Gresham Veterans Day Ceremony Highlights Community Support and Memorial Restoration Efforts
Gresham, Oregon, recently held its 2026 Veterans Day Ceremony at the Heroes Memorial, hosted by the Gresham Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 180. The event featured a presentation of colors by Gresham Scouts Troop 664, an invocation by a veteran chaplain, speeches from elected officials and veterans, and the laying of commemorative wreaths for all military branches. Mayor Travis Stovall emphasized the importance of supporting veterans beyond just one day a year, a sentiment echoed by Gresham City Councilor Sue Piazza. The ceremony also brought to light the deteriorating condition of the Heroes Memorial, where plaques honoring local veterans are rusting, illegible, or have been vandalized. State Representative Ricki Ruiz, D-Gresham, announced plans to seek $250,000 in funding during the upcoming Oregon legislative session to repair and maintain the memorial, including replacing damaged plaques and constructing an ornate fence to deter future vandalism.