Specialist Luke Mauk, US Army, 82nd airborne division
Veterans Day is a time to honor the men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces, defending the freedoms we enjoy every day. It is a moment to reflect on their courage, sacrifice and dedication—from those who served in times of war to those who safeguarded peace. Across the nation and here at home, communities come together to express gratitude to veterans of every generation. Their stories remind us of the strength, resilience and unity that define our country. Today and always, we thank them for their service and commitment to protecting our nation.
1st Lt. John Brooks Parker, U.S. Marine Corps, served in Vietnam. In 1968, he was wounded in action and sent to a military hospital in Japan, where he recovered. His story reflects the courage, resilience, and commitment shared by so many who served during the Vietnam War.Wallace “Wally” Snyder served in the U.S. Army during World War II and later continued his distinguished career in the U.S. Air Force, retiring as a colonel. His service spanned more than 30 years and included the World War II, Korean, and Vietnam conflicts. Throughout his career, he received numerous awards and decorations recognizing his leadership and dedication to duty. Born on Sept. 29, 1924, Snyder lived to be 101 and passed away on Oct. 29, 2025, at Kerrville Medical Center.Corporal Michael O’Dell USMC 2006-2010. Falluja and Ramadi, Iraq, deployments.Phillipi “Mountain” Sanz June 2005 to March 2016 SSgt. Sanz 0311 Rifleman United States Marine Corps 4 Deployments into combat operationsCol. R.C. “Bud” Roberts served as a U.S. Air Force fighter pilot from 1953 to 1983, including a tour in Vietnam from 1965 to 1967. During his distinguished career, he was recognized for his leadership and dedication, once receiving a South Vietnam ceremonial baton in honor of his service.Travis Lundy, son of Jim and Lori Lundy of Bandera, and Frances Lundy of Lake Jackson, enlisted in the United States Marine Corps on December 20, 2011, and served as an infantryman (MOS 0311 – 3rd Battalion, 4th Marines) from 2011 to 2015, completing a four-year active-duty term. His service emphasized ground combat operations, weapons handling, and tactical proficiency. Travis completed Boot Camp at MCRD San Diego, California, from December 2011 to March 2012 and was selected as the Company Honor Man upon graduation on March 9, 2012. This elite distinction, earned through superior performance in leadership, physical fitness (including pull-ups, push-ups, sit-ups, and the 3-mile run), rifle qualification (Expert level), academic tests on Marine Corps knowledge, and peer evaluations, is awarded to the top recruit only. As Company Honor Man, he led the company in the graduation parade and received several commendations.