TYLER, Texas — Community members honored more than 100 local veterans who have served their country with a parade Friday at the Watkins-Logan Texas State Veterans Home in Tyler.
Congressman Nathaniel Moran said Americans shouldn’t only show appreciation to veterans on Veterans Day but every day. The holiday honoring military service members is celebrated annually on Nov. 11.
"There is not enough that we can do to show how much we appreciate veterans," Moran said. "Because of their principles, because their character because their willingness to give to the neighbors, they stood up and said we're gonna make a new nation."
Veteran Michael Howk said he wants veterans to know they're not forgotten and they're appreciated for protecting the United States with courage and strength.
Fellow veteran Dickie Warren served in three branches of military in his lifetime, the Army, Navy and Air Force.
"(My) family has been serving since the American Revolution. So it really means a lot to me in that respect. I'm just thankful to be here," Warren said.
Warren said it was incredible seeing the support and appreciation from the community, especially the young children.
"The fact that the young people show up, gives us hope for the future," Warren said.
Moran said celebrating Veterans Day is a time Americans can all set aside some time to pause, reflect and say thank you.
"In this nation, liberty is going to continue to thrive because the great service and sacrifice of each one of these individuals," Moran said.