El Cajon has opened nominations for its 2026 Veteran of the Year Award, an annual recognition for local veterans who continue serving the community after military service, according to East County Magazine.

Nominees must have received an honorable discharge from the U.S. military or National Guard. They must also be El Cajon residents or active members of a 501(c)(19) veterans organization located in El Cajon, and they must have made significant contributions to the community since their service.

Nominations will be accepted from Sept. 1 through Oct. 16. A complete packet must include an application, a redacted copy of the nominee's DD-214 or NGB-22, a summary of accomplishments and two photographs.

The El Cajon Veterans Coalition will review submissions, and the selected honoree is expected to be announced Oct. 30. The award will be presented at the Veterans Day Celebration hosted by American Legion Post 303, with additional recognition planned at a city event or council meeting.

East County communities, including Santee, share many of the same veteran networks and service organizations, making the nomination window relevant for families and groups across the area. Source: East County Magazine.