Under a large, white tented pavilion, the veterans and residents of the Clyde Cosper Texas State Veterans Home, along with family, friends and staff, enjoyed a patriotic program led by three members of American Legion Post 178.

Veterans John Allen, (U.S. Army retired), Delbert Parsons, commander of Post 178, and Ron Bircher, Post 178 sergeant-at-arms, played key roles during the ceremony. Allen was the master of ceremonies, who initiated the Civil Air Patrol Texoma Composite Squadron 262 color guard’s posting of the colors and singing of the national anthem. John was also the keynote speaker. Pastor Tim Flannery, First Melissa, gave the invocation. Auxiliary Unit 178 provided poppies for all men audience members.

The Honor Roll was led by Parsons, who read the names of veterans who had passed in 2021; Bircher rang a bell after each name to honor them. A guest trumpeter sounded taps. After prayer, the colors were retired. Attendees then enjoyed snacks, refreshments and camaraderie.