The City of Pasadena will pay tribute to one of its most decorated military residents, Lt. Colonel Raymond G. Harvey, during its annual Veterans Day Ceremony on Tuesday, Nov. 11, at City Hall. The event begins at 10:30 a.m. and will feature a keynote address, military exhibits, and a commemorative flyover.
Harvey, a citizen of the Chickasaw Nation and Pasadena resident before and after his military service, earned the Medal of Honor for extraordinary heroism during the Korean War. His legacy will be spotlighted alongside broader celebrations marking the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army, Navy, and Marine Corps.
The ceremony will include remarks from Associate Justice Eileen Moore, a Vietnam War combat nurse, and a flyover by the Condor Squadron at 11:11 a.m. Attendees can enjoy complimentary hot dogs served by Pasadena Fire Fighters Local 809 and explore exhibits hosted by the Martin Severance Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, the U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps, and American Legion Posts 13 and 280.
A Legacy of Valor
The honor comes in recognition of Harvey’s remarkable service record and ultimate sacrifice for his country.
Harvey’s military career spanned World War II and the Korean War. He served with the 79th Infantry Division in campaigns across northern France and Germany, and later led Company C of the 17th Infantry Regiment, 7th Infantry Division in Korea.
On March 9, 1951, near Taemi-Dong, Harvey charged multiple enemy machine gun nests under heavy fire, sustaining wounds but refusing evacuation until his unit secured Hill 1232. His valor earned him the Medal of Honor, presented by President Harry S. Truman.
Harvey also received the Distinguished Service Cross, three Silver Stars, three Bronze Stars, three Purple Hearts, and the French Croix de Guerre with Palm.
From Oklahoma to Pasadena
Born in Ford City, Pennsylvania, in 1920 and raised in Sulphur, Oklahoma, Harvey enlisted in the Army in 1939 while living in Pasadena. He returned to the city after his service, becoming a fixture in its veteran community until his death in 1996. He is buried at Arlington National Cemetery and was posthumously inducted into the Oklahoma Military Hall of Fame in 2010.
The Rose Bowl Stadium, Pasadena Management Association, Vietnam Veterans of America, and the American Legion support Pasadena’s Veterans Day Ceremony.
City officials encourage residents to attend and reflect on Harvey’s legacy and the sacrifices of all who have served.
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