ROCKWALL, TX (November 11, 2026) – Veterans, families and community members gathered Wednesday morning at the J.E.R. Chilton YMCA at Rockwall for its annual Veterans Day ceremony, a longstanding community tradition honoring the men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces.
The ceremony featured patriotic music, a traditional flag-folding presentation, personal reflections from an Army veteran and a closing prayer, bringing generations together in recognition of military service and sacrifice.
Following welcome remarks from KC Ashmore, the Rockwall High School Sting A Cappella performed “The Star-Spangled Banner,” opening the program with a patriotic tribute.
Clarence Jorif led the flag-folding ceremony, explaining the significance of each of the American flag’s 13 folds while reflecting on military service throughout the nation’s history. The presentation recognized veterans across military branches and generations, as well as the families who have supported them.
Keynote speaker David Peek, an Army veteran, Rockwall County Treasurer and founding member of the Rockwall County Veterans Memorial Foundation, shared a personal account of military service through a collection of patches representing people and experiences that shaped his life.
Rather than recount military history, Peek focused on the individuals who influenced his understanding of service, leadership, family and community.
Among the patches was one belonging to his grandfather, an Army medic who served during World War II and was later stationed in Austria. Peek recalled his mother’s childhood experiences near Salzburg and how scenes from the film “The Sound of Music” often prompted her to share memories of that time.
Another patch represented an early lesson in leadership during Peek’s military training at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, in 1989. While shadowing drill sergeants, Peek developed a deep respect for their leadership and dedication. At the conclusion of his assignment, one of the drill sergeants removed a patch from his uniform and presented it to him.
“What an incredible honor,” Peek said. “It’s one of my treasures.”
A graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point, Peek was commissioned as a second lieutenant in 1991. He served on active duty until 1998, with assignments at Fort Sill, Camp Casey in South Korea and Fort Stewart, Georgia. He completed his active-duty service as a captain and continued serving in the Army Reserve until 2004.
Throughout his remarks, Peek emphasized the lasting influence of military mentors and the sacrifices made by service members’ families. He recalled receiving orders for an unaccompanied assignment to Korea just one month after his wedding, an experience that illustrated the personal challenges military families often face.
Peek also recognized his late mother, who worked as an Air Force civilian employee assisting families with survivor benefits following the deaths of military retirees. Her work, he explained, reflected another important dimension of service and support for military families.
In addition to sharing his military experiences, Peek provided an update on the Rockwall County Veterans Memorial Foundation’s ongoing efforts to honor local veterans. Working with Rockwall County, the foundation has helped establish a memorial brick garden at the county courthouse, which currently contains 272 engraved bricks recognizing veterans and service members, including those killed in action. Additional brick installations are planned for future years.
Peek concluded his presentation by reflecting on his family’s connection to the YMCA and the lasting impact of community involvement.
As a child growing up in San Antonio, Peek participated alongside his father in the YMCA program now known as Adventure Guides. Years later, he continued that tradition with his own son through the Rockwall YMCA, participating in activities and campouts that created lasting family memories.
“You never know the impact you’re going to make on somebody,” Peek told YMCA staff, board members and volunteers.
His closing message emphasized that service takes many forms and that the influence of those who dedicate their time to others can extend across generations.
Following the keynote address, YMCA Board Chair Mitch Ownby delivered closing remarks, thanking attendees and recognizing the importance of continuing the YMCA’s tradition of honoring veterans.
Rockwall County Judge Frank New offered the closing prayer, expressing gratitude for those who have served and asking for continued blessings and peace for veterans and their families.
The ceremony concluded with veterans gathering for a group photograph in front of the American flags.
Held annually at the J.E.R. Chilton YMCA, the Veterans Day ceremony provides an opportunity for the Rockwall community to come together in remembrance, recognize the contributions of local veterans and express appreciation for the sacrifices made by service members and their families.
By Blue Ribbon News Staff
Music, memories and gratitude mark Rockwall YMCA Veterans Day ceremony added by Sam Redig on
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