to those who have served in the United States Armed Forces. The event commenced with a solemn bagpipe procession across the golf course, followed by the Hemet Mounted Posse presenting the colors at the stage. Attendees were then treated to an impressive aerobatic flyover by Doug Medore of Hemet-Ryan Airport, whose aerial display drew enthusiastic applause from the crowd.

A highlight of the ceremony was the performance by the San Jacinto High School R.O.T.C. rifle drill team, whose precision and discipline earned admiration from attendees. Master of Ceremonies Henry Sawicki remarked, “Did you see that? Those kids are our future.”

San Jacinto Mayor Valerie Vandever, representing the American Legion Auxiliary, participated in the ceremonial laying of a wreath as Taps played, accompanied by the symbolic image of a riderless horse walking solemnly into the trees.

Several speakers shared reflections on service and remembrance. Duane Minard, a veteran and member of the Native American community, spoke about the vital contributions of Native Americans in the U.S. military, noting that “more than 20 percent of the military are Native Americans. I was grateful to serve.”
Bill Chamberlain, a veteran involved in fundraising for national cemetery memorials, recounted the history of Riverside National Cemetery and encouraged attendees to visit and reflect on its memorials.
Author Frank Teurlay, who wrote about Riverside’s Camp Anza and Arlanza, summarized his extensive research in a brief address, later praised by Bobbie Neff, who commented, “It was just enough to get people to want to read your book to get it all.”

Event sponsor Authority Real Estate provided a complimentary box lunch for all attendees, an appreciated gesture that contributed to the sense of community throughout the morning.

Among those in attendance, Air Force veteran Michael McGuiness described the event as “the best Veterans Day event. It really made the point that it’s all about the Veterans.”
Bill Rhoads, a retired Army Ranger and vocalist, delivered a heartfelt rendition of “Remember Me (The Fallen Soldier),” reminding the audience, “You can’t forget the Veterans. We all are here because of them.”

The Hemet High School Jazz Band provided musical tributes featuring the themes of each branch of the military, closing with a stirring performance of “America the Beautiful.” Eva Luna, from the San Jacinto Leadership Academy and a Voice of the Valley finalist, delivered a powerful rendition of the National Anthem, earning a standing ovation.

The success of the ceremony reflected the contributions of numerous volunteers, including Phil Ayala, San Jacinto City Councilmember, veteran, and advisor to the San Jacinto Leadership Academy, who coordinated the Military Explorers team. They worked alongside volunteers from the Nuview Bridge High School golf team and community members who dedicated their time and effort honoring our Veterans.

Lilian Averette, representing Congressman Raul Ruiz, presented a United States flag that had flown over the Capitol to the Golden Era Productions in recognition of its 15 years of dedication to honoring veterans. She was joined by William Boyd, representing Senator Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh, and a representative from State Senator Sabrina Cervantes office.

Major sponsors included Golden Era Productions, the City of San Jacinto, San Jacinto American Legion Post 848, and the Veterans Circle of Friends.

In keeping with tradition, veterans were invited to golf free on Veterans Day, allowing many to enjoy the course in the early morning before the ceremony began.

The day concluded with a shared message felt deeply by all in attendance:
It was all about our Veterans, and giving thanks for their service and sacrifice.

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Thanks to the unwavering support of over 60 local sponsors and volunteers, the event remained entirely free for families, continuing its tradition of bringing the San Jacinto Valley together through shared joy, outdoor fun, and unforgettable memories.

Tournament Results

Age 6–10 Category:

1. 1. Kaylie Tugado
2. 2. Aiden Mounphoxay
3. 3. Isabella Grace
4. 4. Trenton Meredith
5. 5. Chevelle Schmitz
6. 6. Michael Church
7. 7. Hailey Nunez
8. 8. Margot Lobby
9. 9. Grayson Brown
10. 10. Brayden Pfadt

Age 11–15 Category:

1. 1. Alfonso Paez
2. 2. Aiden Paez
3. 3. Sean Rowe
4. 4. Allisyn Turner
5. 5. Wyatt Dudley
6. 6. Aiden Vannortwick
7. 7. Katelyn Ruiz
8. 8. Bradley Wilson
9. 9. Logan Turkmany
10. 10. London Kuehn

Kaylie Tugado also took home the award for Biggest Fish, reeling in an impressive 7-pound catch! In addition to her trophy, she received four tickets to SeaWorld, generously donated by Steve and Dr. Kristie Dimemmo.

Community Leaders and Law Enforcement Step In

The event was attended by several local dignitaries, including Mayor Jackie Peterson of Hemet, who also captured memorable moments as a photographer, and Mayor Valerie Vandever of San Jacinto, who served as Master of Ceremonies. Hemet Councilman Tom Lodge was seen assisting with fish weigh-ins at the lakeside.

Judging duties were carried out by Captain James Burton of the San Jacinto Sheriff’s Station and Captain Glen Brock of the Hemet Police Department, adding prestige and community pride to the competition.

Community Engagement and Activities

– The California Department of Fish and Wildlife provided 70 fishing rods and reels to young participants.
– Perris Valley Anglers Club and the Point Seekers Bass Club of Riverside each brought 11 members to assist the kids and offered expert guidance. The latter also had a bass boat display in front of the clubhouse.
– Boy Scout Troop 46 introduced over 150 children to BB gun safety and education through their dedicated tent — many shooting for the first time!
– A Drug-Free World booth handed out 239 educational booklets and shared real-life stories about the risks of substance use.

Food and Family Time

– Shamrock Foods kicked things off right after 7 a.m. check-in with breakfast snack bags for attendees.
– The Kiwanis Club of Hemet brought their grills and big smiles, cooking a delicious hamburger lunch for everyone after the fishing wrapped up.

Voices from the Community

 “We’ve been here every year, and my son has caught fish every time!”

“My grandson caught his first fish and hasn’t stopped talking about it!”

“We had a fantastic time. The food, the fishing — everything was perfect.”

“These events keep my grandkids away from gangs and drugs. They love it, and so do I.”

Special Thanks to the Gold Sponsors

This unforgettable event would not have been possible without the generous support of our Gold Sponsors. A heartfelt thank you to the Greater San Jacinto Chamber of Commerce, Soboba Foundation, Golden Era Productions, Shamrock Foods, SCOC Services, Steve and Dr. Kristie Dimemmo, Polly’s Pies, and Raising Cane’s. Your commitment to the children and families of this valley continues to make a lasting impact, and we are deeply grateful for your partnership and dedication to building a stronger community.

This day was made possible by the hardworking Fishing Tournament Committee, led by President Albert Kissinger and Vice President Michelle Meade, whose dedication, planning, and countless volunteer hours made this event a true success.

For more information contact the Greater San Jacinto Valley Chamber of Commerce.
www.gsjvchamber.com

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