SAN ANGELO, Texas — A veterans commemorative ceremony was held Thursday morning in Fairmount Cemetery to honor military veterans who served the United States.
Each year, Americans honor veterans, those who throughout their lifetime served in the military. Initially, Veterans Day was called “Armistice Day”, celebrating the end of World War I, on the 11th hour of Nov. 11.
“I think it's so important that we in San Angelo continue to celebrate all things military and of course today is a great day of remembrance for all those who chose to give their life, their service asking nothing in return,” San Angelo Mayor Brenda Gunter said.
Col. Matthew R. Reilman, 17th Training Wing, Goodfellow Air Force Base Commander, delivered a celebratory speech honoring veterans from all wars, both dead and alive. Reilman mentioned the importance of remembering the fallen and thanking veterans and their families for their service.
“It touches me deeply because I have a long family history of service, so to see that warm embrace from the local community and what it means to all of their service members and their families it really makes San Angelo a destination of choice for all of our service members,” Reilman said.
Families of those who have served the United States were present during the ceremony. Martha Visney has been part of the planning of the annual veterans commemorative ceremony at Fairmount for 10 years.
“My husband was in the military for six years and five years ago he passed… more or less he gave his life for this country he was very proud to serve the United States of America,” Visney said.
Veterans Day continues to honor the sacrifices, patriotism and devotion of the nation's servicemen and women.
