A pandemic has not stopped VFW Post 8526 in Rio Grande City, Texas, from providing educational programs for a local school. They’ve simply moved efforts online.
“I am an assistant principal at Rio Grande City High School. I’m able to continue with Veterans in the Classroom through Google Meets with social studies classes,” said Post Commander Mark Olivarez, who also still serves in the Marine Corps Reserve.
“We were able to facilitate a reading of the Medal of Honor award citation for William G. Harrell, who was born in Rio Grande City. We’ve also covered VE Day, Operation Restore Hope, Loyalty Day and other veterans’ projects.”
The Post hopes they can show students the importance of answering the call of duty and serving—wherever that takes them. Olivarez is proud to carry this initiative forward and wants students to see they can contribute, no matter the circumstances.
“The next generation will be called upon to defend the country in years to come. That’s been the way of our nation since its inception. But sometimes service looks a little different,” Olivarez said.
“Due to COVID-19 limiting in-person gatherings, we were a part of the first ever Virtual Memorial Day Ceremony for Rio Grande City. The times have changed, but like everything else we adapt and overcome.”