Veterans honored at Faces of Freedom ceremony in Atascadero
Distinguished Veteran Awards presented during 18th annual ceremony
– Veterans Day 2025 gave tribute to Vietnam Veterans at Tuesday’s 18th annual ceremony at the Faces of Freedom in Atascadero.
Central Coast Viet Nam Veterans Association Chapter 92 presented the Colors. The Central Coast Pipes and Drums escorted them to the Faces of Freedom Statue.
Guest Speaker Captain Martin Tovar talked about his journey into the Army and over to Vietnam.
Captain George Marrett was honored with a Distinguished Veteran Award. Marrett flew over the event many times, but this was the first time he had attended. He served as a pilot with the US Air Force and flew 188 combat missions over Vietnam from 1968 to 1969.
Also honored was Boatswain’s Mate Third Class Richard LeGrand, who served in the Korean War on the aircraft carrier USS Antietam. Richard turned 94 years old in April.
John Dyer and Sandra Eatherly presented a wreath in memory of David Dyer and Kenneth Eatherly.
After the ceremony, veterans enjoyed the Atascadero Veterans Memorial Foundation Benefit BBQ sponsored by Atascadero Kiwanis. Donations from Greg and Dawn Slane, Sandy Silvera, and the SLO County Board of Supervisors provided 100 Veterans’ lunches.
Many veterans and their families visited booths around the park featuring organizations that support local veterans and active troops in our area.
