Honoring Fallen Heroes: Texas Memorial Day Ceremony Shines a Light on Ultimate Sacrifice at Rio Grande Valley Cemetery

Yesterday, Texas Land Commissioner and Veterans Land Board (VLB) Chairwoman, Dr. Dawn Buckingham, delivered heartfelt remarks at the Memorial Day Ceremony held at the Rio Grande Valley State Veterans Cemetery in Mission, Texas. Dr. Buckingham, who made history as Texas’ first female Land Commissioner in 2022, paid tribute to the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of the country.

“There is no greater sacrifice than giving your life in defense of your country. As VLB Chairwoman, it is my solemn duty to honor and preserve the memories of our heroes who were killed or marked as Missing In Action while serving a grateful nation,” said Commissioner Buckingham. “Today and every day, may we remember that the price of freedom is never free and appreciate the selfless devotion of the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice to protect Americans and our way of life.”

The ceremony, which was attended by veterans, family members, and community leaders, included a “final roll call” to honor those who gave their lives in service. This tradition dates back to the Civil War and Vietnam Conflict, where soldiers were acknowledged as Missing in Action (MIA) or Killed in Action (KIA) if they did not respond to the roll call. The roll call served as a solemn reminder of the profound losses suffered by families and the nation.

The event also highlighted the long-standing tradition of illuminating the headstones of KIA and MIA servicemembers at Texas State Veterans Cemeteries, including those in Killeen, Abilene, Mission, and Corpus Christi. The illuminated headstones symbolize the reverence and respect Texans hold for those who lost their lives in battle. The cemetery grounds remain open 24 hours a day during Memorial Day weekend to allow families to visit their loved ones.

The Rio Grande Valley State Veterans Cemetery, which opened on December 4, 2006, is one of the key facilities operated by the VLB. Covering 75 acres, the cemetery has the capacity to accommodate up to 25,000 veterans and their families, with plans for expansion as needed to meet the growing demand. Texas State Veterans Cemeteries are a collaborative effort between the State of Texas and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. These cemeteries provide a range of burial benefits, including a government headstone, burial flag, and Presidential Memorial Certificate at no cost to the families.

Commissioner Buckingham’s remarks resonated deeply with all attendees, reaffirming the importance of remembering the fallen and their sacrifices. The Rio Grande Valley State Veterans Cemetery in Mission continues to be a place of reflection, honoring not just the soldiers who have passed but also the legacy they leave behind.

In closing, Dr. Buckingham emphasized the continuing commitment to Texas veterans, noting the role of the VLB in preserving the dignity of those who served. “As we gather here today, let us never forget the price of freedom. Let us stand united in honoring our fallen heroes, not just on Memorial Day, but every day,” she said.

The Texas Land Commissioner’s office remains committed to ensuring the well-being of veterans, from disaster relief to preserving veterans’ legacies. Dr. Buckingham’s leadership continues to have a profound impact on veterans’ affairs in the state, and her role as Chairwoman of the VLB ensures that Texas will always remember and honor its veterans.

For more about the Rio Grande Valley State Veterans Cemetery and other Texas State Veterans Cemeteries, please visit the Texas Veterans Land Board website.