Memorial Day Veteran Ceremony
By: Nora Hartfeil
Updated: May 28, 2012
Packed in closely around the flag stood men and women
who have served the United States, all there to be honored by the Abilene community.
Veteran Phillip Hambrick served in the Vietnam War and explains why this service is so important to him, "Don't let the memories of these veterans fade away. Be here constantly, when possible, honoring them. That's my wish".
From the aircraft flyovers to the rifle salute, there was no doubt this service touched the hearts of many. Bob Mehaffey, veteran, directed the program,"It's a time when we, as active duty or retired military, look at our friends who have gone on before us, and remember those we served with".
People of all ages roamed the cemetery in a silent respect. Hambrick discusses what his veteran father would have thought about today's events, "If they would have been here today to see these veterans, and especially these World War II veterans--the same people from their era--they would have been thrilled".
All branches of the armed services from different wars were represented and acknowledged. But today, six World War II veterans were honored on their special day.
Following the ceremony, the Texas State Veterans Cemetery put on a lunch reception.
Veteran Phillip Hambrick served in the Vietnam War and explains why this service is so important to him, "Don't let the memories of these veterans fade away. Be here constantly, when possible, honoring them. That's my wish".
From the aircraft flyovers to the rifle salute, there was no doubt this service touched the hearts of many. Bob Mehaffey, veteran, directed the program,"It's a time when we, as active duty or retired military, look at our friends who have gone on before us, and remember those we served with".
People of all ages roamed the cemetery in a silent respect. Hambrick discusses what his veteran father would have thought about today's events, "If they would have been here today to see these veterans, and especially these World War II veterans--the same people from their era--they would have been thrilled".
All branches of the armed services from different wars were represented and acknowledged. But today, six World War II veterans were honored on their special day.
Following the ceremony, the Texas State Veterans Cemetery put on a lunch reception.
