The Woodlands Township honors veterans with ceremony at Town Green Park

THE WOODLANDS, TX -- Military men and women were honored by a large crowd at Town Green Park in The Woodlands on Veterans Day. The ceremony included keynote speakers, a swearing-in ceremony for future soldiers, musical performances and a care package drop-off booth for soldiers abroad.

The entire presentation can be found on The Woodlands Township’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/thewoodlandstownship. A gallery of photos from the event can be found on the Township website at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/1547/Veterans-Day.

Township Vice Chairman Bruce Rieser opened the event, followed by an invocation by Township Director Jason Nelson and a performance of the National Anthem by Isabelle Encarnado.

“The foundation of today’s event stems from our community’s desire to honor, support and thank the veterans of The Woodlands Township,” Vice Chairman Rieser said. “We are truly grateful for the noble men and women who have fought to protect our freedom to enjoy this beautiful community. By recognizing Veterans Day in The Woodlands Township, our hope is to provide a proper 'welcome home' for those who have recently returned home from active duty, as well as give thanks to those who have courageously served in the past.”

U.S. Congressman Kevin Brady addressed the crowd, praising the dedication and selflessness of the U.S. military, particularly those from Texas.

The keynote speaker of the ceremony was Lt. Col. Sam Kim of the U.S. Army, who reflected on the valor of American service members.

“There is no doubt that American’s men and women sacrifice so much to ensure our freedoms,” Lt. Col. Kim said. “We owe a debt of gratitude to all who served, to all those who were wounded and those who paid the ultimate sacrifice. We are so blessed to have such strong, courageous men and women, people willing and able to stand in defense of America when any adversary decides to threaten our way of life.”

Chairwoman Liza Garza of Our Community Salutes then addressed the crowd, reminding the enlistees and veterans of the gratitude that Americans hold for their service. She presented the Challenge Coin to the enlistees after Lt. Col. Kim led the Oath of Enlistment, commemorating their promise to defend and protect the Constitution against all enemies.

Members of each branch of the military were also recognized during the playing of Salute to the Armed Forces Medley on bagpipes by Patrick Salmon.

For more information about The Woodlands Township, please call 281-210-3800 or visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.