Mineola’s Veterans Day Parade and Program was one for the books. The sun was shining as the parade lined up, readying to roll through town beginning at 11:11. 

Dr. Kyle Gulley served as Grand Marshal. The bands played loud, floats were adorned with flags, and veterans wore their uniforms proudly.

This year’s parade theme was “Thank You For Our Freedom.” 

Mineola VFW won first place in the float entries, Hawkins ISD won first place in band entries, and the Daughters of the American Revolution won first place in walking entries. 

After the parade, the crowd gathered around the Mineola downtown gazebo to pay tribute and honor the veterans of the area. A gentle breeze blew the American flag as the Mineola High School marching band played the National Anthem and spectators stood, with hands on their hearts, reciting the Pledge of Allegiance.

Chaplain Wayne Bare opened the ceremony with prayer and a reading of Genesis 14:14 from the Holy Bible, pointing out that Abraham was a warrior and the first veteran. Bare said God sent out an army to bring peace just as our veterans have been protectors and peacekeepers. He then prayed over and blessed all veterans and their families.

Marine Corps League Detachment 1278 Commandant and Precinct 2 Constable Kelly Smith welcomed the public on behalf of the Marine Corps League and urged citizens to thank veterans when they see them. 

“Saying thank you could mean more than any medals,” said Smith.

Smith awarded Sergeant Jenny Biesheuvel with a plaque for her many acts of service with the Mineola Marine Corps League including chairing the Veterans and Birthday Ball and organizing the Veterans Day Parade. Lynn Kitchens and Misty Hooks were presented plaques in appreciation for their selfless dedication to the Veterans Day Parade. Larry Pruitt, a meticulous and devoted man, was presented a plaque for his willingness to serve in any capacity, often behind the scenes.

Mayor Kevin White paid tribute to Gold Star families and the families of those missing in action before introducing Dr. Bill Knight, whose brother’s remains were recently returned to the U.S. after 50 years of being lost overseas.

Mayor White recognized the sacrifices of Dr. Bill Knight’s family and presented him with a gift from Rep. Cole Hefner, a flag flown over the capital in Austin, a proclamation from Sen. Bryan Hughes, and a proclamation from Rep. Lance Gooden. Dr. Knight accepted the gifts on behalf of his family but said he did very little. 

He spoke of his six brothers who served in the military and the impact their service made on his life. 

“I used to think only those that got medals were heroes, but I’ve changed my mind. Everyone who has served is a hero,” said Knight.

The winners of the Mineola High School Veterans Day essay contest were announced and read their essays. In her essay, first place winner Isabella Tresca brought attention to PTSD and other mental health conditions experienced by many members of the armed services and thanked veterans for putting the citizens of America’s well-being before their own.

“1.4 million members of the military don’t know who I am but are willing to fight for me,” she said as she closed. 

Claudia Barriga was awarded $25 for 3rd place, Sara Davis received $50 for 2nd place, and Tresca received $100 for 1st place.

Guest speaker Dr. James Ruffin recited a portion of a poem by Kipling titled “Recessional.” The repeated line “Lest we forget” stood out as Ruffin implored veterans to never forget where they came from or their experiences that brought them to where they are. 

“On Veteran’s Day, we need to remember to be an active listener,” he said. Ruffin recalls learning about leadership and courage by listening to his grandfather’s stories. Those stories, he says, are what inspired him to join the military. Ruffin also said to not hoard the knowledge acquired but to pass it on to younger generations, and to respect and thank veterans.

Mineola Middle School and High School choirs honored all veterans in the audience with songs from each service branch. Veterans stood, many singing along, as their branch’s anthem was sang.

Master of ceremonies Jake Hays read “The Bridge Builder” by Dromgoole and thanked veterans for building a bridge to the future with their service in the military.

A decorated wreath was placed on the memorial as the Mineola High School band played Taps and a missing man formation flew overhead. 

Guests were invited to a hotdog lunch at the Mineola American Legion Post and the Mineola VFW and to enjoy a free ride on the “Freedom Train” at Iron Horse Square.