https://SalinasHometownHeroes.org/, https://www.instagram.com/salinashometownheroes

Salinas Hometown Heroes Banners, 820 Park Row # 953, Salinas, CA (2026)

08/01/2026

Remembering the Korean War, Honoring Our Heroes

As we close our series honoring the Korean War generation, we recognize three Salinas Hometown Heroes whose service represents courage, sacrifice, and dedication across different chapters of our nation's military history.

Edward J. Heinz
U.S. Army | 1942–1953
His service took him to Norway, Northern France, the Rhineland, and Central Europe, continuing from World War II into the Korean War era. His decorations include the Army of Occupation Medal (Germany) and the Korean Service Medal with three bronze service stars.

James Claude Ramsey
U.S. Army Lieutenant | 1944–1950
He served during World War II and the Korean War and died from injuries sustained in Korea. As we recognize his service, we also remember the sacrifice he made and the family and community who carried his memory home.

Alan “Buddy” Roddick
U.S. Marine Corps Sergeant | 1952–1955
A machine gunner with 1st Battalion, 4th Marines, 3rd Marine Division, FMF, he served in Japan during the Korean War era. His decorations include the Korean Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, United Nations Service Medal, and National Defense Service Medal.

Over the past several days, we've had the privilege of highlighting Salinas Hometown Heroes who were part of the Korean War generation. Their experiences were different. Some served across multiple conflicts, some spent years building careers in uniform, and some made the ultimate sacrifice.

The Korean War is often called the "Forgotten War," but these veterans are not forgotten.

To all who served during the Korean War, and to the families who have carried their legacies forward, we remember and honor you.

07/31/2026

Remembering the Korean War, Honoring Our Heroes

Today, we are honored to highlight four Salinas Hometown Heroes whose service represents the courage, dedication, and sacrifice of the Korean War generation. These four veterans are currently displayed as part of the 2026 Salinas Hometown Heroes Banner Program throughout downtown Salinas. We invite you to visit Oldtown, find their banners, and take a moment to honor their service.

Stanley Garth Parker
U.S. Army
1942–1979

Albert Joseph Larronde
U.S. Army
1951–1952

James Frank Hall
U.S. Army
1947–1965

Harold Gordon
U.S. Army
1951–1953

The Korean War lasted 3 years, 1 month, and 2 days, from June 25, 1950, to July 27, 1953. Though relatively short in duration, its impact has been felt for generations, and the service and sacrifice of those who answered our nation's call continue to be remembered today.

Whether their service began before the Korean War, continued long after the armistice, or took place during the conflict itself, each played a role in a generation defined by courage, duty, and commitment to our nation.

We are honored to preserve their legacy and ensure their service continues to inspire future generations. Join us throughout the week as we continue highlighting Salinas Hometown Heroes whose service reflects the legacy of the Korean War generation.

07/30/2026

Remembering the Korean War, Honoring Our Heroes

Nearly 7,200 American service members remain unaccounted for from the Korean War, making it one of the largest ongoing POW/MIA recovery efforts in U.S. history. Decades later, efforts continue to account for those who never returned home, providing answers to their families and honoring their service. The commitment to never leave a service member behind remains an enduring promise.

Today, we are honored to highlight two Salinas Hometown Heroes whose service represents the courage, dedication, and sacrifice of the Korean War generation.

Carlos A. Magpusao
U.S. Army
1951–1958

George Hepfl Sr.
U.S. Army
1944–1973

As we continue our Korean War Veterans Week series, we honor not only those who returned home, but also those who remain missing and the families who continue to await answers. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten.

https://www.dpaa.mil/

07/29/2026

Remembering the Korean War, Honoring Our Heroes

Did you know? The Korean War was the first major armed conflict of the Cold War. It brought together a United Nations coalition, led by the United States, in defense of South Korea. Twenty-two nations contributed combat forces or medical support, demonstrating an international commitment to defending freedom.

Today, we are honored to highlight four Salinas Hometown Heroes whose service reflects the dedication and sacrifice of the Korean War generation.

Jack Edward Smailes
U.S. Army
1950–1970

James Guido Ferrasci
U.S. Army
1951–1956

Sam Daniels
U.S. Army
1953-1975

Albert C. Serasio
U.S. Army
1953-1954

Thank you to these Salinas Hometown Heroes for your service and for the legacy you leave for future generations.

