Local officials joined Gov. /*Arnold Schwarzenegger*/ in honoring those who have served in the military and helped celebrate the construction of a center that can house nearly 400 veterans.
"Their sacrifice is what gave me and millions and millions of immigrants the opportunity to come to this country and experience freedom," Schwarzenegger said.
The new veterans home just north of Wilshire Boulevard includes residential care for the elderly and a skilled nursing facility with an /*Alzheimer's*/ disease and dementia care unit.
The CDVA says the new facility will provide veterans with a home-like environment and a sense of community.
"When they come back they should get that gold card and everything should be taken care of," Councilman /*Bill Rosendahl*/ said. "No hassle, no bureaucracy, no games to play. Take care of our veterans."
Construction on the $253 million project began three years ago and was paid for in partnership with the /*U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs*/.
After today's ceremony, veterans had the chance to tour the new home and exchange stories with fellow war vets. They will be able to move in to the new long-term care facility this fall.
