Burbank marks Memorial Day with flyover, readings and veteran remembrances

Burbank residents gathered at McHenry Park on Memorial Day for a Veterans Committee ceremony that featured a flyover, readings of the names of fallen service members, musical tributes and remarks from city leaders.

The event opened with the committee host thanking sponsors — including VFW 83 10 (as announced), the Bertain and Baldessaroni families, local pick-up groups and individual donors — and noting a flyover expected at about 11:05 a.m. "You made the flyover happen today," the host said, and asked attendees to stand during the service medley when their branch's song played.

The Burbank Community Band performed and a soloist from the JVHS powerhouse choir sang the national anthem. The host apologized when he misnamed the anthem singer and introduced performers Bobby and Bryce Cranston, who performed a cover of "Forever Young." "They have graced us several years now," the host said after the song.

Mayor Tamela Takahashi, who identified herself as the mayor of Burbank, thanked volunteers and staff who organized the event and recognized local officials in attendance, including representatives from elected offices and city departments. "We gather as a community to remember the brave men and women who serve our nation with unwavering dedication," the mayor said, urging the audience to reaffirm commitment to remembering service and sacrifice.

Mayor Takahashi introduced Col. Nancy J. Sumner, former commander of the 146th Medical Group in the Air National Guard, who reflected on her experience attending the Vietnam Women's Memorial dedication and on the evolving faces and needs of veterans. Col. Sumner said the memorial honoring women who served was an important step toward recognition: "We must always remember that peace is fragile and needs constant vigilance."

A central portion of the ceremony was the Ceremony of the Rose: volunteer readers, including Karen Sartoros and other community members, read long lists of names from World War I, World War II, Korea, Vietnam and other conflicts while attendees were invited to place roses in tribute. Organizers emphasized the role of youth volunteers — Scouts of America (Verdugo Hills Council) and the American Heritage Girls — in carrying the tradition forward.

An invocation and benediction were delivered by Paul McKenna, and the band performed "Amazing Grace." An organizer explained the Memorial Day flag protocol described at the ceremony, saying the flag remains at half-staff until noon and is then raised to full staff to mark the nation's resolve to honor those who have fallen.

Before adjourning, the host invited attendees to visit the Veterans Affairs information booth on-site for help with claims and services and noted that the VFW and Elks would host a barbecue later in the day. The ceremony closed with a reading of a reflective quote for families of the fallen and a reminder of community support.

The ceremony was ceremonial and commemorative in nature; no formal city actions or votes were taken during the event.