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A bright light will shine from the top of Mount Diablo in recognition of military members who gave the ultimate sacrifice this Memorial Day.
The historic aviation beacon atop the mountain will be illuminated during a ceremony in Danville on Monday evening – hours after Danville will host its 33rd annual Memorial Day Remembrance at the All Wars Memorial in Oak Hill Park.
“Events like the Memorial Day beacon lighting hold profound significance for our community in Danville,” Mayor Renee Morgan told DanvilleSanRamon. “They serve as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by our servicemen and women, honoring their dedication and bravery. This event allows us to come together to pay our respects and reflect on the impact of their service.”
“The beacon symbolizes hope, resilience and remembrance, serving as a guiding light home,” added Morgan, who will deliver remarks at the lighting ceremony at the Danville Veterans Memorial Building in downtown. (The beacon will be turned remotely at the event.)
The holiday will begin with the public remembrance event organized by the Viet Nam Veterans of Diablo Valley at the park on Stone Valley Road. Live music will welcome attendees starting at 10:30 a.m. Monday (May 26), and the formal program will follow at 11 a.m. The featured speaker will be retired U.S. Coast Guard Rear Adm. Mary P. O’Donnell.
Then Monday evening, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 75 and other local veterans groups are putting on the beacon-lighting ceremony.
The program beginning at 8 p.m. will include a performance of “The Star-Spangled Banner” by Karley Conde, remarks from Morgan and Vietnam War veteran Pat Leary, and a rendition of “Taps” by Joe McHale. “At sunset (8:21 p.m.), participants will press the ceremonial button to light the Beacon atop Mount Diablo — an enduring symbol of remembrance, resilience and gratitude,” organizers said.
Morgan said her thoughts this Memorial Day are with her late father, who served in the military for 30 years.
“His commitment to his country instilled in me a deep appreciation for the values of duty, service and sacrifice,” she said. “Since his passing, Memorial Day has transformed into a poignant occasion for me — a time to remember and celebrate his life, as well as the countless others who have served and made the ultimate sacrifice.”
“The beacon also reminds us that, while our loved ones may no longer be with us, their spirit continues to illuminate our paths,” Morgan said. “The light signifies unity and a sense of belonging, guiding us back to the values they fought for — freedom, honor and community.”
“This Memorial Day, I reflect on the lessons my father imparted and the strength we draw from honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice,” the mayor added. “On Memorial Day, we reaffirm our commitment to uphold the ideals for which our military fought and died for.”
