Memorial Day weekend is approaching this Monday, signifying a day when Americans mourn and honor our nation's military veterans who die in service. In Houston, as there will be across the country, there will be a Memorial Day event to honor our veterans.
The Department of Veteran's Affairs has invited the public to attend the Memorial Day Ceremony at the Houston National Cemetery on Monday. The event is free to attend, and the public is welcome to come celebrate veterans, hear guest speakers, and honor those who never made it home.
Vice President of the Houston Cemetery Council Carmen Gonzalez says the events get kicked off at 9 am on Memorial Day, with a whole host of things to see.
"It is an opportunity to show our respects...it will begin with our bagpipe players playing various songs, then we will introduce different guest speakers," he says.
The event also includes a Parade of Remembrance, where people can add little pieces to honor someone, or an entire organization.
"This includes people bringing wreaths along with their flags or banners that represent their particular organization," says Gonzalez. "Most people know our guest speaker, Brigadier General E.A. "Buddy" Grantham, he is involved in the community and has been over the years."
Lawmakers from both sides of the aisle will also be in attendance, along with a whole host of other dignitaries. Seating will be provided but is limited, so you are encouraged to bring chairs and blankets, as thousands are expected to attend. They will also have drinks on site.
Gonzalez, who is a Vietnam Veteran, says they work on this event year-round, and it means the world to veterans.
"The ceremony itself touches a lot of people's hearts," Gonzalez says. "It gives them an opportunity to show their respects, and also to mourn."
The Houston National Cemetery is located at 10410 Veterans Memorial Drive, and attendees are encouraged to arrive early to ensure a good seat.
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