Indio community holds vigil for veteran

Friends, family and community members gathered Thursday night to honor the life of James Silva, a local veteran who passed away.

The vigil, held at Dominguez Park, served not only as a tribute to his memory but also as a call to action for mental health support for veterans.

Oscar Ortiz, Indio council member, said in a social media post that he met Silva in high school and that they were great friends.

"He had a great sense of humor. He was just a really great person," Ortiz said. "We're really going to miss him a lot."

Ortiz said it's important to bring attention to mental health services available for veterans.

"We need to do better to keep our soldiers safe," Ortiz said. "To take care of them when they do end up in trouble."

He said the family is inviting the community to Silva's viewing on Wednesday, October 16 at 6 p.m. and the services the following day at 9 a.m. followed by the burial in the Coachella Valley Cemetery at noon.

"We know how much of an impact James had in our community because of how good of a person he was," Ortiz said. "Because of how many friends he made in high school and how well he treated all of us."

For veterans seeking help, the Veterans Crisis Line is available 24/7 by dialing 1-800-273-8255 and pressing 1.