Kyle residents honor veterans with ceremony, parade

Since the age of 9, Marta Lyons never forgot Michael R. Dorman and Alfredo Lopez Jr., Kyle locals and Army soldiers who died in the Vietnam War.

Now at 64 years old, and with more time on her hands, Lyons organized a Veterans Day event to memorialize Dorman and Lopez Jr. while also honoring all those who have served.

“I always had a desire to recognize these two local young boys — our fallen heroes in the Vietnam war,” Lyons said. “As Kyle grows, I don’t want their names to be forgotten. I also wanted vets to come here, meet other vets and feel welcomed. They are Kyle’s heroes.”

With a little over 20 participates, the outside event included the presenting of colors by Lehman High School ROTC; a few words from some veterans; thank you speeches from Hays CISD Board Trustee Willie Tenorio and Kyle City Council member Dex Ellison; an ‘Empty Chair Ceremony’ presented by Kyle Area Senior Zone President Larry Simone; and a rattled prize giveaway.

Peter Parcher, who served in the Canadian Armed Forces and the Texas State Guard, and Angie Chapa, a longtime resident, also helped with the organization of the event, marking Kyle’s first ‘Citizen's Rolling Veterans Parade.’

“I had 21 friends who didn’t make it back,” Parcher said. “Today, is a really hard day for me. But I’m happier than I’ve been in a lot of years.”

The car parade began near West Center Street and circled through various neighborhoods and subdivisions, specifically slowing down for at any house with a yellow ribbon or a USA flag in front.

“I’m hoping that some day, every year, we can do something to keep these two boys’ names known — along with all our veterans,” Lyons said. “This was really important to me, and I’m glad it went well for us.”