The Harlandale Memorial Monument was built in September 1971 to recognize the fallen Harlandale ISD students that were drafted into the United States Armed Forces to fight in the Vietnam War.
Esteban Sosa wanted to create this monument to honor Harlandale ISD students who had fallen in the war. Sosa knew firsthand how devastating war can be for someone. He himself served in World War II and the Korean War. Sosa was able to raise money for the monument by fundraising with tamale sales and benefits from baseball games.
Currently, Harlandale ISD hosts a Memorial Day ceremony in order to pay tribute to our veterans. On the monument, there are over 90 names to which families still pay tribute. This ceremony is held annually and includes a presentation of colors by Harlandale High School JROTC and songs sung by the Gillette Elementary School Choir. Then, after the presentation is held, families pay tribute and place flowers and flags on the monument.
Source: Harlandale ISD Facebook
By: Isabella Hudman, Intern, TXST