Join us throughout the week as we continue highlighting Salinas Hometown Heroes whose service reflects the legacy of the Korean War generation.

https://www.nps.gov/kowa/learn/historyculture/korean-war-overview.htm?utm_source

07/28/2026

Remembering the Korean War, Honoring Our Heroes

Nearly 1.8 million Americans answered the call to serve during the Korean War. More than 36,000 U.S. service members gave their lives, and over 103,000 were wounded in defense of freedom.

Although often referred to as the "Forgotten War," the service and sacrifice of these veterans should never be forgotten.

Today, we are honored to recognize two Salinas Hometown Heroes whose years of service reflect this remarkable generation of Americans.

Manuel Hernandez
U.S. Army
1943–1968

William Edward Parker
U.S. Navy
1950–1955

Through the Salinas Hometown Heroes Banner Program, we are proud to honor and preserve the legacy of local veterans who have served our nation with courage and distinction.

Join us throughout the week as we continue highlighting Salinas Hometown Heroes whose service reflects the legacy of the Korean War generation.

07/28/2026

Remembering the Korean War and Honoring Those Who Served

Today, July 27, marks National Korean War Veterans Armistice Day, commemorating the signing of the Korean Armistice Agreement in 1953. Although often called the "Forgotten War," the courage, sacrifice, and service of the men and women who answered our nation's call should never be forgotten.

The Salinas Hometown Heroes Banner Program is proud to have honored many local Korean War veterans whose service helped defend freedom and shaped the generations that followed. Their stories are an important part of our community's history.

Throughout this week, we'll be featuring several of these remarkable Salinas Hometown Heroes, sharing their stories of service, sacrifice, and dedication to our country.

Please join us as we remember our Korean War veterans and celebrate the local heroes whose legacies continue to inspire our community.

07/04/2026

As the United States of America celebrates 250 years of independence, we honor the generations of Americans who have answered the call to serve.

This Fourth of July, we recognize five Salinas Hometown Heroes whose lives represent different chapters of our nation's military history:

⭐ John Edward Laughton – U.S. Merchant Marine (World War II, 1942-1945) – Survived a kamikaze attack, rescued fellow servicemen, and was later awarded the Congressional Gold Medal.

⭐ George Hepfl, Sr. – U.S. Army (World War II, Korean War & Vietnam Era, 1944-1973) – Captured on the first day of the Battle of the Bulge, endured life as a prisoner of war, received the Purple Heart, and continued serving through three conflicts.

⭐ Casimir Gorczyca – U.S. Army (Vietnam Era, 1957-1978) – Army physician who cared for American prisoners of war returning home from Vietnam, helping them begin their journey of healing.

⭐ Joseph Sanchez – U.S. Army (Vietnam Era, 1970-1976) – Bronze Star recipient, Sniper School graduate, and Fort Ord Soldier who served with distinction during the Vietnam War.

⭐ Joan H. Bennett – U.S. Navy (24 years of service, including Vietnam, 1965-1989) – Served at the highest levels of military leadership, including the Joint Chiefs of Staff and the Office of the Secretary of Defense, helping pave the way for future generations of women in uniform.

For 250 years, Americans from every generation have stepped forward to defend the freedoms we celebrate today. These Salinas Hometown Heroes remind us that while the uniforms, technology, and missions have changed, the values of courage, sacrifice, and service remain constant.

Today, we celebrate not only our nation's independence, but the generations of men and women whose service has helped preserve it.

Happy Fourth of July from the Salinas Hometown Heroes Banner Program.

06/14/2026

Today, on Flag Day, we celebrate more than a symbol. We celebrate the story of our nation and the generations of Americans who have served under its colors.

As part of the 2026 Salinas Hometown Heroes Banner Program and in recognition of America's upcoming 250th birthday, we incorporated six historic versions of the American flag throughout our display. In the nearly 250-year history of our nation, there have been 28 official versions of the American flag. We selected six that represent pivotal moments in our country's journey and the generations of service members who helped shape and defend it.

