Veterans Day observances set for Tuesday in Bayamón

The Veterans Day program at the Bayamón Lions Club on Tuesday will feature a formal ceremony alongside various recognitions.

By THE STAR STAFF

The upcoming observance of Veterans Day promises to be a heartfelt occasion, honoring the countless Puerto Rican veterans who have served with distinction.

Attorney Agustín Montañez Allman of Puerto Rico’s Office of the Veterans Advocate emphasized the remarkable legacy of honor and bravery exhibited by Puerto Rican servicemen and women in various war zones and peacekeeping operations worldwide.

The commemorative events are scheduled to take place at the Bayamón Lions Club this Tuesday.

“Our veterans embody a spirit of discipline and excellence,” Montañez Allman said. “On this special day that holds great significance for all veterans, we aim to acknowledge the vital contributions they’ve made to our communities, leveraging their skills and energy for the greater good.”

The advocate also noted that Jorge Pedroza, the commander of the Vietnam Veterans of America organization on the island, will be recognized during the event. Pedroza has been a steadfast advocate for veterans in Puerto Rico, tirelessly working to secure better benefits and federal medical services, ensuring that those who have served receive the recognition they so richly deserve.

The program will feature a formal ceremony alongside various recognitions. The musical group Son Veterano, comprising veterans themselves, will perform the official anthems. Additionally, the Honor Guard of the Junior ROTC from Maria T. Cadilla de Martinez High School in Arecibo will present the colors for the important occasion.

Emotional moments are expected as flags representing soldiers who were killed in action and those classified as prisoners of war (POW-MIA) are raised. Montañez Allman, a decorated veteran of the Kuwait War, noted that Nov. 11 at 11 a.m. originally marked the end of World War I by commemorating the signing of the armistice with Germany in 1919.

Years later, after World War II, veteran Raymond Weeks from Alabama proposed that Armistice Day should honor all veterans of every conflict. The idea was endorsed by President Dwight Eisenhower, leading to the establishment of National Veterans Day.

In addition to the impressive combat records of Puerto Rican veterans, their humanitarian efforts globally deserve special mention. Montañez Allman highlighted peacekeeping initiatives such as constructing roads and water supply systems, providing medical care in underserved regions, and ensuring security in communities affected by turmoil or civil strife.

“As a veteran myself, it brings me immense pride to spotlight our people’s admiration for those who have selflessly served our country, the nation, and the world -- fulfilling their duties with honor, strength, and unwavering determination,” he said.