Annual Fields of Valor: Honoring Our Heroes

16th Annual Fields of Valor 2023: Honoring Our Heroes

CATHEDRAL CITY — Today, the Cathedral City Evening Rotary announced and began the 16th Annual Fields of Valor event, a heartfelt tribute to honor our brave heroes. This year’s event is being held at the picturesque Patriot Park, located at 33998 Date Palm Drive in Cathedral City. Fields of Valor aims to commemorate the sacrifices made by our servicemen and women, and to show our unwavering support for those who have served and continue to serve our great nation.

The event will feature a series of activities and ceremonies that will bring together the community in remembrance and celebration. We welcome everyone to join us in honoring our heroes on the following dates:

1. Opening Ceremony – Nov. 4, at 9 a.m.: The event will kick off with a solemn and inspiring Opening Ceremony. Paying tribute to the courage and selflessness of our military personnel, this ceremony will set the tone for the entire event.

Veterans honored:

• Amado Salinas

Amado C Salinas II served in the U.S. Navy under the rank of Petty Officer 2nd Class from 1976 to 1982. After his service, Amado went on to work on the SST Space Shuttle project for the Aerospace industry for Hughes Space & Communications. He then continued his work with Northrop Aircraft Division and the U.S. Department of Defense as a Systems Analyst until 1994. Amado now spends his time giving back to veterans by volunteering at the American Legion National Legislative Committee and the Veterans of Foreign Wars. Amado currently serves in the Department of California as a Judge Advocate and was also appointed to both the American Legion National Legislative Committee and the Constitution and Bylaws Committee. As part of his work, Amado works with elected Congressmen and Senators to advocate for Veterans issues as well as directly with Veterans and their families.

• Jeff Cole

Jeff Cole was born in Redlands, California and moved to the Coachella Valley in 1996. Graduated from Cathedral City High School in 2003 and enlisted in the Army as an infantryman in 2004. Jeff served two combat tours to Afghanistan and is currently the post commander of VFW Post 1534 in Desert Hot Springs. Jeff received the ARCOM with Valor while deployed on his first deployment to Afghanistan. The ARCOM is awarded to any member of the Armed Forces of the United States who distinguishes himself or herself by heroism, meritorious achievement or meritorious service.

Marines Birthday Celebration — Nov. 10, at 4 p.m. Join us as we commemorate the birthday of the United States Marine Corps. The celebration will include special ceremonies and activities to honor the rich history and traditions of the Marines.

Veterans Day — Nov. 11, at 9 a.m.: On this momentous day, join us in expressing our deepest gratitude to all veterans who have served our country. The Veterans Day ceremony will include heartfelt speeches, presentations, and a moment of silence to remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.

Closing Ceremony — Nov. 12, at 9 a.m. Concluding the powerful and emotional week of commemoration, the Closing Ceremony will provide an opportunity for reflection and gratitude. We will gather to express our appreciation for the dedication and sacrifice of our heroes.

Throughout the event, attendees will have the chance to enjoy delicious food, live music, and the company of Gold Star Families who have lost loved ones in service to our country. These families hold a special place in our hearts, and we encourage everyone to offer their support and gratitude during this time of remembrance.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to our sponsors, volunteers, and the community for their continued support in making Fields of Valor a cherished annual event. Together, we can ensure that the sacrifices of our heroes are never forgotten.