A solemn opening ceremony took place on November 17th at 10 a.m. at The Depot Civic and Cultural Center for the “Remembering Our Fallen” exhibit. Created by Bill and Evonne Williams of Patriotic Productions in Omaha, the exhibit is a reminder of the ultimate sacrifice made by almost 600 Texans killed in The War on Terror while wearing this country’s uniform in Afghanistan or Iraq.
The opening ceremony began with Posting of the Colors, presented by David Hefner, Vietnam Veteran, and Sophia Martinez, Iraq Veteran. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by SFC Matt Arrington, Texas National Guard, and Mason Burkett. Mason’s father, Donald Allen Wesley Burkett, gave his life in The War on Terror.
Brownwood Chamber of Commerce Director, Ray Tipton, welcomed attendees to the ceremony, giving special recognition to the Gold Star family members present.
Dallas Huston read a letter from President George W. Bush. In the letter, President Bush said, “Our citizens will never forget those who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. I thank you for remembering our sons and daughters who laid their lives on the front lines.”
Navy Chaplain Jim Looby offered a prayer for Gold Star Families. Before the prayer, Looby spoke of serving as a chaplain. “What a privilege it was. I had to make the most difficult of all calls. Going up to that front door, and having to tell that family, their son or daughter, husband or wife, was killed in the military service. A most difficult task, but it was an honor to do so. Because we will recognize them as those who heeded the call, fought for their nation, fought for you.”
The ceremony included Zak Webb, who sang The Star Spangled Banner, and also Reverend Ernest Kirk, who sang The Battle Hymn of the Republic.
Photos within the exhibit featuring a red rose show heroes lost who were directly connected to the Brownwood community. The exhibit is on loan to the Texas Funeral Directors Association.
“Remembering Our Fallen” will be on display November 17-20 in the Depot Civic and Cultural Center in Brownwood. The exhibit will be open 11 AM-7 PM on November 17 & 18, 10 AM – 5 PM on November 19 and 1 PM – 6 PM on November 20. There is no charge to view the display and it is open to the public.