⭐1776 The Betsy Ross flag is an early American design featuring 13 alternating red and white stripes and 13 white stars arranged in a circle on a blue canton. These stars represent the first thirteen states, formed from the former British colonies. While its origin is historically debated, it remains an iconic symbol of the American Revolution and national unity.

⭐1795 A flag with 15 stars and 15 stripes is the historical United States flag that flew from 1795 to 1818. Known as the Star-Spangled Banner or Fort McHenry Flag, it was authorized to welcome Vermont (the 14th state) and Kentucky (the 15th state) to the Union. It is said to have inspired Francis Scott Key to compose our National Anthem.

⭐1851-1858 Most variations of the flag were implemented by adding a star for each new state, as they joined the Union. The 31-star U.S. flag became the official flag of the United States on July 4, 1851, following the admission of California as the 31st state. This flag flew for seven years until July 3, 1858, when a 32nd star was added for Minnesota.

⭐1861-1865 Civil War Era Flags – Two flags on particular note are the two variations that flew through the course of the Civil War. The 33-star flag was flying over the battle of Fort Sumter, the fateful attack that would mark the start of the Civil War. As southern states seceded from the Union, many thought the stars should go with them, but President Abraham Lincoln – having faith in the restoration of the Union - refused to remove them. In 1863, following West Virginia's split from Virginia, the ensign was officially changed to the 35-star flag.

⭐1912-1959 48-Star Flag – Many versions of our flag have been carried into battle over the years. The 48-star flag - the Flag of the Greatest Generation - was the official flag of the United States for 47 years between 1912 and 1959. Adopted to welcome New Mexico and Arizona, it holds deep historical significance as the banner flown by U.S. troops during both World Wars and the Korean War.

⭐1960-Present 50-Star Flag – The current 50-star American flag features 13 horizontal stripes and a blue canton containing 50 white stars. Officially adopted on July 4, 1960, after Hawaii’s statehood, it holds the record as the longest-serving U.S. flag design in history.

As we look toward America's 250th anniversary, may we remember the sacrifices made under each of these flags and the heroes whose legacy continues to inspire our community.

The changes in our flag mirror the changes our nation has experienced throughout its history. Like our country itself, the American flag remains a living symbol of growth, resilience, and progress. As America continues its journey, future generations may one day see new chapters added to that story.

Have you spotted all six historic flags? As we prepare to celebrate America's 250th birthday, we invite you to look for each one in downtown Salinas. Every flag tells a story of our nation's growth and the generations of service members who defended the freedoms it represents.

Thank you to all who have worn and continue to wear the uniform and defended our nation's colors.

05/20/2026

HERO COMING HOME 🇺🇸

After more than 80 years, U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Carl F. Abbott, a World War II POW/MIA and member of Company C, 194th Tank Battalion, is finally coming home.

Last year, Salinas Hometown Heroes was honored to recognize the brave men of Company C through a special banner installation. Seeing Staff Sgt. Abbott's return home makes this moment especially meaningful for our community.

The family invites the community to stand along the es**rt route on Friday, May 22nd, as Staff Sgt. Abbott is es**rted from Struve and Laporte Funeral Home along John Street to Abbott Street and Garden of Memories Cemetery.

Community members are especially encouraged to stand along Abbott Street and near the cemetery entrance. Please be in place by 1:30 pm to help give this hero the welcome home he has deserved for more than 80 years.

Burial & Military Honors in Salinas – May 22, 2026

Please help share and join us in honoring one of our nation’s heroes.

Welcome home, Staff Sgt. Abbott. 🇺🇸

05/18/2026

Yesterday, on Armed Forces Day, our community came together in downtown Salinas for the Salinas Hometown Heroes Banner Ceremony honoring 70 local heroes.

Seeing the banners displayed throughout downtown was a powerful reminder of the many veterans and service members who have helped shape our community across generations.

Thank you to First Lieutenant Aaron Lucio with the United States Army Recruiting Company for sharing thoughtful words about service and the importance of continuing to honor those who serve.

One of the special moments of the ceremony was hearing Deacon Carl Figenshow share memories of his son Matthew, whose banner is now proudly displayed in downtown Salinas. It was a meaningful reminder that every banner represents a person, a family, and a story connected to our community.

Thank you to everyone who attended, volunteered, supported, and helped make yesterday so meaningful.

Salinas Hometown Heroes Banners

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