According to 2019 polls, only 29% of youth ages 17 to 24 can qualify for military service. So for those high school seniors brave enough to raise their right hands and join the armed forces, a national nonprofit is standing up to ensure these brave young men and women are recognized and honored for their decision to protect the nation.
The Central Texas chapter of Our Community Salutes is working with high schools from Waco to Lampasas to show those high school seniors willing to serve that the community cares for them and honors their decision, said chapter president Jean Shine.
Due to some pandemic restrictions still in place at different high schools, each school has been holding small ceremonies to offer certificates of thanks, she said. A Facebook live ceremony will be conducted on Saturday at 6 p.m. to honor all in the region who have enlisted, with an appearance by Texas Gov. Greg Abbott to offer his personal message of appreciation.