A group photo with the VRC, SBVC President and Joe Baca, Jr.
Students checking out a booth during the Veterans Day event

On November 12, the Veterans Resource Program at San Bernardino Valley College (SBVC) commemorated Veterans Day with a special Veterans Day Festival, marking 70 years since the holiday’s establishment. The celebration honored the service and sacrifice of veterans with a day filled with community connection, resources, and entertainment.

The event opened with a heartfelt rendition of the national anthem by SBVC student Kiara Gomez, setting the tone for a memorable day. Supervisor Joe Baca, Jr. joined in support, highlighting the community effort behind the event. “It’s a great event brought on by the SBVC Veterans Resource Center and a coalition of many veterans services. It’s important to continue to help our veterans. What the VRC has done today is brought all of these resources to the community, so hats off to them and congratulations,” said Baca.

The event included a resource fair offering essential veterans and basic needs services, complemented by live performances from local artists Crimson Revolver and Magnificent Mojo. Local high school troops were invited to showcase their marching drills, adding a sense of tradition and honor to the festivities. Unique attractions like a classic car show and an axe-throwing station provided attendees with a memorable experience.

Abraham Servantes, a U.S. Army veteran and current SBVC student, spoke at the event, sharing his inspiring journey from military service to pursuing higher education. “When I came to SBVC, I was welcomed at the Veterans Resource Center, where I was greeted by fellow veterans who understood my journey,” Servantes said. “Today, I’m in my second semester, working towards an AA in Business Administration, with a goal of earning a degree one day. Never let your past define you—always focus on the future.”

The SBVC Veterans Resource Program’s event exemplified the college’s commitment to veterans, fostering a sense of community and support for their journeys beyond service.