EAST ALDINE – As part of the annual observance of Veterans Day, the East Aldine District and a number of other sponsors presented VETFEST23 last Saturday, November 11 at the East Aldine headquarters building.
The three hour event was held outdoors and in the EAMD office building, as weather curtailed some of the planned outdoor activities.
Billed as a “Celebration Honoring Our Heroes” the event included patriotic talks by State Senator Carol Alvarado and Guest Speaker Dr. Elias Sanchez-Perez, a Vietnam War Veteran who is also the Director of the Gathering of Eagles Veterans Group.
A large number of veterans of all ages and service history turned out for the ceremonies and activities, especially including families with service members.
Sponsoring groups included the American Legion, Harris County Veterans Service Department, Harris County Public Library, Woodmen Life, BakerRipley, HoustonMediaSource, Aldine ISD, Avalos PTech High School, and Lone Star College.
Planned activities included a welcome by State Senator Carol Alvarado, the Guest Speaker’s remarks, food vendors, Patriotic Quilts display, Army vehicles, an East Aldine Veterah’s Memorial Slideshow, a huge memorial American flag display, a Wall of Honor with photos of local veterans, music, a rockwall climbing, and more. Even though weather conditions curtailed some of these events, the veterans and families enjoyed the festivities.