On Veterans Day, thousands in Los Angeles pay their respects

As the San Fernando Valley Veterans Day Parade passes by, 7-year-old Christian Patino offers a salute. Christian also held a sign honoring his cousin Marine Daniel R. Valencia, who served in Iraq.  (Barbara Davidson / Los Angeles Times)

Jose Nieto of Corona, front, stands with other members of the armed forces during the singing of the national anthem. The Dodgers hosted the group during batting practice on Veterans Day.  (Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times)

Christopher Miller-Root and his son Jorden,6, take a snapshot as they sit in the Dodgers’ dugout during the team’s Veterans Day batting practice. Miller-Root’s mother, Monica Root, far left, is a Blue Star mom.   (Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times)

Navy veteran Curtiss Brown joined other veterans at the Midnight Mission.  (Mark Boster / Los Angeles Times)

Homeless Navy veteran Kenneth Jones receives a pat on the shoulder from a friend during the Midnight Mission’s Veterans Day celebration.  (Mark Boster / Los Angeles Times)

Marine Corps veteran Steven Bell,49, salutes during the presentation of the colors during Veterans Day observances at the Midnight Mission.  (Mark Boster / Los Angeles Times)