Texas Land Commissioner Dr. Dawn Buckingham is calling on residents to honor veterans across the state this November, with multiple Veterans Day ceremonies planned at Texas State Veterans Homes and a special birthday campaign for a World War II hero turning 100.
The Veterans Land Board (VLB) has organized public ceremonies at seven locations throughout Texas on Veterans Day, each featuring unique tributes to those who served. No RSVP is required for the events, which are designed to bring communities together in recognition of military service.
Veterans Day Events Across Texas
From Fort Worth to McAllen, ceremonies will begin at various times on November 11, 2025. The Tuskegee Airmen Veterans Home in Fort Worth will feature a standout attraction — a P-51C Mustang replica aircraft, the same model flown by the famed Black aviators during World War II. The Fort Worth ceremony begins at 11:00 a.m., coinciding with the traditional observance time marking the armistice that ended World War I.
Similar ceremonies are scheduled in Bonham (11:00 a.m.), Big Spring (10:30 a.m.), McAllen (10:00 a.m.), and Temple (10:00 a.m.), offering Texans across the state opportunities to participate regardless of their location.
“This year’s theme is ‘Service to our Nation,'” reads promotional material for the Cisco College ceremony on November 6, which will be led by master of ceremonies 1st Lt. Cleveland Whitehead with Retired Colonel Gary Webb as featured speaker. “It reflects the dedication and sacrifice of all those who have served in the United States Armed Forces.”
100 Cards for a 100th Birthday
Beyond the ceremonies, Commissioner Buckingham has initiated a heartwarming campaign for Air Force veteran Gabriel Malafronte, who will celebrate his 100th birthday on November 10 — just one day before Veterans Day. The “100 for 100” program aims to collect at least 100 birthday cards for the centenarian.
Malafronte’s service record exemplifies the Greatest Generation’s sacrifice. During World War II, he flew in 15 missions over Germany, risking his life in the European theater. He now resides at the Ambrosio Guillen Texas State Veterans Home in El Paso.
Why 100 cards? The symbolic gesture matches years with tributes, though supporters hope the final count will far exceed that number. “This card campaign is part of the VLB’s 100 for 100 program. It aims to support veterans as they approach the milestone of their 100th birthday,” according to information shared by local media.
Making History While Honoring History
Dr. Buckingham, who made history herself in 2022 as Texas’ first female Land Commissioner, has prioritized veteran support among her key initiatives. Her office oversees the Veterans Land Board, which manages the state’s nine veterans homes and four veterans cemeteries.
“As Land Commissioner, Dr. Dawn Buckingham is committed to helping Texans after a disaster, supporting Texas energy, ensuring that every child in Texas receives a high-quality public education, serving Texas Veterans, and securing the border to keep our communities safe,” states her office’s description of priorities.
The dual focus on public ceremonies and personal recognition reflects a broader approach to veteran appreciation that spans from institutional acknowledgment to individual honor.
For Texans looking to participate, the Veterans Day ceremonies offer an opportunity to show gratitude in person, while the birthday card campaign provides a way to directly touch the life of someone who served decades ago but whose contribution remains relevant today.
