By Gabriela Salazar, Tourism Events Supervisor
The custom of honoring lost loved ones by cleaning cemeteries and decorating graves is an ancient and worldwide tradition. This weekend’s Texas Weekend of Remembrance pays tribute to the men and women who paid the ultimate price for our freedom.
Free commemorative events are scheduled from Friday through Sunday at Veterans Park and Athletic Complex. We invite military members, veterans, their families, and everyone who wants to honor our fallen heroes and celebrate the freedoms granted by their sacrifice.
As part of the Memorial Day weekend, the Texas Weekend of Remembrance not only presents impactful speakers and celebratory music -- it reminds us about the everlasting cost of our freedom.
Pets and outside food and drinks aren’t allowed, but you may bring plastic water bottles and lawn chairs, and concessions will be available for purchase.
Highlights include:
- A roll call of the total count those who gave their lives in America’s major conflicts.
- Gold Star mother MaryKay Edwards will share the story of her son, William "Billy" Lawrence Edwards, who was killed in Iraq in 2007.
- A rifle salute by the Ross Volunteers and taps played by the Texas Aggie Band bugler.
- Musical performances by Shane Smith & The Saints and former Iraq combat veteran Scott Brown (USMC) in the Scooter Brown Band.
- A free breakfast and non-denominational Sunday service led by U.S. Coast Guard Chaplain Benjamin Mayhugh.
- Adult softball and youth 7v7 football tournaments.
- A 5K run/walk and 1-mile kids‘ run benefitting Brazos Valley Cares, which supports veterans having financial hardships.
- Photo opportunities with military vehicles from the Museum of the American GI and Conroe’s Army Reserve Aviation Base.
For more information, visit cstx.gov/TWR or call 979-764-3486.
Tourism Events Supervisor Gabby Salazar is in her fourth year with the City of College Station. Before joining the city, she was the night manager at Texas A&M’s Reed Arena. A product of A&M’s sports management program, Gabby earned her bachelor’s degree in 2014 and is working toward her master’s. A native of Alamo, she was also a member of the Aggies’ nationally-ranked track and cross country teams.
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