Cuero citizens sported their patriotic colors and paid reverence to fallen veterans on Memorial Day at the American Legion #3 Dinter Post.
Mayor Emil Garza, an Air Force veteran himself, spoke about the importance of the day and passing on the significance to future generations.
“As future generations advance, this day will lose significance,” he said. “Mostly because recent conflicts, fortunately, have not had the losses of previous confl icts. Time is making the great losses of previous conflicts a distant memory.”
He reviewed lives lost in armed conflicts, starting with the American Revolution and totaling 1,354,664 lives.
He also mentioned those dying from illness related to armed conflict, those exposed to harmful agents and those affected by PTSD, who took their own lives.
“We must not let the significance of this day diminish. That's all on us to keep it going. Today is the most expensive holiday in the country.” Veterans and auxiliary members show reverence for
Honoring Fallen Heroes on Page 12.
Garza suggested ways to keep the reverence of the holiday going: visit cemeteries and place flags on veterans’ graves, acknowledge and thank families whose loved ones lost their lives while defending the nation's freedoms, and respecting the United States flag, keeping it serviceable.
“And when the opportunity presents itself during parades!” he said. “How many times have you been at a parade and the flag comes by? And folks do not get up and do not give reverence to that flag.”
Garza also shared the history and some of the lyrics to “Taps,” saying he always repeats them to himself as it is played at the funeral of a vet: Day is done/ Gone the sun/ From the hills/ From the lake/ From the skies/ All is well/ Safely rest/ God is nigh.
Following the speech, wreaths were presented by the American Legion Auxiliary, Unit 3, and the Cuero VFW Auxiliary, Unit 3972.
As “Taps” was played by Butch Talbot, all stood while veterans solemnly saluted.
Past auxiliary President Brandy Garcia led the audience in singing patriotic songs, followed by a benediction by Chaplain “Pete” Agadito Guajardo.
