Memorial Day 2025

This morning Tony and I attended the Annual Williamson County Memorial Day Ceremony. Due to concerns about the weather the event was held inside the Archives building. Every folding chair was occupied, around the chairs people stood 5 or 6 deep, others remained outside because it was so crowded inside. As I looked around I saw some who came with the assistance of canes and walkers others who were only waist high. I saw gentlemen from American Legion Post 215, and men wearing caps signifying they served in Vietnam. Lots of folks were dressed in red, white and blue. It was a ceremony like much like you would expect. There was the presenting of the colors, we recognized the gold star families, the mayors spoke, there were short speeches by those who had served our country. It was a time of reverence.

There is a lot of differing views in that room about today’s politics. Some would argue about how to define the word “Liberty”. How do I know? I know my town and I see the opposing bumper stickers on the parked cars outside. There is no doubt there are strong confliting views in that room. But when the military band struck up “The Star Spangle Banner” and the crowd, spontaneously and without a leader joined in singing, a little hesitantly at first and then full throated, none of that mattered. I confess I teared up.