ODESSA, Texas – The University of Texas Permian Basin marked Veterans Day with its traditional ceremony, gathering veterans, families, and community members to honor those who have served the nation. The event, held on the university’s campus, underscored the deep respect Odessa residents have for military service.
Personal Reflections Highlight the Day’s Meaning
Jacqui, Vice President of External Relations at UT Permian Basin, shared a heartfelt reason for the ceremony’s significance. “My own dad served in the Air Force in Vietnam, and when he returned to his hometown of Odessa he didn’t wear his uniform because many across the country disapproved of the war,” she said. “He didn’t receive a ticker‑tape parade or public cheers, and that experience makes it all the more important for us to show appreciation now.”
Veteran Jesse Porras, who attended the ceremony, praised the region’s collective effort to recognize service members. “Here in the Permian Basin we’re happy, because this morning there was an event at Odessa College, another at UTPB, and other events across the area. Odessa is remembering veterans in many ways,” he said.
Community Support Extends Beyond the Ceremony
The university’s Veteran Affairs office prepared holiday cards for service members, inviting signatures and messages of encouragement. These cards will be mailed to active‑duty personnel throughout the holiday season, reinforcing the community’s ongoing gratitude.
Local businesses and organizations also participated, offering refreshments and displaying patriotic displays. The collaborative atmosphere reflected Odessa’s tradition of supporting families and honoring the sacrifices made by military members.
Why the Event Matters to Odessa Families
For many families in the Permian Basin, Veterans Day is more than a formal observance; it is a reminder of the values that bind the community—faith, family, and liberty. The ceremony provides a space for parents to teach children about the importance of service, and for churches to join in prayerful thanks.
“We want our children to understand the cost of freedom and the role of faith in guiding our nation,” said a local pastor who attended the ceremony. “Celebrating our veterans aligns with our Christian heritage and the Constitution’s protection of liberty.”
Looking Ahead
UT Permian Basin plans to continue the tradition, expanding outreach to more veterans and their families each year. Organizers hope the ceremony will inspire additional community initiatives, such as mentorship programs and employment assistance for veterans returning to civilian life.
The event stands as a testament to Odessa’s commitment to honoring those who have defended the country, reinforcing the shared values that make the Permian Basin a strong, faith‑centered community.
Original reporting: CBS7 / First Alert 7 KOSA (Gray) — read the source article.
