Kerrville Mayor Herring leads Memorial Day tribute honoring fallen veterans and families

Kerr County gathered on May 26, 2025, to honor the sacrifices of fallen service members during the annual Memorial Day Ceremony. The event, marked by heartfelt tributes and reflections, emphasized the importance of remembrance and community support for veterans and their families.

The ceremony began with a poignant acknowledgment of Gold Star families, whose loved ones made the ultimate sacrifice for freedom. The speaker expressed gratitude for their presence, highlighting the strength and enduring love they represent. Local leaders, including Mayor Joe Herring and Judge Rob Kelly, were also recognized for their commitment to supporting veterans.

A central theme of the ceremony was the weight of loss felt by many attendees. The speaker encouraged participants to reflect on their personal connections to those who served, reminding everyone that Memorial Day is not a day of celebration but a solemn occasion to honor those who gave their lives. The speaker shared personal anecdotes, emphasizing the importance of remembering not just on Memorial Day but every day, as a way to keep the memories of the fallen alive.

Mental health was a significant topic during the address, with the speaker addressing the silent struggles many veterans face after returning home. The call to action was clear: the community must support one another, reach out, and check in on those who may be struggling. This message resonated deeply, as nearly every attendee raised their hand when asked if they had lost someone in uniform or knew someone who had.

The ceremony concluded with a tribute to the 89 fallen service members from Kerr County, with U.S. Marine Corps combat veteran Ryan Haley reading their names aloud. This moment served as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made for freedom and the ongoing responsibility to honor their legacies.

As the community reflected on the day’s events, the message was clear: while Memorial Day is a time for remembrance, it is also a call to action to support one another and ensure that the sacrifices of the past are never forgotten.