SOLEDAD — Soledad Police Department recently hosted its annual POW/MIA Recognition Ceremony and Flag Raising, bringing together community members, veterans, military families, local officials and community organizations to honor American service members who endured captivity and those who remain missing in action.
The Sept. 18 ceremony provided an opportunity for the community to remember prisoners of war, missing service members and the families who continue to carry their memories.
“Today, let us renew our commitment to remember those who returned, to account for those who have not, and to keep faith with every family still waiting,” said Soledad Acting Chief Jorge Arreola.
Mayor Anna Velazquez spoke about the importance of remembrance and the community’s responsibility to preserve the legacy of those who served.
“When we remember a veteran, we do more than look back at history — we keep their legacy alive,” Velazquez said. “As mayor, I am proud that our community comes together for moments like these. A strong community is one that stands with its veterans and military families and recognizes the sacrifices made on our behalf and teaches children that gratitude is not something we simply feel, it’s something we demonstrate through remembrance.”
Commander Eugene Ivey highlighted the personal stories behind the terms POW and MIA.
“Today, we recognize two groups whose circumstances differ, but whose sacrifices connect: prisoners of war and those missing in action,” Ivey said. “Behind every acronym there is a person who left home in service of duty and a story that did not have a clear ending for the world to know.”
Soledad Police Department Acting Deputy Chief Juan Santiago closed the ceremony.
“Today, we have gathered to remember those who have endured captivity, to honor those who remain missing, and to recognize the family and loved ones who have carried their memories and their hopes through the years,” Santiago said. “The presence of our veterans, active-duty members, families, community leaders and community members, makes this remembrance especially meaningful. Your participation reminds us that the promise that they are never forgotten is one we continue to carry forward.”
Soledad police thanked Velazquez, Deacon Ron Panziera, Jennifer Gray, Ivey, First Vice Tony Virrueta and members of Soledad American Legion Post 32 for helping with the ceremony.
The department also recognized community members, veterans, local officials, members of the Soledad City Council, Monterey County Supervisor Chris Lopez, Dominic Dursa from Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas’ office, representatives of the Soledad Unified School District and others who attended.
Soledad Historical Society also was thanked for providing a historical display highlighting the stories and sacrifices of those who served.
