Hundreds of military veterans, retirees, and alumni with honorable discharges gathered at the 7th Street corner of Spreckels Park on June 6, the anniversary of D-Day, to rally and support those working or serving in the military.
Participants came together concerned about U.S Department of Veterans Affairs’ (VA) plans to reduce its workforce by around 80,000 jobs, which amounts to approximately 15% of its employees (according to a statement by VA Secretary Doug Collins). The cuts are being driven by the Trump Administration’s efforts to reduce federal government spending. This has raised concerns about the VA’s ability to maintain frontline roles of doctors, nurses, and veterans’ access to healthcare.
It was a sea of red, white, and blue as participants marched to the Orange Avenue median demanding the protection and support of VA services. With dogs barking, horns honking, and participants chanting in unison, the crowd’s energy gained momentum and drew attention from passersby…