This Veterans Day, I was honored to serve as a keynote speaker at the grand opening of the Captain Joseph McConnell Jr. USAF Park in Apple Valley — a tribute not only to Captain McConnell’s legacy but to all our nation’s Veterans who have served with courage and dedication.
Surrounded by community members and special guests, I was inspired by the significance of this special event. It was especially meaningful to share the day with Captain McConnell’s daughter, Trish McConnell, who represented her father during this special ceremony.
Funded in part by the Prop 68 Statewide Park Program, this beautiful new space will offer so much to our community — a running track, lighted football and baseball fields, two soccer fields, an inclusive playground, picnic shelters, dog park, and much more.
I’d also like to thank fellow speakers Armando Quintero, Director of the California Department of Parks and Recreation; Michael Croy, Commander of Hesperia Post 2924; Town of Apple Valley Mayor Scott Nassif; and author Don Holland, who is writing a biography about Capt. McConnell and presented a wall plaque to Trish during the ceremony.
Additional thanks goes to the Granite Hills High School Chamber for their beautiful rendition of the National Anthem and to the AAE Junior ROTC Color Guard for their dignified Presentation of the Colors.
It was a day filled with pride, remembrance, and deep gratitude for all Veterans — a fitting tribute to those who have sacrificed so much for our freedom.
The park is located at 21878 Pah-Ute Avenue in Apple Valley.
