Bodybuilders and the military came together to celebrate Memorial Day on Venice’s Muscle Beach in an uniquely Southern California way during the Annual Muscle Beach Classic, May 28.
This year’s military tribute kicked off with a C-17 flyover and the presentation of the colors by an Air Force Honor Guard from Edwards Air Force Base, Calif., who shared the stage with a number of bodybuilders.
Brig. Gen. Roger Teague, Space and Missile Systems Center vice commander, was the featured speaker during the ceremony. Four surviving members of the Tuskegee Airmen’s Red Tail Squadron were honored by State Senator Ted Lieu, State Assemblywoman Betsy Butler and Los Angeles City Councilman Bill Rosendahl. Each elected official presented the airmen with a proclamation citing their valor and military contributions.
During his speech, the general thanked the Tuskegee Airmen for fighting so valiantly during World War II. After speaking about Memorial Day, the general mentioned that 59 airmen from Los Angeles AFB were currently deployed in harm’s way.
“I’d like to charge you with keeping those airmen, as well as soldiers, sailors, Marines, and coast guardsmen who are deployed all over the world, some in very dangerous places, in your hearts and minds today, ” said Teague.
Following the military tribute, three finalists representing the Army, Navy and Marines battled for the Armed Forces bodybuilder title. A sailor took the overall title and was presented the Armed Forces Cup by Brig. Gen. Teague.
Brig. Gen. Roger Teague, Space and Missile Systems Center vice commander, shakes hands with Tuskegee Airman Ted Lumpkin. Four surviving members of the Tuskegee Airmen’s Red Tail Squadron were honored during the Muscle Beach Classic, May 28.
A C-17 from March Air Reserve Bases flies over Venice Beach during the Muscle Beach Classic, May 28.
An Honor Guard from Edwards AFB, Cailf., presents the colors during the Muscle Beach Classic, May 28.
Brig. Gen. Roger Teague, Space and Missile Systems Center vice commander, presents the Armed Forces Cup to the winner of the military category during the Muscle Beach Classic, May 28.
