Copyright Santa Clarita Valley Signal
The Santa Clarita Valley Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the city of Santa Clarita, recognized the everyday heroes who continue to be of service even after their military careers on Wednesday evening at the SCV Senior Center at Bella Vida. Local dignitaries gathered to recognize the veterans for their contributions in the SCV through various ways that postiviely impact the community, and the six individuals honored this year were: Anthony Straight, Vernon Charles Miller, Juan Blanco, Robert Lasher, Sheriff’s Deputy Keith Wells, and Eric White. The seventh honoree, Camille Applin-Jones, could not be present during the ceremony and will be honored next year. The ceremony is a way to thank local veterans for their “unwavering service, your profound sacrifice and your steadfast dedication to safeguarding the freedoms we cherish as Americans,” said Di Thompson, 2025 chair of the board for the SCV Chamber. “You are not only defenders of our country, but also the pride of our community. You are heroes, both nationally and right here at home.” Community members across the SCV can nominate veterans who have positively impacted the SCV business community and may not often get recognized but are still worthy of the honor, said Ivan Volschenk, president and CEO of the SCV Chamber. As each honoree was called up to the podium, local leaders read a brief description as to why they received the honor, but all had one thing in common: making the SCV stronger and brighter for veterans and nonveterans. Emily White introduced her husband, Eric, as an honoree, which was something he never expected, she said, but was well deserved. “I love that he has a servant’s heart. Anybody and everybody that he meets, if he can serve them in any way, he just goes out of his way to do that,” she said. Lasher, who offers his services at the SCV Food Pantry, said it has allowed him to be of service for those who are in need of food and has given him a purpose after he lost his wife during the pandemic, he said. “It was nice that they were there to help me out and for me to help them out,” Lasher said. Santa Clarita Mayor Bill Miranda emphasized the importance of supporting veterans after their service and reassured guests in attendance that the city always strives to do so. “This community supports our veterans and always has, always will. It is very important that we understand everything veterans have been through, are going through, and unfortunately, will go through in the future,” Miranda said. “We have to take care of all our veterans, and we have to treat them right and fair … our city supports you.”
