Texas Agriculture Memorial Day
Friday, December 15, 2017 | Author: Texas FFA News
On Tuesday, November 21, 2017 the Texas Department of Agriculture hosted the 2nd Annual Texas Agriculture Memorial Day at the Texas Capitol in Austin. The day is dedicated to remembering the lives and honor the sacrifices of Texas farmers and ranchers who contributed to our heritage and our economy.
In a solemn ceremony, men and women who have lost their lives or been severely injured while engaged in agricultural-related pursuits, and those who passed away due to other causes but had an active role in the agricultural community were recognized.
“This is a day of reflection but it’s also a day that strengthens and lifts up our ag family,” said Sid Miller, Texas Commissioner of Agriculture. “Today is an important reminder that for generations, Texas farmers and ranchers have given their lives to produce the food and fiber the world needs. Here at the Texas Department of Agriculture we remember their sacrifice every day and we hope that all Texas take a moment today to do the same.”
Among those honored were several young Texans who died in the Panhandle wildfires, among others. The list of honorees included: William “Billy” Meissner, Randy Bullard, Maurice Buchholz, Gladys Ann Nay, Dayton R. Crenwelge, Johnny Callan, Sydney Alyssa Wallace, Cody Crockett, John Paul Dineen IV, John Walter Ayers, Coke Hopping, Joel B. Hughes, Zelda Peveto, Frances Freeman, Gretchen Hartmann, Winnie Grace Tanner and Jeanette Hendrixson Loftis.
“At a time when fewer and fewer Texans are responsible for producing more and more food, it is vital that we pause to remember these courageous, dedicated agriculture families,” said Commissioner Miller. “We set aside days to remember our veterans and our first responders, and that is highly appropriate. Similarly, it is important that we set aside a day to remember our farmers and ranchers not only for providing the food and fiber we need, but for sustaining our agriculture heritage in Texas.”
Five members of the Texas FFA officer team attended the event to show respect and reverence to those being honored. The officers had a chance to pay their respects to the honorees and represent our organization, of which some of the honorees were past members.
Plans are underway for next year’s Texas Agriculture Memorial Day. Applications for participation are accepted year-round, and can be emailed to: txagmemorial@gmail.com.
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