BY ANAHID ANNA PINEDJIAN
Glendale commemorated Memorial Day the morning of May 26th, 2026, outside the entrance of Glendale’s City Hall. It began with a performance of the National Anthem by Glendale High School’s own Elliott Williams and welcoming remarks from Interim Police Chief Robert William who said, “You have come together today because you and so many of your family members have given so much to the United States.” He added, “It is my honor to be here today to introduce those who ultimately sacrificed their lives to protect the United States of America and preserve our freedom as well as our city’s first responders. They will never be forgotten and I would like to ask each one of you to reflect on the sacrifice of our servicemen and women. Thank you for being with us today.”
Lt. José Barajas, one of Glendale’s own heroes, was the featured speaker who honored the Gold Star Families he remembered from his childhood experiences seeing stars accumulate one-by-one in the windows of neighbors and friends. His career reflects service in Iraq, Kuwait, anti-terrorism events, the 9/11 disaster, and the rescue of Prisoner of War Jessica Lynch, and more.
The event was organized by Glendale City Manager staff officer, Annette Ghazarian in collaboration with the Police Department. The opening included Sammy Ochoa and Glendale Police Explorers ceremoniously laid the rose on the five marble walls representing those who have given their lives for this country.
Glendale City Mayor Ardy Kassakhian delivered a passionate speech about the contributions given from the beginning by immigrants who came here and served their new country. Dignitary guests included California State Assembly member Nick Schultz who spoke of the sacrifices of our armed service personnel and Los Angeles County Assessor, Jeffrey Prang, who emphasized 250 years of liberty, democracy, and self- determination from revolution to today.
Also present and supporting the community were Glendale Council Members Ara Najarian, Elen Asatryan, Vartan Gharpetian, Dan Brotman and City Clerk Suzie Abajian, City Treasurer, Rafi Manoukian, and the Glendale Coalition of Veterans.