HUNTINGTON, Texas (KTRE) – Huntington ISD’s annual Veterans Day program was held Monday for the 29th year. They had musical performances, presentations and recognition from every branch of the military.

“We realized how important this ceremony is not only to veterans but also to our students and the community,” said Huntington ISD teacher J’Nelle Short.

“There are a lot of sacrifices that hurt that I don’t think people really understand, so I think it’s really important that we honor and recognize our veterans,” said Mitchel Havard, a veteran of the ‘army.

Havard also served in the USMC; this year he retired after 20 years of service.

Their program has expanded over the years. Each year, they highlight each veteran individually, putting a face and name to the branch in which they served. This year, more than 100 people attended.

“It’s a good day when we honor so many men and women,” Short said.

Not only was it a ceremony for veterans, but the city manager also announced big news for the city. They now have the Purple Heart City designation.

“This is a way to make sure that people understand and recognize the sacrifices that these individuals, men and women, have made, as well as the sacrifices that their families have made,” said City Manager Bill Stewart.

Stewart said the designation fits the work the city is doing.

One of the requirements of the Purple Heart City designation is having a Purple Heart recipient living or deceased within the municipality. During the ceremony, six recipients stood when asked.

The designation is now visible on Huntington city limit signs.

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