Amarillo VA honors Veterans, 9/11 at Annual Patio of Honor Bricklaying Ceremony
The Amarillo VA Health Care System memorialized Veterans who have passed away and honored the victims of 9/11 at the Annual Patio of Honor Bricklaying Ceremony on Monday, September 11, 2023.
The Annual Patio of Honor Bricklaying Ceremony began its tradition in 1999 at the Amarillo VA Medical Center. Since then, hundreds of Veterans who have passed on have been memorialized and honored with their names engraved on bricks that have been laid at the medical center’s Patio of Honor by the Veteran’s loved ones.
“Honoring the memory of a loved one or comrade in arms, is how we continue to hold that special bond with them and allow their legacy to live on,” said Dr. Rodney S. Gonzalez, Director of AVAHCS.
This year, 18 Veteran’s names were engraved on bricks as their family laid them down to be displayed for years to come and perpetuate their memory.
“I think it’s an amazing thing that the Amarillo VA does for its Veterans and their families,” said Julie Maxey, who attended to lay a brick in honor of her husband, Rickey Maxey, a U.S. Air Force Veteran . “I know through [my husband's] last years, he was incredibly happy with the treatment that the Amarillo VA provided to him. It was such an honor for them to reach out and help me to honor my loved one.”
The significance of this day is also the 22nd Anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks. AVAHCS held a moment of silence in respects to the victims of 9/11.
“It’s been 22 years since the September 11th terrorist attacks,” said Dr. Gonzalez. “22 years since 2,977 innocent people were killed on American soil, and 22 years since our nation came together to defend their honor. May we never forget.”
If you would like to submit a request for an engraved brick to display at next year’s ceremony, please email amarillovoluntaryservice@va.gov or call 806-354-7811.