Thirteen years ago, Jerry Farmer had an idea. He wanted to create something meaningful—an event that would both recognize and honor local veterans. That idea evolved into “Salute to the Vets.”
The very first gathering was held in the parking lot of the Breaktime Bar in Goleta. Jerry rounded up vintage military equipment, including a Huey helicopter, and drew a crowd that far exceeded expectations. The response confirmed what he already knew: there was a deep hunger in our community to show support for those who served.
After that first success, I suggested Jerry consider forming a nonprofit to help with fundraising. He jumped at the opportunity, and the Santa Barbara County Veterans Foundation (SBCVF) was born, with Jerry as president.
For the next decade, Salute to the Vets made its home at the Santa Barbara Carriage Museum, eventually joining forces with the Santa Barbara Veterans Parade. Attendance grew so large that parking became a challenge—not a bad problem to have. During those years, thousands of dollars were raised to benefit local groups, including the 42MM Veterans Group, American Veterans United, Santa Ynez Valley Community Outreach–Veterans Center, Welcome Home Military Heroes, AmVets, and Healing Heroes Through Horsemanship.
From the beginning, Jerry and I agreed the Foundation should remain lean, local, and community-focused. No one involved has ever taken a salary, and beyond basic event expenses, every dollar raised goes directly to veterans or organizations that serve them.
Like many events, the Salute to the Vets went quiet during the COVID-19 pandemic. By then, I had relocated to Santa Ynez, and Jerry and I decided it was time to shift the celebration north as well. In 2022, the event was relaunched at the Maverick Saloon with a parade through town. It was warmly received, but after two years, we felt something was missing.
In November 2024, Salute to the Vets moved to Solvang Park, and there, we knew we had found our permanent home. The central location exposed the event to a broader audience, including locals, families, and visitors alike. The energy was electric, and Solvang embraced the event as its own.
The SBCVF is about more than fundraising. At its heart, it is about recognition—keeping alive the stories of those who served, reminding us of the sacrifices made, and ensuring that veterans remain visible in our daily lives. Many endured injuries, PTSD, or paid the ultimate price so that we can enjoy our freedoms.
It is our duty—and our privilege—to honor them.
Learn more or donate at santabarbaracountyveteransfoundation.org/donate.