On Memorial Day, Aggies Remember

May 27, 2016

Howdy, Ags!

On April 21, I had the incredibly humbling privilege of joining the officers of the National Capital A&M Club in placing a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery. I can think of only a few times in my life when I’ve felt the nervousness I felt that day as I watched the precision and respect displayed by the sentinels during the Changing of the Guard and reflected on the words carved in marble–“Here rests in honored glory an American soldier known but to God.” As I moved forward in silence with a lump in my throat to gratefully place a wreath at this sacred site I could feel my heart racing and fought back tears. I was overcome with many emotions – chief among them, pride and gratitude.

The time spent that April morning on these hallowed grounds was both sobering and inspiring. In that moment, I was reverently reminded of the more than 1.3 million Americans–including more than 1,100 Aggies–who have died in service to our nation. In that same moment, I also took great inspiration that so many willingly made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation and for Americans like you and me. As I surveyed the meticulously maintained and peaceful resting place of more than 400,000 American servicemen and women, I was overcome with pride for our country and grateful for the privilege of representing Texas Aggies and my family, especially my father who served in World War II, at this revered site in a simple, but sincere act of remembrance.

Because of this experience, Memorial Day will take on a special significance for me this year. I hope you will join me, as well as the Board of Directors and staff of The Association of Former Students, in finding a way to remember and honor those who have given the last full measure of devotion for our nation. Whether through a moment of silence, flying the stars and stripes, a prayer for those left behind, a visit to monuments or memorials or joining with others in Memorial Day observances in your community, please take a moment to remember the significance of the day. In doing so, you will boldly demonstrate our core value of respect.

Excellence, integrity, leadership, loyalty, respect and selfless service. These are our Texas A&M core values, and they are also values that echo across the rolling hills of Arlington National Cemetery. Our university and military service and sacrifice are eternally linked and we respectfully remember those who have died in service to our great nation.

Respectfully,

Porter S. Garner III '79

President and CEO