On Saturday, April 26 at 1 p.m. there will be a special tribute to all veterans buried in Round Mountain Cemetery on County Road 962 just north of highway 281. The cemetery is known as a “museum without walls.”

Approximately 33 veterans will be honored with a special ceremony conducted by the Highland Lakes Honor Guard. All are welcome and encouraged to attend.

Among the veterans buried there, one served during the Texas War of Independence from 1835-36. Another served in the Meir Expedition against Mexico that took place between 1842 and 1846 during the early days of the Republic of Texas, and yet another served during the War Between the States from 1861 to 1865. Veterans from all branches of service are buried there.

The Highland Lakes Honor Guard is a non-profit, tax-exempt organization comprised solely of war veterans who volunteer their time to render military funeral honors at no cost to the families of deceased veterans. Such honors include an honor guard contingency, a three-stage rifle volley, the playing of taps, a flag-folding ceremony, full funeral and committal services if requested, and a flag presentation to the next of kin.

Representatives from Ft. Hood in Killeen will be present to certify the Highland Lakes Honor Guard as Authorized Providers of Military Funeral Honors.

Currently, the Commander of the Honor Guard, Charlie Taylor, is so certified. Under Department of Defense regulations, certain organizations that are not active military may serve in this capacity and satisfy all requirements of a military funeral.

This event is being held in conjunction with the regularly scheduled Round Mountain Cemetery Association’s Clean-up Day. Although no one is required to participate in the clean-up, those that would like to do so are invited to bring tools, drinks, lunch, chairs, etc.

In case of rain, the event will be rescheduled for May 3, at 1 p.m. For more information, contact Tina Burnham at (830) 693-4207 or Charlie Taylor at (325) 248-0450.