Memorial Day Service at Houston VA National Cemetery
HOUSTON - A special Memorial Day Service will be held on Monday, May 30, 2011 at 9:30 a.m. at the Houston VA National Cemetery, located at 10410 Veterans Memorial Drive.
This year, the Department of Veterans Affairs is pleased to announce that retired Air Force Colonel Ann M. Testa, current federal security director, George Bush Intercontinental Airport, will give the Memorial Day address. Testa joined U.S. Customs and Border Protection in 2002 and has served in various leadership roles. Under her leadership as Acting Executive Director, Enterprise Networks and Technology Support for Customs and Border Protection?s Office of Technology, operational day-to-day technology support was provided to all Customs and Border Protection field locations. She led more than 2,300 employees and managed a budget over $410 million. Testa served in the United States Air Force for over 27 years retiring as a Colonel in 2001. In addition to earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics from MIT, she received a Master of Science degree in Human Resources Management from the State University of New York.
In addition to Testa?s remarks, the event will feature a parade of colors and wreaths by numerous local veterans? organizations, ROTC units, and Boy and Girl Scout troops. All Boy and Girl Scout organizations in southeast Texas are invited to attend.
There will also be many symbolic highlights including a flyover by the U.S. Coast Guard; a performance of Taps; a cannon salute; a riderless horse procession by the Houston Police Mounted Patrol; Amazing Grace performed by Ian Martin; and a rifle salute by the VFW District #4 Ceremonial Detail accompanied by Co. A 13th U.S. Regular Infantry with muskets. Peggy Slay, president of the Houston Gold Star Mothers will lead the pledge of allegiance with
The Memorial Day Service, honoring deceased United States servicemen and women, is free and open to the public.
Visit the Houston National Cemetery Administration Web site at http://www.cem.va.gov/CEM/cems/nchp/houston.asp for construction information. Guests who wish to visit gravesites are encouraged to arrive prior to 8 a.m. or after 1 p.m. following the Memorial Day service.
Metro Service: The 108 Veterans Memorial will provide special service to the Houston National Cemetery in honor of the national holiday. Park for FREE at the North Shepherd Park & Ride for convenient connection to the 108 Veterans Memorial. The route will run from 7 a.m. ? 1 p.m. (fares apply) on a 20 minute frequency. Additional transportation will be provided at the gate of the Cemetery to the event. For more information, contact Metro at 713-635-4000.