A solemn and powerful Veterans Day ceremony was held at the Texas Panhandle War Memorial in Amarillo, gathering veterans, families, and community members in a show of gratitude and respect. Retired Sergeant Major Billy Garcia, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, served as the guest speaker, celebrating the service and sacrifices of Amarillo’s veterans, many of whom have faced challenges well beyond their years in uniform.
“To speak at this event is a deeply humbling honor,” Garcia said in an interview after the ceremony. “Being able to give back and say thank you to our veterans and their families is my way of recognizing the sacrifices they’ve made for all of us. It’s not just about honoring the veterans; it’s about thanking the families who supported them and allowed those sacrifices.”
The ceremony brought together attendees of all ages and backgrounds, reflecting the community’s strong ties to its veterans. Carl Williams, a World War II veteran and former POW from the Korean War, was recognized as the oldest veteran in attendance. Garcia took special note of Williams, describing him as a “symbol of resilience and courage,” whose experience exemplifies the legacy that veterans carry.