NEWS RELEASE: City of Las Vegas Honors Commander Gary L. Ludi as the 2025 Fiestas de Las Vegas Grand Marshal

Gary L. Ludi is the son of Ann Marie Archuleta and the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. William Ludi Sr. He has been married to his wife, Christine Ludi, for over 50 years. Together, they have two daughters, Kimberly Ludi and Rebecca Esquibel, along with a growing family that includes 12 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.

Gary currently serves as the Commander of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 1547, a position he has held since 2007. He also serves as the District 5 Commander, overseeing posts in Mora, Raton, Clayton, and Cerro. Under his leadership, VFW Post 1547 earned All-State Team status in 2018–2019, and he was named District 5 Commander for 2022–2023 and National Aide-de-Camp for 2023–2024.

A passionate advocate for veterans and their families, Gary’s guiding philosophy is simple: Veterans are brothers and sisters. He is always ready to lend a helping hand, whether attending military rosaries and funerals or supporting community and military events. He has established strong relationships with both veteran and non-veteran organizations throughout the region and maintains open communication with local officials. He is currently spearheading a memorial project at Veterans Park to honor veterans from all battles.

Gary actively promotes patriotism and Americanism in local schools by organizing presentations and offering scholarships through the VFW's Patriot's Pen and Voice of Democracy programs.

Gary began his military career with the New Mexico National Guard in Las Vegas before transferring to the United States Army once Christine completed high school. He served with distinction for 23 years. His numerous military awards include:

·         (3) Meritorious Service Medals

·         (6) Army Commendation Medals

·         (4) Army Achievement Medals

·         Army Superior Unit Award

·         (6) Good Conduct Medals

·         National Defense Service Medal (2nd Award)

·         Southwest Asia Service Medal with (1) Bronze Service Star

·         Noncommissioned Officer’s Professional Development Ribbon with 3 Army Service Ribbons

·         (3) Overseas Service Ribbons

Gary Ludi continues to be a steadfast presence in the veteran community, embodying service, leadership, and commitment.

The City of Las Vegas proudly thanks Mr. Ludi for his lifelong dedication to his country, his fellow veterans, and his community. His unwavering patriotism, generous spirit, and tireless advocacy serve as a shining example of what it means to live a life of service. We are honored to recognize and celebrate his contributions, and we express our deepest gratitude for all he has done and continues to do for the people of Las Vegas and the United States of America. As we celebrate this Fourth of July, we are reminded that true patriotism lives in the hearts of those like Mr. Ludi, who serve with honor, pride, and unwavering commitment.

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