Each year the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo™ invites hundreds of military service men and women to the Rodeo for a day of honoring their sacrifice for our country.
NRG Park filled with military recruits, active service members and veterans on March 4 in celebration of Armed Forces Appreciation Day, presented by BHP.
Wednesday evening, the Armed Forces Appreciation Day Committee held the Red, White and Blue Salute to the Military on The Junction Stage.
The ceremony started with a performance by the Marine Brass Band. The band performed a variety of songs including the national anthem and “God Bless America.”
Throughout the ceremony there were many speakers including Rodeo President Joel Cowley, Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner and Harris County Judge Linda Hidalgo. Turner issued a proclamation declaring March 4, 2020 to be Armed Forces Appreciation Day in Houston.
Armed Forces Appreciation Day Committee Chair Annie Flores said this day is centered around the committee’s mission to honor the men and women in uniform.
To complete the ceremony New recruits to the U.S. Army and U.S. Marine Corps were sworn in to complete the ceremony, and active-duty serviceman Josiah Kirkland said he was excited to see the large amount of people at the ceremony who have not served in the military.
“Armed Forces Appreciation Day is important because it’s increasing the awareness for people in the military,” Kirkland said.
The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo promotes agriculture by hosting an annual, family-friendly experience that educates and entertains the public, supports Texas youth, showcases Western heritage and provides year-round educational support within the community. Since its beginning in 1932, the Rodeo has committed more than $500 million to the youth of Texas. For more information, visit rodeohouston.com and connect with RODEOHOUSTON online via Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube for all the latest news. The 2020 Rodeo is scheduled for March 3 – 22.