COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: Dennis Smitherman, Interim Director of Recreation and Parks
DATE: January 20, 2026
SUBJECT: Winter 2026 Class of Hometown Heroes
The City Council will receive a presentation of the Winter 2026 Class of Hometown Heroes.
BACKGROUND:
Hometown Heroes Program
The Santa Maria Hometown Heroes Military Banner Program is a collaborative effort between the Santa Maria American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #2521, and the City of Santa Maria Recreation and Parks Department. The program has returned to its original focus of honoring active -duty military members and veterans of the United States Armed Forces.
This renewed focus reaffirms the program’s mission to recognize the bravery, dedication, and sacrifice of individuals who have served, or are currently serving, our nation.
DISCUSSION:
Winter 2026 Hometown Heroes Class
As part of the Hometown Heroes Program, banners featuring the Winter 2026 Class of Honorees will be displayed for a six-month period along South College Road in the Bradley Square area. Each honoree, or their family or sponsor, will also receive a City Council “Certificate of Acknowledgment and Appreciation” in recognition of their service.
Honorees:
Gregory H. Kurokawa (Navy)
Lauren Guy Payne (Navy)
Vincent Deparini (Navy)
Harry Masatani (Army)
Jess Verdin (Army)
Rebekah Jeanne May (Coast Guard)
COMMUNITY IMPACT
The Hometown Heroes Program serves as a visible and meaningful tribute to the men and women who have served in the United States military. Displaying banners throughout the community fosters civic pride, gratitude, and a greater awareness of the sacrifices made by service members and their families.
2 Through public recognition of these honorees, the City of Santa Maria strengthens its connection to local military history and reminds citizens of the ongoing commitment of those who have dedicated themselves to the service of both our nation and our community.