Crowd braves rain to honor war heroes on Memorial Day

Patriotic music, speeches mark ceremony at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery

SAN ANTONIO – Rain failed to dampen the spirits Monday of hundreds of San Antonians who gathered at the Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery to pay tribute to the men and women who gave their lives fighting for America's freedom.

"It is very important that we never forget," said veteran Jose Campos. "We should not forget because we are what we are as a nation because of those people."

District Judge Michael Mery echoed Campos' feelings.

"We live in a very blessed country that was purchased at a very high price," Mery said.

The annual observance featured the presentation of the colors of each branch of the military in addition to speeches by dignitaries, which included Republican U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas.

"The men and women buried here have not simply known freedom; they have embodied it," Cruz said. "More than 30,000 Texans have lost their lives in defense of our nation. May we never forget the lives of each service member. It is their blood that has kept us free. And it is their sacrifice that calls each of us to cherish the gift of liberty.

"I am here to humbly say simply, thank you to the men and women of our nation's military who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom."

Cruz also spoke at a Memorial Day ceremony at the Kerr County War Memorial In Kerrville.

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About the Author:

Paul Venema is a courthouse reporter for KSAT with more than 25 years experience in the role.