Patriotism takes center stage in Episode 12 of “Mission Rodeo” as the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo™ reflects on its longstanding support of the military community and the traditions behind Armed Forces Appreciation Day, presented by Crown Royal.
Kimberly Lewis, chairman of the Armed Forces Appreciation Committee, and Sean Lehane, vice president and officer in charge, join the conversation to share how the Rodeo honors service members, veterans and military families.
From military displays and the swearing-in of new recruits to hosting thousands of service members and their families, Armed Forces Appreciation Day transforms the Rodeo grounds into a powerful tribute to those who serve. For Lewis, that sense of gratitude extends beyond the service members themselves.
“To watch the transition as you pull into the parking lot or walk onto the grounds and see that these massive static displays with the tanks and jeeps…and then as the day unfolds and you see all of these services, all of our troops coming in in uniform, to just continue to truly recognize and appreciate the sacrifices that the service members and their families make, it’s really special,” Lewis said.
The episode also takes listeners behind the scenes of the volunteer effort that makes the celebration possible. The Armed Forces Appreciation Committee fundraises to help provide transportation, meals, Rodeo tickets and other experiences for military guests, including families traveling from installations across the region. For Lehane, the impact can continue long after the day itself.
“The folks that come out as our guests will come back and pay it forward. These guys work so hard. It's impressive. It's you know unlike anything that I'd seen,” Lehane said.
Episode 12 offers a closer look at the spirit of service that continues to bring the community together year after year.
New episodes drop each Wednesday through the 2027 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo.
Fans can follow along on the podcast’s dedicated Instagram account, @missionrodeopodcast, and by searching “Mission Rodeo” on their preferred podcast platform.