Set amidst the sweeping vistas of Forest Lawn, color guards in both Revolutionary War-era and modern military uniforms will converge this Presidents’ Day weekend for one of Los Angeles’s most enduring patriotic traditions. The outdoor celebration has been bringing Presidents’ Day commemorations to the community for over 30 years.
For this free, nonprofit-sponsored event, the Sons of Liberty Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution has transformed this corner of Hollywood Hills just west of Glendale into a living tableau of American military heritage.
This year’s Massing of Colors ceremony brings together approximately 70 color and honor guard units, spanning local schools, Reserve Officers’ Training Corps programs, historical societies, and all branches of the United States Military.
The one-hour ceremony weaves together several striking elements: a Warbirds fly-by executing the solemn Missing Man formation, artillery and firearm salutes, and military displays. The Blue Eagles Honor Guard from Edwards Air Force Base will lead the parade and execute ceremonial honors, joined by soldiers, sailors, Marines, and Air Force personnel representing their respective service branches. The uniformed Color Guards will present what the organizers describe as a “remarkable patriotic image.”
This “dazzling event,” as organizers call it, taking place just before Presidents’ Day, serves multiple purposes: honoring George Washington’s birthday, recognizing current military service members, and engaging young people in the community with living history.
The group’s announcement said the ceremony “empowers the youth of the community and recognizes our nation’s military while celebrating the leadership and contributions of General George Washington.”
The Massing of Colors ceremony takes place on Sunday, February 16 from 3:00-4:00 p.m. at Forest Lawn-Hollywood Hills, 6300 Forest Lawn Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90068. Admission and parking are free. For more information, contact Brigadier General David Smith at (661) 317-0858 or david@mojaveairport.com, or visit: https://sons-of-
