The City of Malibu is putting on a celebration this Fourth of July, honoring local firefighters, policemen, lifeguards, citizen veterans and others who serve their community, and even flying in a couple of “adopted” heroes from Kentucky.
“We’ve never done anything similar to this and it’s high time we did it,” said Mayor Pro Tem Ken Kearsley about the City Council’s initiative to honor these brave men and women.
The City Council adopted the Alpha Company, Second Battalion, 327th Infantry, First Brigade of the prestigious 101st Airborne Division, Fort Campbell, Kentucky in January through an adopt-a-unit program run by America Supporting Americans (ASA).
A nonprofit organization, ASA’s mission is to find ways for cities across America to show their support for the U.S. Armed Services. Two driving forces of the ASA Pacific Palisades chapter are Steve and Linda Patterson. Steve Patterson, who is a highly decorated Veteran of the 101st Airborne in Vietnam, will receive a plaque at the Heroes Day ceremony.
Kearsley said he left it up to the Alpha Company commander to select the two individuals who best deserved the Malibu retreat; the lucky ones are First Sgt. Brent Holman and Staff Sgt. Steven Johnson. Apart from receiving plaques and recognition at the Heroes Day celebration, they will spend a five-day vacation with their wives in Malibu.
“They are going to have a grand time,” Kearsley said. “And not one cent is coming out of the city-everything is donated.”
Local residents and businesses have pitched in to make sure these special guests have a memorable visit. For instance, Ozzie Silna volunteered to cover the airfare and hotel costs; Budget Rent-a-Car will loan the four a free car; talent agency Creative Artists will take them to and from the airport in a limousine; local restaurants Tra Di Nois and Granita will offer complimentary dinners; and Malibu Inn will serve them free breakfast.
“This is something that every city should be doing,” Kearsley said. “If all the towns in America adopted units, the guys wouldn’t be lonely out there in Afghanistan.”
Featuring plenty of activities for all ages, the event will run from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
According to Recreational Supervisor Amy Crittenden, who is organizing the event, children can enjoy watermelon and pie eating contests, free carnival-like games and a tug-of-war against the firemen. Also, emergency services professionals will display and demonstrate different kinds of rescue equipment. And as a bonus, local up-and-coming musicians will be performing between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
“We’re going to have a lot of great entertainment,” Crittenden said.
The highlight of the day is the special tribute at 11:15 a.m. when local heroes will receive recognition, along with the two enlisted men from Kentucky.