Dear Friend --

This Memorial Day, as we pay tribute to those who’ve given their lives for our country, please also keep their families, friends and fellow veterans in your thoughts. Long Beach has a proud military history, especially with the Navy, and we honor this history every day.

The members of our Long Beach community who have been lost in service to our nation were our neighbors, friends and relatives. They made our country — and city — a better place through their courage. They have left behind loved ones and we owe each of them and their families a debt of gratitude.

As we begin to spend more time together and safely reconnect in-person after an incredibly difficult past 14 months, I encourage each of you to keep the spirit of Memorial Day in mind and hold these brave service members, and their families, in our thoughts.

Thank you,

Mayor Robert Garcia