Memorial Day Ceremony Set at Veterans War Memorial

Two keynote speakers will highlight the 2010 Memorial Day events at the Veterans War Memorial of Texas set for May, 31, 2010.

The ceremony is set to begin at 10 am, at the memorial site, off of 29th and Galveston, east of the Mcallen Convention Center.

The two keynote speakers are Chaplain Reverend Richard Jenkins, National Chaplain of the Military Order of the Purple Heart and Chaplain and Pastor Conrad (Connie) Walker, National Chaplain Emeritus Military Order of the Purple Heart and Chaplain, International and National Emeritus, 173rd, Airborne Brigade. 

In addition to the national memorial services, the two Chaplains along with Reymundo Peña, former Bishop of the Brownsville Diocese, will dedicate a granite wall inscribed with the photos and citations of three military Chaplains awarded Congressional Medal. of Honor.  This medal is the highest award bestowed on the U.S. military for valorous actions and courageous deeds under enemy fire.  Chaplains Capadonna, Watters and Liteky were awarded M.O.H.  Chaplain Capadonna and Chaplain Watters did not survive their wounds.

Taps will be sounded by Rick Estrada of the U.S. Border Patrol, Stephen Lopez a North Edinburg High School student will sing the American Soldier.  VFW 8788’s Honor Guard will fire the 21 gun salute in honor of all U.S. Military honored in the Memorial and John John Ingram student of Academy will participate in the pledge of allegiance. 

Following the ceremony the South Texas Indian Dancers will present a ceremony of drums, music and dancing commemorating the warriors of our Nation.  A special drum/song/dance will be presented for the 3 Chaplains who have been awarded the M.O.H.  and two who have given their lives for this Nation.