Edinburg Honors 90 Fallen Heroes at Memorial Day Ceremony

"Edinburg, TX — Proudly recognized by the Texas Legislature as a “Hometown of Heroes,” the City of Edinburg invites the community to gather in solemn remembrance during its annual Memorial Day Commemorative Ceremony on Friday, May 22, at 10 a.m. at the Edinburg Municipal Auditorium, located just behind Edinburg City Hall.This meaningful ceremony will pay tribute to Edinburg’s 90 fallen heroes—all brave men who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of the United States. Their courage, patriotism, and selfless service continue to inspire the community and serve as a lasting reminder that freedom is never free. The program will feature a distinguished keynote address by GySgt. Juan Rodriguez-Chavez, USMC (Ret.), recipient of the Navy Cross, one of the nation’s highest military honors for valor.The ceremony will also include a stirring musical tribute and a symbolic Battlefield Cross presentation by the Edinburg High School JROTC Honor Guard, under the direction of SFC (Ret.). Micaela Reyes, a 21-gun salute by VFW Post 8788, and the Presentation of Colors by the Marine Corps League of the Rio Grande Valley Detachment 1456.In one of the ceremony’s most moving moments, members of American Legion Post 408 will read the names of Edinburg’s fallen heroes—from World War I through the most recent conflicts—ensuring that each name is spoken with honor and remembered with gratitude.A special portion of the ceremony will recognize the community’s Gold Star families—those who have lost a loved one in military service to our country. The City of Edinburg extends a heartfelt and personal invitation to the families of its 90 fallen heroes to attend this solemn tribute. “Memorial Day is a sacred opportunity for our community to pause and honor the extraordinary men from Edinburg who gave their lives in service to our nation,” said Mayor Omar Ochoa. “As a Hometown of Heroes, we are committed to preserving their memory and ensuring future generations understand the profound cost of the freedoms we enjoy today.”The ceremony is free and open to the public. Veterans, active-duty military personnel, military families, students, and civic organizations are especially encouraged to attend and join the community in paying tribute to the heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice.For more information, please contact the City of Edinburg Library & Cultural Arts Department at (956) 388-8224. Event Details  Date: Friday, May 22, 2026  Time: 10 a.m.  Location: Edinburg Municipal Auditorium, located just behind Edinburg City Hall "