Freedom isn't cheap - guardians of democracy celebrated at Veterans' Day ceremony in Los Angeles

Many military veterans served to preserve democracy - and some continue in public service today. Los Angeles' civic leaders lead this ceremonial salute to veterans of the US Armed Forces- presented at Forest Lawn Cemetery, Hollywood Hills, 11/11/11. 



Captain Justin Babcock, Company Commander, US Army Recruiting gives a profound, main address.

Video comments by L.A. County Supervisor (US Army Reservist) Michael Antonovich and L.A. County Sheriff Lee Baca. 

Musical performances by 42nd Highlanders Regimental Pipes & Drums (George Hall, pipemaster), vocalist Nick Palance sings "God Bless the USA," and patriotic musical accompaniment given by the Notre Dame Irish Knight Marching Band. Associations of Korean-Americans and and African-American Marines veterans sit prominently.

Memorial Day - inside the visits to the Veterans Cemetery

On Memorial Day, we reprise encounters at the Los Angeles National Cemetery last Veterans Day with:

A Vietnam-veteran grandfather brings his grandchildren to visit their heritage - and instill a sense of American identity ...

... And a journalism co-ed, educated through her family trips to national memorials -  who bemoans the apathy of many college students to commemorate the holiday - while other friends of hers serve and died to defend our freedom.