"The perfect human being is all human beings put together,
it is collective, it is all of us. Together that makes perfection."
---Socrates
The ceremony began at 9:00 a.m. sharp on Monday, May 29, 2023. Opening remarks were by the Mayor of Flower Mound, Derek France. Next, Posting of Colors by the Flower Mound Fire Department Honor Guard. Boy Scout Troop 295 and Girl Scout Troop 7868 led the Pledge of Allegiance. The National Anthem was sung by the professional Voices of Flower Mound. In earnest, the Opening Prayer was presented by Chaplain Russ McNamer. There were a few tears. But the flood of tears flowed naturally from man, woman, leaders, and children without control when the Flower Mound Fire Department Honor Guard played Amazing Grace with his bagpipes.
Dignitaries were introduced, followed by asking those in attendance who served to stand, followed by widows and spouses of those who served in foreign wars.
Key Note Speaker, General Gary L. North, US Air Force (retired) provided a memorable speech. The General was commissioned in 1976 as a distinguished graduate from East Carolina University's ROTC where he earned a Bachelor's Degree in Political Science. He also holds a Master of Science Degree from Golden Gate University, California.
General North held numerous operational, command and staff positions while completing five long and four short overseas tours. A command pilot, he flew over 4,700 hours in the F-4, F-16, and F15, including 83 combat missions. During his 36 years of service, he commanded at the squadron through the major command levels, culminating his career as commander, Pacific Air Forces, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii. General North retired from the Air Force in October 2012. He is currently the Vice President for customer requirements for Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Co. He resides in Aledo, Texas.
Col. Keith "Si" Simonson, US Army (retired) gave the Fallen Soldier Table Presentation. A long list of the reading of names of Fallen Soldiers were read by Chaplain Russ McNamer and for each name a Boy Scout rang the fireman's bell. In closing, Chaplain McNamer read a prayer, followed by Taps sung by the Voices of Flower Mound Choir.
On display were memorabilia loaned out by various museums, including the Civil War Museum in Fort Worth and all other wars. Included were many pamphlets and booklets for frequently asked questions about Veterans, Federal Benefits for Veterans, Dependents and Survivors, Burial Benefits for Veterans, Dependents & Survivors compiled by the Texas Veterans Commission, including information about the Military Museum of Fort Worth. Active, Veterans, & kids under 10 are free. Students and seniors $5.00. Adults, $10.00. Visit www.militarymuseumfortworth.org for more information and prices and hours that may change over time.
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