On Sept. 21, Holley-Riddle Post 21 of The Colony, Texas, prepared to host its annual POW/MIA Sunset Vigil on the banks of Lake Lewisville. The day began beautifully, but as is often the case in Texas the weather quickly turned. Within minutes, thunderstorm watches were issued, sirens sounded and lightning lit the horizon. “Safety was our top priority,” said Commander Mary Garcia as she monitored reports from the city fire department. “But we also didn’t want to cancel this important memorial event.” As conditions worsened, Garcia conferred with city officials and proposed an indoor venue. The community rallied together - Scouts, performers, parents, Legionnaires, guests - everyone immediately pitched in and began loading up dozens of chairs, tables and canopies, gathering up all the equipment.
Once indoors, Scout Troop 226 opened the ceremony with the Pledge of Allegiance. Mayor Richard Boyer spoke on behalf of the City, emphasizing the community’s deep respect and support for the sacrifices made by veterans and their families. The vigil included a moving POW/MIA table observance, presented as a family setting the dinner table while waiting for word of their missing loved one. A poignant moment came with the announcement that the remains of Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Storekeeper Robert Stillman Garcia - a South Texas sailor killed at Pearl Harbor - had been positively identified through DNA testing by the DPAA. After more than 80 years, Garcia is finally coming home.
Keynote speaker Chaplain Nathan Tucker, LTC, USAF, delivered a message of comfort and hope, assuring the audience that our POWs and MIAs are never forgotten so long as we carry them in our hearts. Drawing from Psalm 121, he reminded listeners of God’s unwavering protection and faithful care.
The program featured heartfelt performances: a string and flute ensemble from a local congregation of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints performed “God Be With You ‘Til We Meet Again”; pianist Grigoriy Gazaryan played a stirring nocturne by Chopin; and Alex Purser brought tears to the eyes of many with his singing of “You Raise Me Up” and “Homeward Bound.”
The ceremony concluded with the sounding of taps as everyone held up LED candles, vowing to carry the light of hope and never forget. Despite the storms, the vigil proved to be a powerful tribute - proving that with determination and community spirit, the mission to honor and remember our POWs and MIAs will always endure.