IRVINE, CA — Councilmember Melinda Liu of Irvine’s District 1 proudly honored the City of Irvine’s first-ever Flag Day ceremony on Saturday, June 14.
The event took place in front of the City of Irvine’s American flag display, prominently located at the intersection of Alton Parkway and Harvard Avenue. The celebration brought together residents, veterans, and civic leaders to commemorate the values and history symbolized by the American flag.
Curtis Drever, President of Love Irvine, started the ceremony with an invocation. Commander Michelle De La Cruz of American Legion Post 838 led the Pledge of Allegiance and explained the solemn meaning behind each item of an MIA/POW Table. Finally, Navy Veteran and President of the Black Chamber of Orange County, Bobby McDonald, who delivered a keynote address. Also in attendance were district directors from the offices of Congressman Dave Min and Assemblymember Cottie Petrie-Norris.
In his keynote speech, Bobby McDonald reflected on the deep ties between the U.S. Army and the American flag, a connection that is especially meaningful on the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army.
He also shared stories from the often-overlooked history of the 25th Infantry Bicycle Corps, highlighting the enduring spirit of patriotism and the contributions of the Buffalo Soldiers.
Councilmember Liu had the honor of presenting six American flags to local heroes who have served our nation in uniform and have continued their contributions in public service. A flag from Irvine was presented to Byron Salvatierra, an Irvine Army veteran who serves as a volunteer firefighter.
Congressman Min’s office offered two flags from the U.S. Capitol to be presented to Commander Michelle De La Cruz and Glenn Shingu, Marine veterans who are now serving in leadership roles at the local American Legion. Three of the flags shipped from the U.S. Embassy in Hanoi, Vietnam, were presented to honorees who served during the Vietnam War: Bobby McDonald, Nick Bernandino, and Colonels Alice and Norman Marshall.
Navy veteran Bobby McDonald has been advocating for small businesses and promoting education in Orange County for decades, following his return to civilian life after serving two tours during the Vietnam War. Similarly, Nick Berardino, President of The Veterans Alliance of Orange County (VALOR), spent decades protecting working families and championing veteran services after retiring from the Marine Corps. The ceremony also recognized U.S. Marine Corps Colonels Alice and Norman Marshall for their distinguished service. Colonel Alice Marshall, who served as Chief of Staff, Adjutant, and Squadron Executive Officer, was recognized for her role as Assistant Operations Officer at the Vietnamese Refugee Relocation Center. Her husband, Colonel Norman Marshall, was recognized for his extraordinary bravery for completing over 200 combat missions during his two tours in Vietnam.
They are now working to establish the Flying Letherneck Aviation Museum at Irvine’s Great Park. This inaugural Flag Day celebration served as a powerful reminder that freedom is not free, that the flag belongs to all Americans, and that its meaning is rooted in service, sacrifice, and unity. “On this Flag Day and the U.S. Army’s birthday, we celebrate the United States as a beacon of democracy to the world and recognize the men and women whose actions embody these founding principles [of equity and inalienable rights],” said Councilmember Liu. She continued, “This Flag commands our unwavering commitment to protect democracy, so our future generations can enjoy the same opportunities of achieving their American Dream.”
Councilmember Liu extends her heartfelt appreciation to all who attended and to the City of Irvine for making this historic event possible. She looks forward to celebrating Flag Day in the years to come and continuing to recognize local veterans who exemplify the values upon which this nation was founded.
For more information or further questions about the resolution, please reach out to Councilmember Liu’s office at MelindaLiu@cityofirvine.org.
