We’ve learned because of the government shutdown, many events have either been canceled or almost didn’t happen for various reasons.
We’ve learned because of the government shutdown, many events have either been canceled or almost didn’t happen for various reasons.
A spokesperson from Representative Tony Gonzales’ office told us, that a lack of funding almost led to the cancellation of the annual Veterans Day ceremony.
The event will go on as planned later Tuesday morning.
We’re told by federal officials, because of the government shutdown, service members and Department of War personnel are not even allowed to participate in official outreach activities. They can participate in a personal capacity, however.
As a result, for the first time in 55 years, the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce canceled part of their annual Veterans Day event. We spoke to the Vice President of Military Affairs about the changes this year.
“When we celebrate, we want our military members and their families and our federal civilians to be able to take part in it with a clear head, with a time that they feel like they can celebrate,” said Tim Farrell/Vice President, Military Affairs, Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce. “So that’s why we made this decision.”
Another big event that was almost impacted is the Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery’s Veterans Day ceremony.
We’re told funding for that event was also unavailable because of the government shutdown.
However, Representative Tony Gonzales, who has a personal tie to the cemetery, and saved it from being canceled completely by the VA in the past, stepped in once again to make sure the ceremony still happens Tuesday morning.
In a statement he wrote –
“It is also a deeply personal event for me, seeing as my grandfather, a World War II veteran, is buried there. His service was my inspiration to enlist in the Navy, and like so many other military families in San Antonio, we consider the Veterans Day ceremony at Fort Sam as our opportunity to reflect and pay gratitude to all those who served before us.”
This Veterans Day ceremony will be happening here at the Ft. Sam Houston National Cemetery at 9 a.m.