Fairmount Cemetery pays tribute Published Nov. 14, 2014 By Staff Sgt. Laura R. McFarlane 17th Training Wing Public Affairs SAN ANGELO, Texas -- The Friends of Fairmount Cemetery hosted a Veterans Day ceremony paying tribute to all veterans past and present Nov. 11. The veterans laid to rest in the cemetery fought in wars throughout U.S. history to include Korea, Vietnam, the Civil War, the American Indian Wars, the Mexican War and the Battle of San Jacinto. San Angelo's All Veterans Council Honor Guard began the ceremony by presenting the colors, reciting the Pledge of Allegiance and the playing of the national anthem. Col. Kimberlee P. Joos, 17th Training Wing Commander and keynote speaker, talked about the strength of the country. "We are the greatest nation in the world, made strong by this incredible document called the Constitution of the United States," she said. "Kept strong by her citizens and backed up by the greatest military the world has ever seen." She emphasized what makes the U.S. military great. "It is the individual -- Soldier, Sailor, Marine, Coast Guardsman and Airman who make and keep our military the best in the world," Joos said. "Our veterans make our country great." Joos highlighted the difference between Memorial Day and Veterans Day. "On Veterans Day, we honor all those who simply serve and show the willingness to sacrifice their lives in defense of this great nation, whether they paid the ultimate sacrifice or were prepared to, whether they stepped forward to serve in an all-volunteer force or served honorably after being drafted," she said. After Joos' speech, State Representative Drew Darby stepped forward to thank the veterans for their sacrifices who have ensured the freedoms and rights of this country. The ceremony concluded with the Sons of Confederate Veterans firing volley shots and Chris Morgan, Fort Concho re-enactor, playing the bagpipes.
