Several Ellis County officials, business leaders, and residents attended the Veteran’s Memorial Wall dedication at the Life School Red Oak Secondary Campus in Waxahachie on Thursday, March 22nd. The memorial wall was the vision of Waxahachie citizen and army veteran Carl Mullens and was a collaborative effort of several organizations. It was built to honor Ellis County soldiers who have paid the ultimate price in the line of duty from September 11, 2001 to the present time. Mr. and Mrs. Feliciano Ramirez cut the ribbon during the ceremony in honor of their son, Pfc. Joel Ramirez, who was killed in Afghanistan last April. His was the first name placed on the wall.
Mr. Dub Maines, a representative from Congressman Joe Barton’s office, State Representative Jim Pitts, and Waxahachie Mayor N. B. “Buck” Jordan spoke during the event. A bagpiper played as guests arrived and Pastor Scott Wilson from The Oaks Fellowship offered the invocation. Many participants made the event memorable and unique; Mr. Greg Compton served as emcee, the Honor Guard from Waxahachie Army Career Center performed the flag ceremony with precision and passion as Collin Dacey trumpeted TAPS. The quiet, respectful presence of the Patriot Guard Riders brought comfort and hope.
Life School Superintendent Brent Wilson expressed his appreciation to everyone who participated in and attended the event. He said, “It is an honor for Life School to house this memorial. It is my hope that as Life School students and Ellis County citizens visit the memorial wall, they will remember the great price that individuals and families pay to ensure the freedom we enjoy every day.”