The nonprofit Prayer Angels for the Military will present its 14th annual Christmas tree- and Menorah lighting ceremony for Santa Clarita Valley-based active-duty and veteran service members at Veteran’s Historical Plaza in Newhall on Saturday, Dec. 7, at 5 p.m.

The Messick Family Singers

Themed a “Red, White & Blue Christmas,” this year’s event will feature highly decorated Navy fighter pilot Mike Garcia (pictured below) as Special Guest Speaker, plus live entertainment by The Messick Family Singers and singer-songwriter duo John & Marina Stratton.

The heartwarming annual ceremony will honor SCV’s military service members, past and present.

Hot cocoa, coffee and holiday treats will be provided, as SCV residents gather to hear a few words, pray for our military, enjoy Christmas songs and carols and the lighting of the Military Honor Christmas Tree and Hanukkah Menorah.

Prayer Angels for the Military hosts the annual event, held on the first Saturday of December, with the able assistance of members of the SCV Young Marines and other local veterans groups.

Photos of SCV military service members past and present will be laminated and displayed on stars.

Photos on Blue Stars represent active-duty service members, some of whom are deployed and away from their families during the holidays.

Photos of SCV veterans are on white stars and angels.

The Gold Stars, sadly, represent a local family member who died in service to our country. As part of the lighting ceremony, the SCV Young Marines will place a wreath to honor the Santa Clarita Valley’s fallen heroes.

The Christmas tree and Menorah will be lit every night through New Year’s Day.

Veterans Historical Plaza is located at 24275 Walnut Street, Newhall 91321. Be sure to dress warmly for this wonderful outdoor celebration.

For more information, contact Suzon at 661-799-8865 or PrayerAngelsForTheMilitary@yahoo.com.

Marina and John Stratton, SCV singer-songwriters