Patrick “Fitz” Fitzhugh will be the keynote speaker at Gilbert's 19th Annual Veterans Day Ceremony from 5-7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 9, at Gilbert Regional Park, 3005 E. Queen Creek Road, Gilbert.   

A classic and custom car show will be held that day from 3:30-5:30 p.m. 

This free observance will include words of tribute by special guest speakers, musical performances by local schools and military displays suitable for all ages. 

Lawn seating will be available. Guests are encouraged to bring a blanket or a lawn chair. Food trucks will be on-site to purchase refreshments before and after the event. 

Fitzhugh is the regional site director for USAA, where he navigates the development and execution of regional strategies and supports more than 4,000 employees while forging connections with the local community.  

His diverse role spans across a multitude of responsibilities, ranging from employee engagement and community development to public relations, sponsorships, diversity equity inclusion, business continuation and crisis management.  

During his time in the U.S Air Force, he excelled as a survival evasion resistance and escape specialist from 2003 to 2007. He then dedicated his expertise to the Department of Defense, Department of the Army, and Joint Personnel Recovery Agency, becoming a subject matter expert in rescuing aircrew and soldiers in perilous situations.  

He is engaged in supporting the local community through his work as USO Arizona board chair and Phoenix Workforce board vice-chair.