Heartfelt: Unveiling of the ‘Among the Valiant’ Mural Honors East L.A. Veterans

The East Los Angeles community recently celebrated the long-awaited completion of the mural titled “Among the Valiant”, a poignant tribute to local veterans. This significant event, held at the Ruben F. Salazar Park, marked the culmination of a project that began in 2006. The mural, which honors the sacrifices of veterans from East L.A., has been a labor of love and dedication for nearly two decades.

A Community’s Effort and Dedication

The journey to complete the mural started with the residents of East L.A. raising funds and gathering photographs of local veterans. From 2006 to 2009, seniors at the Ruben F. Salazar Park community center worked tirelessly to collect images and stories of their loved ones who served in the military. These efforts were aimed at creating a visual homage to the bravery and sacrifices of these veterans.

Artist Richard Haro was commissioned to bring this vision to life. Haro, an East L.A. native who studied art at East Los Angeles College, was known for his murals created during the 1960s and 1970s. He translated the collected photographs into a montage spanning multiple panels. However, due to funding issues and Haro’s untimely death, the mural remained incomplete for many years.

The Role of Local Leaders and Conservators

The completion of the mural would not have been possible without the support of local leaders and conservators. Los Angeles County Supervisor Hilda Solis played a pivotal role in the project’s revival. Recognizing the importance of honoring the community’s veterans, Solis allocated more than $29,000 to hire conservators to restore and install the remaining panels.

During the unveiling ceremony on July 26, 2024, Supervisor Solis expressed her gratitude and pride in the community’s efforts. “East Los Angeles is selfless. They give so much. Many wars, they gave their best. Young men and women fought in many wars to protect our country,” Solis stated. The event was also attended by actor Edward James Olmos, a native of East L.A., who emphasized the significance of the mural for future generations. “Because of you, the community, we are here today to celebrate who we are and what we are. For the community to understand us, for our children’s children to know who they are,” Olmos said.

The Mural’s Impact on the Community

The mural, now fully installed inside the community center at Ruben F. Salazar Park, serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by local veterans. It features images of veterans like Julian Montes Ramirez, who fought in World War II as a waist gunner on a B-17 airplane. His son, David, attended the unveiling and expressed a deep sense of pride. “I feel a sense of pride, especially for the relatives on the wall. There is a great sense of pride in the Latino community,” he said.

The completion of the mural has brought a sense of closure and fulfillment to many in the community. Isaiah Haro, the great-grandson of the late artist Richard Haro, shared his amazement at seeing the final installation. “As a kid, he was in the garage working on artwork. For us kids and grandchildren to see everything come to fruition is amazing,” Isaiah remarked.

Our Advice on the City

For those visiting Los Angeles, a trip to East L.A. offers a unique glimpse into the rich cultural heritage and community spirit of the area. The Ruben F. Salazar Park, now home to the completed “Among the Valiant” mural, is a must-visit. This mural not only honors the local veterans but also stands as a testament to the community’s resilience and dedication.

For occasional travelers, we recommend taking a guided tour of East L.A. to fully appreciate the historical and cultural significance of the area. The mural is just one of many landmarks that highlight the contributions of the Latino community to the city’s vibrant tapestry.

For expert travelers, consider exploring other murals and public art installations created by Richard Haro. His works, including the 40-panel piece at Sierra Park Elementary School and the art at Watts Towers Arts Center, offer deeper insights into the artistic legacy of East Los Angeles.

In conclusion, the completion of the “Among the Valiant” mural is a significant milestone for the East L.A. community. It serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by local veterans and the enduring spirit of the community. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, East Los Angeles has much to offer in terms of history, culture, and art.