Austin, TX – Texas Governor Greg Abbott and First Lady Cecilia Abbott joined hands with the community to pay tribute to the state’s veterans at the Wreaths Across America ceremony held at the Texas State Cemetery on Saturday. Governor Abbott, who was participating for the fifth consecutive year, laid wreaths to honor the ultimate sacrifices made by servicemen and women, reported on the official site of the Texas Governor.
“Today, we gather to honor those who served our country to ensure the freedoms we enjoy each and every day,” Governor Abbott said during the event and he didn’t stop there, sharing a personal connection to the military through his brother Bud, a retired U.S. Navy Commander, Governor Abbott emphasized the uncommon courage and selflessness of America’s armed forces saying, "My brother, Bud, is a retired Commander in the U.S. Navy, where he served for 20 years. I'm proud of his service to our country and the service of so many brave men and women like him."
Abbott's sentiments were echoed at the somber yet celebrative ceremony, which also recognized young Remmer Machamer, a 12-year-old from Cedar Park for his fundraising achievements benefitting Wreaths Across America. Over six years, Machamer has impressively raised more than $75,000 for the cause, with his proactive approach taking him from door-to-door gatherings to engaging in community fundraisers and speaking engagements.
The gesture of laying wreaths, a symbol to remember fallen heroes, unites communities and veterans, families and strangers – it tells a tale of gratitude and remembrance, with Wreaths Across America chair Missy Roberts and members Texas State Cemetery Committee chairman Tom Sellers, Jim Bayless, and Carolyn Hodges standing in solidarity with the First Couple to honor those who have served.
