La Feria Commemorates Veterans at 2023 Memorial Day Ceremony

Updated: June 8, 2023

Jena Mia Hernandez leads the Pledge of Allegiance. All photos were taken by Emilio Flores with LFN.

Emilio Flores
LFN

La Feria, TX — The community of La Feria came together last Monday morning to honor and pay tribute to veterans at the 2023 Memorial Day Ceremony held at the Veterans Memorial. The event, organized by the La Feria Memorial Monument Committee, served as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by servicemen and women.

Under the guidance of Master of Ceremonies, Alfonso Guillen, Jr., the ceremony commenced with introductions of all the esteemed guests who would be participating in the event. The atmosphere was filled with reverence as Angelica Baldivia led a prayer, followed by Jena Mia Hernandez leading the attendees in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance.

The La Feria Fire Department played a significant role in the ceremony by raising the American flag with utmost respect and solemnity. The flag-raising symbolized the bravery and sacrifice of the veterans being honored. The La Feria Police Department also lent its support to the event.

Mayor Olga Maldonando spoke during the ceremony, sharing the importance of Memorial Day, a day to thank those that have served; and as she put, “Gave the ultimate sacrifice,” She says laying down ones life for another is the ultimate sacrifice. “Not only did the men and woman answer the call of duty and make the ultimate sacrifice; so did our Creator.”

“We should thank them.” Maldonado says just ask we thank our Creator for our freedom, so we should thank our veterans that also helped give us freedom. “Only our Creator knows why… Why he chose them to give their lives,” Maldonado says it is our duty now to honor and remember them for what our veterans did for our freedom.

During the ceremony, Mayor Olga Maldonado was recognized for her extensive involvement with the Memorial Committee. Surprised with a certificate of appreciation, Mayor Maldonado shared with La Feria News that she joined the committee in 2014 and said she had desire to support and contribute to its noble cause. As a long-serving member of law enforcement, she emphasized the importance of community service and felt a deep-rooted connection to the cause.

The ceremony’s keynote speaker, Mr. Jose Silva from Golden Corral, delivered an inspiring speech. In a delightful surprise, Mr. Silva made a donation to the Veterans Memorial Committee of 1,000 dollars, doubling his contributions that was originally set to match whatever the committee had made. Rosalinda Taguilas, a committee member, shared with La Feria News her heartfelt gratitude and appreciation for Mr. Silva’s generous gesture on behalf of the committee.

Mr. Jose Silva with Golden Corral presents Memorial Committee with Check.

Gus Garcia delivered the national anthem. Mr. Larry Beers, the Commander of Post 439, took the stage to introduce himself and express his commitment to serving veterans and adding an appropriate and meaningful poem.

Special recognition was given to La Feria High School students Santos Hernandez and Estrella Torres for their valuable contribution as the two Taps players for the past three years. Their volunteering service to the ceremony has been and continues to be a much appreciated and honorable act towards our fallen heroes.

Students Santos Hernandez and Estrella Torres were recognized for their past three years volunteering to perform TAPS during the ceremony.

The ceremony also stood as a remembrance and honor of two committee members who have passed away, Veteran Jose I. Loya and Veteran Hector Taguilas. Their dedication and contributions to the community and the Veterans Memorial Committee were acknowledged with gratitude and respect.

The La Feria Memorial Monument Committee extended a heartfelt thank you to all the participants who played a role in making the Memorial Day Ceremony a resounding success. Their appreciation was extended to Chief David Phinney for managing the sound system and the La Feria Fire Department for their assistance with raising the flag, as well as the La Feria Police Department for their assistance in event setup and breakdown.

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