Another beautiful ceremony hosted by the Cook-Walden
Memorial Park, the Texas Association of Vietnam Veterans (TAVV), VFW
District 28 and the Salvation Army.
Under heavy mist early in the morning, I trailered up the '53
M38A1 and headed over to Herb's place a mile away where we
loaded up his '44 GPW. From there, we drove North to the
Pflugerville location of the annual Memorial Day service. Toby
was already there unloading his '42 MB and a short time later
Rick H and his mom Mary arrived in Rick's '53 M38A1. Danny
showed up sans vehicle this year and Barry made it wearing a
period correct early WWII uniform.
After milling around a bit in the parking lot, we meandered over to the
memorial service area and staged in the same spot as last year. This year,
the park added several benches which we placed in front of us. Fred H
wasn't with us in person, but one of his collector Garands with proper
bayonet affixed was placed in the middle section of the display. Toby
provided a set of boots to round out the display. Rory and Jeff then
arrived in Rory's 1970 Unimog.
At 11:15, the ceremony began with various dignitaries. This was followed
by several laying of the wreaths, prayers, a 21 gun salute and release of a
covey of white pigeons. By now, the sun had come out and burned off any
haze that was present. At the conclusion of the ceremony, all of us hung
around to answer questions about the club and vehicles. Long about 12:30 or
so, we all headed back to the trailers, loaded up and headed home.
All in all, an excellent day to honor and thank those veterans who have
given the ultimate sacrifice for the freedoms we enjoy today.