Community members in Boyle Heights got a chance to offer their appreciation to military men and women on this Memorial Day.
Five hundred crew members of the USS Carl Vinson marched up the Sixth Street Bridge toward Boyle Heights.
Two young sailors, whose homes are in Norfolk, Virginia and Dallas Texas, told KNX News’ Pete Demetriou they felt right at home.
“It feels great, especially being on the other side of the world,” one of the sailors said.
“It feels like a second home, sir,” another one said.
Lieutenant Kelce Smith said the recognition and praise from people made her feel right at home.
“Anyone from the Navy, we're a big group,” she said. “If you run into anyone in they’re like, ‘My family served in this and that.’ It's great to hear the stories. You do feel like a big family and I feel like I'm just beginning my journey in the Navy.”
Demetriou reported that after the parade and greeting the crowd, about a third of the contingent went east, and lined up at food trucks at the end of the bridge.
Follow KNX News 97.1 FM
Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | TikTok