4A
Date: June 30, 2026
To: Chair and Members of the Armed Forces Day Special Standing Committee From: Aram Chaparyan, City Manager
Robert Dunn, Police Chief
By: Jin Chun, Public Engagement Manager | [email protected] Subject: City Manager and Police – Accept/File After-Action Report on the 2026 Armed Forces Day Parade and Celebration, and Provide Direction for the 2027 Event.
Expenditure: None.
RECOMMENDATION
Recommendation of the City Manager and Chief of Police that the Armed Forces Day Special Standing Committee:
1. Accept and File the after-action updates for the 2026 Armed Forces Day Parade and Celebration; and
2. Provide direction regarding the planning, scheduling, and programming for the 2027 Armed Forces Day Parade and Celebration.
FUNDING
None required.
DISCUSSION
The 64th Annual Armed Forces Day Parade and Celebration took place from May 15–17, 2026.
This long-standing Torrance tradition continues to honor and recognize the service and sacrifice of members of all six branches of the United States Armed Forces. The City was proud to host active-duty personnel, military dignitaries, veterans, and their families as part of this community- wide tribute.
The weekend's events included a 5K run/walk (organized by the Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce with a paid registration), the Armed Forces Day Parade, and a military exhibit. Notably, both the 5K run/walk and the military exhibit were relocated to new venues this year as part of ongoing efforts to enhance event operations, improve attendee experience, and accommodate evolving logistical and security considerations.
Additionally, several invitation-only events were held for military and civic dignitaries, including a welcome reception at the Western Museum of Flight to kick off the weekend festivities as well as a post-parade banquet dinner. While a military concert was held by the Air Force Golden West Band, it was planned independently and not part of the official line up of events.
Armed Forces Day Special Standing Committee
June 30, 2026
Planning for the 2026 celebration continued despite the ongoing U.S. conflict with Iran and the associated heightened security concerns. Throughout the planning process, City staff maintained regular communication with military partners to monitor developments and assess potential impacts to event operations, security planning, and military participation. While the evolving international situation presented uncertainties leading to limited participation by the military, the City proceeded with the celebration as planned while implementing enhanced situational awareness and measures to ensure the safety and success of the event.
The Torrance Police Department will provide a presentation summarizing key aspects of the 2026 Armed Forces Day events, including the planning efforts and coordination across departments and partner agencies, estimated total costs and staffing allocations, new safety measures and logistical improvements implemented this year, and event highlights and areas of challenge, particularly regarding resource demands and public safety considerations, and operational adjustments associated with the heightened threat environment.
Staff seeks Council Committee feedback and formal direction in planning for the 2027 Armed Forces Day Celebration, including any recommended changes to the event format, scope, safety enhancements, or budget priorities.