SAN ANGELO, Texas —
The American flag was raised in Fairmount Cemetery at 11:11 Monday morning in honor of service members, both past and present.
Having a ceremony begin at 11:11 might sound a little strange, but there's a reason for it. World War I officially came to an end on the 11th hour, of the 11th day, of the 11th month in 1918.
Watching the raising of the American flag can stir an array of emotions for active service members and veterans alike.
“The meaning of that flag is, we cannot take for granted. There are people who have died to get the opportunity to raise that flag to carry that flag and times to wear that flag. There is no other feeling to feel, but proud,” U.S. Air Force Col. Andres Nazario, Goodfellow Air Force Base commander, said.
For veterans, watching the American flag being raised brings back memories of old comrades.
“My friend, I was talking about had been in the Chosin Reservoir passed away some time back. And, so I think if him when I look up at the flag,” Korean War veteran, Dee Averyt, said.
San Angelo city leaders and State Rep. Drew Darby were also in attendance and spoke at the event.