(Sylvie Belmond | CLAIR – Simi Valley, CA) — It started with a toothbrush, but it became a movement. On March 8, the Reagan Presidential Library transformed into a powerful tribute to America’s military, past and present. The 12th Annual Military Tribute Gala, hosted by For The Troops, brought together 411 attendees, including veterans, community leaders, and supporters, for an evening of honor, gratitude, and action.
Simi Valley is special because its residents truly support active-duty military members and veterans. The city has long been a place where patriotism is more than a sentiment—it’s an ongoing commitment to those who serve.
Honoring World War II Veterans
A highlight of the evening was the recognition of three remarkable World War II veterans:
- Vernon Ricks, 104, of Thousand Oaks, who will turn 105 on April 19.
- Mack Edwards, 104, of Ventura.
- Al Schuster, a paratrooper with the 101st Airborne Division, who was among those dropped into Normandy on D-Day.
Supervisor Jeff Gorell opened the event by recognizing these veterans along with other distinguished service members from World War II and the Korean War.
A Night of Tribute and Remembrance
The event was emceed by KTLA Weekend News anchor Rick Chambers and featured musical performances by The Steve Wilkinson Band and singer-songwriter Jenna Venarde. Katherine Reaves sang the National Anthem, setting the tone for an evening filled with heartfelt tributes.
The featured speaker, Major Daniel Spencer, a decorated Iraq War veteran, spoke about the vital work of For The Troops. He shared a poignant story about three U.S. soldiers who died in Jordan on January 29, 2024, following a drone attack. All three had previously received care packages from For The Troops.
Community Leaders in Attendance
The gala drew a distinguished crowd, including:
- State Senator Caroline Menjivar
- Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin
- Ventura County Supervisors Janice Parvin and Jeff Gorell
- Ventura County Sheriff Jim Fryhoff
- Simi Valley Mayor Dee Dee Cavanaugh
- Oxnard Mayor Luis McArthur
- Port Hueneme Mayor Pro Tem Jess Lopez
- Santa Rosa Valley Councilwoman Rosemary Allison
- Ventura County CEO Dr. Sevet Johnson
- Cultural Heritage Commissioner Anthony Angelini
- Simi Valley Planning Commissioner Ivana Christmann
Supporting Those Who Protect Us
For The Troops is a volunteer-run organization that provides “We Care” packages filled with essentials like toiletries, snacks, socks, games, and handwritten letters. These small comforts remind service members that they are not forgotten.
The organization’s work started in 2005, inspired by a simple moment when founder Paula Cornell’s husband recalled not brushing his teeth for a year in Vietnam. This realization led to a mission: ensuring no deployed service member goes without basic necessities.
Today, volunteers in Simi Valley pack thousands of these boxes, with local schools, senior groups, and residents writing personal letters for inclusion.
Continuing the Mission
With strong community backing, For The Troops continues to expand its reach. Events like the Military Tribute Gala ensure the organization can keep sending care packages to troops stationed around the world.
For those looking to contribute, donations of supplies, letters, and financial support are always welcome. For more information, visit forthetroops.org.
Through events like this, For The Troops upholds its mission: “We support them while they protect us.”
