SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. – The American Legion Post #795 Commander, Tom Millham, looked out over the crowd gathered for Wednesday’s annual Veterans Day ceremony. He estimated 150 people gathered to pay tribute to veterans, the largest crowd he’d seen at one of the Legion’s ceremonies. It was a sunny and pleasant day, a big difference compared to last year’s event, which was forced inside due to a snowstorm.
Members of area law enforcement, fire districts, the American Legion, local veterans, Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts, and the public attended the 11 a.m. ceremony.
Millham introduced the first responders who also served in the military, all with a “common and shareable bond.”
Pat Frega was the El Dorado County representative, reading the Board of Supervisors’ proclamation:
On this Veterans Day 2026, there is a solemn recognition that in the fight against evil, there is no middle ground, no neutrality, no negotiation. Today, we come together to honor all the men and women of the United States Armed Forces who, for over the past 250 years, have demonstrated fierce bravery and an unwavering commitment to stand against oppression, tyranny, and despotism in defense of liberty and freedom.
WHEREAS, we gather at the El Dorado County Veterans Monument to honor and offer our deep gratitude to the Veterans of the United States Armed Forces whose service and sacrifice continues to ensure that the United States is a shining beacon of freedom in a world struggling under the weight of oppression and tyranny; and
WHEREAS, our country draws her strength from the 18.5 million veterans and their families who bear the untold burdens of military service. As our veterans safeguard the blessings of liberty, defend our shores, and fight the demons of despotism wherever they threaten freedom and humanity, it is those at home who nurture community and families while fighting fear and loneliness as well as the grind, complexity, and weight of everyday life; and
WHEREAS, we offer our deep and heartfelt thanks to our veterans and their families, recognizing that the peace and quality of life that we so freely enjoy is hard-won and secured through their dedicated patriotism and sacrifice.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT PROCLAIMED, the Board of Supervisors of the County of El Dorado recognizes November 11, 2026, as Veterans Day and calls upon the citizens of El Dorado County to observe and appreciate the sacrifices and contributions of our veterans and their families.
Passed and adopted by the Board of Supervisors of the County of El Dorado at a regular meeting, held the 3rd day of November 2026.
South Lake Tahoe Police Chief Jeff Roberson also spoke during the ceremony, along with Daughters of the American Revolution Regent Tanya Barnes. The special guest speaker was local resident, retired Coast Guard Rear Admiral Carlton D. Moore.
Moore highlighted the fact that 5.9 percent of American adults are veterans, including 80 veterans in the House of Representatives and 20 in the U.S. Senate, and 45 U.S. Presidents.
The retired rear admiral also spoke of a current dilemma facing today’s armed forces: young people are not being encouraged to enlist, and 77 percent of today’s youth do not qualify for three reasons: 1) not in shape; 2) have a felony; and 3) cannot get a high school equivalency diploma.
