Raymond G. Harvey headstone at Arlington National Cemetery: Section 6 Site 8360-B-LH (Photo – arlingtoncemetery.mil)
On December 2nd, the Pasadena Parks and Recreation Commission will review a proposal to install a memorial plaque at Victory Park honoring Raymond G. Harvey, a highly decorated U.S. Army veteran.
By News Desk
The plaque, which will be fully funded by William Paparian, former Mayor of Pasadena and member of the Veterans Day Committee, will cover all associated costs. The Department of Parks, Recreation, and Community Services has recommended Commission approval.
Raymond G. Harvey’s Heroic Legacy
Raymond G. Harvey, a Chickasaw Indian and Pasadena native, is one of the most decorated soldiers in U.S. Army history. He served from 1939, participating in both World War II and the Korean War. In Korea, while leading Company C of the 7th Infantry Division, Harvey earned the Medal of Honor for his extraordinary courage in leading a daring assault against enemy positions, despite being wounded multiple times. His bravery also earned him the Distinguished Service Cross, three Silver Stars, three Bronze Stars, three Purple Hearts, and the French Croix de Guerre with Palm.
After his service, Harvey returned to Pasadena, where he became a respected member of the community. The proposed memorial plaque would honor his heroism and lasting impact on both the military and the Pasadena community.
The Proposal and City Review Process
The proposal, submitted in November 2025 by William Paparian, calls for the installation of a plaque at Victory Park to commemorate Harvey’s heroism. Under the City’s Public Monument Policy, this request is categorized as “less than Citywide significant,” meaning it is a small-scale memorial that can be approved by the Recreation and Parks Commission.
Evaluation criteria include:
- Appropriateness: The plaque honors an individual whose contributions to both the military and the Pasadena community are significant.
- Compatibility: The memorial will complement the park environment without disrupting its use.
- Aesthetics: The plaque’s design will meet high aesthetic standards and align with the park’s character.
- Safety and Maintenance: The plaque will be safely installed, with Paparian covering all maintenance costs, ensuring no financial burden on the city.
Fiscal Impact
There will be no cost to the City of Pasadena. William Paparian has pledged to fund all expenses related to the plaque’s fabrication, installation, and ongoing maintenance.
Medal of Honor recipient LTC Raymond Harvey (Photo – Public Domain)
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