Rockwall, Texas – The J.E.R. Chilton YMCA welcomed veterans, families and community members Wednesday morning for its annual Veterans Day ceremony, a cherished local tradition that celebrates the men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces.
Patriotic program and flag‑folding
The ceremony opened with a stirring rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner” performed by the Rockwall High School Sting A Cappella. Following the anthem, Clarence Jorif led the flag‑folding presentation, explaining the meaning behind each of the flag’s 13 folds while honoring veterans from every branch and generation, as well as the families who support them.
Keynote address by David Peek
Keynote speaker David Peek, an Army veteran, Rockwall County Treasurer and founding member of the Rockwall County Veterans Memorial Foundation, shared a personal narrative of service. Rather than a broad history lesson, Peek focused on the individuals who shaped his understanding of duty, leadership, family and community.
He displayed a collection of patches representing pivotal moments, including one from his grandfather, an Army medic who served in World War II and later in Austria. Peek also recalled a formative lesson in leadership from his 1989 training at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, when a drill sergeant presented him with a patch as a token of respect.
“What an incredible honor,” Peek said of the patch, adding that it remains one of his treasured keepsakes.
Service background and family sacrifice
Peek, a West Point graduate commissioned in 1991, served on active duty until 1998 with assignments at Fort Sill, Camp Casey in South Korea and Fort Stewart, Georgia. He completed his active‑duty career as a captain and continued in the Army Reserve until 2004.
He highlighted the challenges faced by military families, recalling how he received orders for an unaccompanied assignment to Korea just one month after his wedding. Peek also honored his late mother, who worked as an Air Force civilian assisting families with survivor benefits, underscoring another form of service.
Veterans Memorial Foundation updates
Peek provided an update on the Rockwall County Veterans Memorial Foundation’s work. The foundation, in partnership with Rockwall County, has established a memorial brick garden at the county courthouse, currently featuring 272 engraved bricks that recognize veterans and service members, including those killed in action. Additional brick installations are planned for future years.
Family ties to the YMCA
Reflecting on his own upbringing, Peek recalled participating in the YMCA’s Adventure Guides program in San Antonio alongside his father. He continued the tradition with his son at the Rockwall YMCA, creating lasting family memories through camps and activities.
“You never know the impact you’re going to make on somebody,” Peek told YMCA staff, board members and volunteers.
Closing remarks
YMCA Board Chair Mitch Ownby thanked attendees and emphasized the importance of preserving the YMCA’s tradition of honoring veterans. Rockwall County Judge Frank New offered a closing prayer, expressing gratitude for those who have served and asking for continued blessings and peace for veterans and their families.
The ceremony concluded with a group photograph of veterans in front of the American flags, reinforcing the community’s shared commitment to remembrance and gratitude.
Original reporting: Blue Ribbon News (Rockwall) — read the source article.
