Los Angeles, California – The 6th Street Bridge has become a vibrant gathering spot in Los Angeles, drawing street racers, social media influencers, and sailors alike since its reopening two years ago. This Memorial Day, the bridge transformed into the venue for a public Fleet Week event, welcoming 500 sailors from the USS Carl Vinson, a nuclear-powered ship docked in San Diego. The event featured performances by a Marine Corps band, speeches from local officials, and a touching moment of silence to honor those who lost their lives in service.
The youngest sailors, many in their late teens or early 20s, enjoyed the sunny day on the bridge, exploring the food trucks and even taking a moment to appreciate the unique architecture of the landmark. For some of them, it was their first trip to Los Angeles, where they engaged in various activities, such as exploring Little Tokyo and visiting a Korean spa.
Despite the intimate crowd, the sailors had the opportunity to interact with locals and immerse themselves in the community. However, the bridge has had its share of challenges since reopening, with incidents involving drag racers and copper wire thefts in the area. Nevertheless, it continues to host various events, showcasing its importance as a renewed icon in the city.
Deputy Commander Richard Meyer of the Navy’s 3rd Fleet highlighted the bridge’s significance, emphasizing its role in connecting trade routes similar to the ocean, which the Navy works to protect. As the USS Carl Vinson prepared to depart from the Port of Los Angeles, attendees expressed mixed feelings about the event’s turnout, with some wishing for a larger audience to commemorate Memorial Day.
Among the attendees were longtime friends who reside in a nearby retirement community and frequent the bridge for their evening strolls. They reminisced about past celebrations on the bridge and expressed disappointment over the recent lack of nighttime illumination. Despite the challenges, the community members found solace in coming together to honor the nation’s fallen heroes in a place they affectionately referred to as “our bridge.”