Why Memorial Day Means So Much to Us & How We Honored Our Heroes This Memorial Day

At Nuvision, Memorial Day isn’t just another holiday or a chance to relax—it’s a meaningful day where we stop to remember and honor the brave men and women who gave their lives serving our country. It’s a moment to reflect, say thank you, and recognize that our freedom didn’t come free. And beyond remembering those we’ve lost, it's also a day to appreciate the veterans and active-duty service members who continue to serve our country and communities every day.

This year, we had the privilege of hosting and sponsoring events across California, Wyoming, and Alaska, joining our neighbors, friends, and local heroes to say thank you in a big way.

Southern California: Honoring Our Heroes Lunch

In Southern California, we hosted the "Honoring Our Heroes: Memorial Day Lunch" at the Heroes Hall Museum in Costa Mesa. Guests enjoyed lunch together in the Medal of Honor Courtyard, right next to the Orange County Walk of Honor, which recognizes local Medal of Honor recipients. Inside the museum, we heard incredible stories of bravery from local veterans—stories that reminded everyone exactly why we gather each Memorial Day.

Having veterans, active-duty military, and the amazing students from the Lakewood High School JROTC join us, made the day especially meaningful. It was great seeing students spend time with veterans and service members, sharing stories and getting to know each other better.

Inaugural Bay Area Heroes Luncheon

We were honored to hold our first-ever Memorial Day Luncheon in the Bay Area, as we partnered with VFW Post 1351 and American Legion Post 29 to serve lunch to more than 80 veterans and active military at the Veterans Memorial Building in Martinez.  During the event we were proud to present $1,500 donations to two amazing Bay Area veteran support organizations, Delta Veterans Group, and Diablo Valley Veterans Foundation, in support of their ongoing missions to help veterans.

The local professional baseball team, the Martinez Sturgeon, joined us at the event, helping us serve lunch and spending time with our military heroes to make the afternoon a memorable, special time for everyone.

Wyoming: Celebrating Our Military Community

In Cheyenne, we were proud to sponsor the 2025 Military May Luncheon hosted by the Greater Cheyenne Chamber of Commerce. It was at this event that we got to recognize Silvio Ayars with our Nuvision Hero Award. Silvio is an incredible example of someone who continues to serve his community long after retiring from active duty, working tirelessly to support fellow veterans through peer groups across Wyoming. While Memorial Day honors those who have fallen, it's also a meaningful time to highlight veterans like Silvio who keep serving the community and making a difference.

Also in Cheyenne, our Military Appreciation BBQ on Armed Forces Day was fantastic. More than 600 veterans and service men and women, and their families came out for delicious food, games, and just some good old-fashioned fun. Our team loved volunteering, especially at the kids' area, making sure everyone had a great time.

Alaska: Supporting Veterans Through Community Action

Up in Juneau, we kicked off a new partnership with American Legion Auke Bay Post 25. Together, we placed American flags at veterans' gravesites and donated over 410 crosses and Stars of David to ensure every veteran's grave was properly honored. At the Post 25 ceremony, we were thrilled to present a $1,500 donation to help local veterans.

In Anchorage, we hosted our 4th Annual Headstone Cleanup with the American Legion Jack Henry Post 1. Volunteers, including military personnel from Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, helped clean gravesites and placed coins as tokens of respect. Over the years, we've honored more than 2,000 veterans, making sure they are never forgotten.

We wrapped up Memorial Day weekend in Anchorage with our 7th Annual Military Appreciation BBQ. Veterans and their families enjoyed great food, live music, and heartfelt speeches from community leaders. We were proud to make donations towards the new playground at the American Legion and to the Air Force Committee, doing our small part to support the community.

Everyday Heroes: Spotlight on Silvio Ayars

This Memorial Day, we also highlighted the powerful story of Silvio Ayars, our latest Nuvision Hero. After 20 years in the Air Force, Silvio now dedicates his life to helping fellow veterans through his work with Volunteers of America Northern Rockies. He focuses on moral injury and suicide prevention, reaching veterans through peer support groups, prison outreach, and the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association. Silvio’s efforts make sure no veteran has to face their struggles alone.

Why Memorial Day Means So Much to Nuvision

Memorial Day is about honoring and remembering those who gave their lives for our freedom. At Nuvision, we never forget their sacrifices, and we're inspired every day by veterans and active-duty service members who continue serving our communities with courage and commitment. It’s our privilege to support and recognize these heroes—not just on Memorial Day, but all year round.