In the early hours of Memorial Day 2025, severe weather swept through North Texas. But for the Post 21 Warriors, the mission was too important to cancel. Through unwavering commitment, heartfelt prayers and a bit of grace, the skies cleared just in time for a powerful and moving Memorial Day ceremony of honor and remembrance.
The event began with the presentation of the colors by the Post 21 Honor Guard, followed by a stirring rendition of the national anthem by Logan Reid. Veterans and patriotic partners, joined by Scouts from Troop 226, solemnly placed wreaths representing each of the six military branches before the stage.
Post 21 member Beverly Nuber offered a heartfelt explanation of the POW/MIA table, underscoring the importance of remembering those who never returned home. A powerful moment followed as the audience witnessed the step-by-step construction of a Battlefield Cross, symbolizing those lost in action. After the Honor Guard completed the ceremonial 13 folds, the American flag was placed beside the cross - an enduring tribute to the fallen.
Missy Wilkinson, regent of the Sarah Kincaid Cook chapter of the DAR, shared the poignant history of the red poppy. Emotions ran high during “Morning Breaks on Arlington,” performed by Kayla Lucherini and Megan Nylander with guitarist Scott Meldrum, moving many to tears.
Keynote speaker Joe Hajost delivered an inspiring message honoring those who sacrificed and the families they left behind. “Memorial Day should not be a passive holiday. It’s not enough to simply place a flag or bow our heads in silence. True remembrance calls us to action, to live in a way that honors those who gave their lives."
As the haunting tones of taps echoed from trumpeters Bryan Fields and Brandon Lucherini, attendees raised “In Honor of” cards bearing names of fallen loved ones. In a final tribute, bagpiper Dan Sheppard closed the ceremony with a moving rendition of “Amazing Grace.”
Post 21 Commander Mary Garcia expressed heartfelt thanks: “We’re truly grateful to the community for coming together in a spirit of reflection and gratitude. When patriotic partners like the Blue Star Mothers, DAR, Onward Ops, RBFCU and the DFW Veterans Chamber unite, we send a powerful message to our troops, veterans and their families that their service is valued, remembered and never forgotten.”
Special thanks to Grandscape for generously hosting the event on their main stage, and to Nick Hume for providing audio/ video support.