Saturday, I was asked to join the Broadway Square Mall in Tyler to honor the men and women of our armed forces for Armed Forces Day.

My dad served in the Air Force, stationed in Del Rio. That was a goal of mine to join the Air Force and serve our great country. Becoming an insulin dependent diabetic at 14 killed that dream, though. It was frustrating because I couldn't even hold a desk job in the military or even join a ROTC.

But I digress.

A few organizations were on hand to offer assistance to our veterans.

Michael Gibson / Townsquare Media
Michael Gibson / Townsquare Media
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First was the East Texas Korean War Veterans Association. I heard the story of Sgt. Travis Watkins, who was born and raised in Troup. He is buried at the Gladewater Memorial Park Cemetery in Gladewater and a ceremony is held each year in his honor. He is a true American hero. Read his story below.

East Texas Korean War Veterans Association
East Texas Korean War Veterans Association
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Next was the American Legion. Not only do they provide assistance for veterans but also host many fund raisers for various organizations. There are posts in Tyler, Troup and Lindale. If you are a veteran and would like to join, you can find more details at legion.org.

Next was The Green Zone. This group provides multiple services for veterans in need including counseling, legal assistance, veteran peer support and more. For more details, call 903-593-8965.

Finally was the Texas Wounded Warrior Foundation. This organization helps with those who have returned wounded from combat. They also host various golf activities for wounded veterans. Get more details at txwoundedwarrior.com.

During the day Saturday, the majority of the stores inside Broadway Square Mall offered various discounts to veterans. I talked with Candice Foster, Director of Marketing and Business Development at Broadway Square Mall told me that these discounts were not just for Saturday but certain stores will offer a discount to military members year round. Just present your military ID to see if they offer a discount.

Broadway Square Mall also has hired many veterans in positions from security to management. Some of those employees were on hand to meet, as well.

It was a great event and I hope you had a moment to stop by and thank these men and women for their service. And always, thank you for your service to our country.

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