Daughters of Los Cerritos Chapter, Long Beach California celebrated the National Commemoration of the Centennial of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier with two events in November.

A Never Forget Garden Marker, donated by chapter members, was placed in the Veterans Memorial Rose Garden in Leisure World, Seal Beach. The dedication ceremony, coordinated by member, Nancy Garrett, was held on November 5. One hundred DAR members, Leisure World residents and guests attended this moving event. They received greetings and thanks from the Leisure World Foundation and The American Legion.

On Veterans Day, November 11, 2021, the Commemorative Events Committee, chaired by Candy Wood, held a solemn ceremony to commemorate the Centennial of the Tomb at Bethany Lutheran Church in Long Beach. The program included a 21 Bell Salute and the Lakewood High School JROTC color guard led by Retired Captain Donald McMackin. The keynote speech, given by Chapter Regent, Laurie Gilmore, included a special message sent by former Tomb Guard, Tom Tudor, written especially for the ceremony. One hundred fifty local citizens, including many veterans, families and DAR members exited in silence after the trumpet’s playing of a mournful taps.

Los Cerritos Chapter is proud and grateful for the hard work of its chapter members in putting these events together. Both ceremonies were received with heartfelt thanks by all who attended.