HARKER HEIGHTS MEMORIAL DAY EVENT
The mournful trumpet sounds of taps rang out Saturday near the Harker Heights veteran’s monument, as veterans saluted and honored fallen servicemen and women. Among those attending the annual Memorial Ceremony observance hosted by the city and Harker Heights Veterans Council was Star Group-Veterans Helping Veterans. SG-VHV was honored to participate in the parade & observance ceremony for the fallen in remembrance of those who paid the ultimate sacrifice and for giving their all in support of a grateful nation. Maj. General John C. Thomson III, commander of the 1st Cavalry Division, was the guest speaker at Saturday’s observances. Maj General Thomson said Memorial Day is a day of solemn reflection and reverence to give thanks to the men and women who “paid freedom’s heavy toll.” “We all know that freedom is not free,” Thomson said. “It never has been. It never will be, because of the men and women we honor today, the gates of freedom remain open for us.”
Mayor Rob Robinson referenced a quote from Gen. George S. Patton. “We do mourn though, and we should thank God that we knew those who have fallen, or those in faint names on tombstones,” Robinson said.
Pat Christ, past president of the Military Officers Association of America, and a local veteran, welcomed guests to Saturday’s observance. Christ said Memorial Day is a time to observe those who gave the lives in support of the country — including the 58,000 Americans who gave their lives during Vietnam. Following the Harker Heights Memorial Ceremony SG-VHV Advisory Council had a chance to meet & greet citizens, veterans organizations, civic organizations, politicians to include having a photo taken Maj. John C. Thomson III, commander of the 1st Cavalry Division the guest speaker.
Star Group-Veterans Helping Veterans would like to thank the City of Harker Heights for letting us take part in such a beautiful parade and observance for Heroes.
GOD BLESS ALL OF OUR FALLEN AND GOD BLESS AMERICA.