Seguin celebrates Veterans Day with annual parade, ceremony 

(Seguin) — For 90-year-old Betty Jean Youngblood, Veterans Day is about recalling those memories and sharing how proud she was to have served her country post WWII. Youngblood, a member of the Women’s Army Corps (WAC) from 1952-1954, was among those in attendance and was recognized during Seguin’s annual Veterans Day Ceremony at Veterans Park. The Seguin Daily News, on Wednesday, had the honor of talking one-on-one with Youngblood, who today serves as a reminder of the generations of men and women who have fought for our freedoms.

Youngblood, born in upstate New York in 1936, says she has very fond memories of those earlier days, especially when her journey in the military first began.

“Oh, it was a joy. I had never left my hometown and so to leave there and even get on an airplane at 18 — that was scary. I was first stationed in Alabama, where I took my military training and (I) went to New York and from there, I would transfer to Governor’s Island and I served there,” said Youngblood.

Despite the challenges of being young and away from home, she looks back on those military years with deep appreciation. When asked about her best military memory, Youngblood couldn’t help but smile and laugh as she answered.

“It has to do with making my bed because I had been a smarty in my class and spoke out loud and made everybody laugh. So, that was my punishment. It’s either that or wiping the black marks off the stairs from our boots,” said Youngblood.

Now living outside Seguin in a 100-year-old farmhouse her family is gradually restoring, Youngblood says she remains grateful for her life, her family, and the opportunity to serve her country.

When asked what message she would share with today’s generations about Veterans Day, her answer was simple.

“Take care of your country. Vote, be proud of who you are. And thank God every day,” said Youngblood.

Her daughter, Pamela, says her mother’s military service is just one part of what makes her so special. Pamela, who also served in the military, says she has always been drawn to military life, although her own path was cut short.

Pamela served in the U.S. Air Force from 1983 to 1986. She was working as a technical specialist when she developed a seizure disorder that prevented her from continuing in her position. She ultimately received an honorable discharge.

As for her mother, Pamela says she is still amazed by her memories of her military years and the people she served alongside 70 years ago.

“Oh, I’m amazed at her. She is very unique. And is sharp as a tack. I mean, she gave me stories from back when she was in the military — people, she served with, and where they moved to and all of that,” said Pamela.

While Youngblood’s presence was acknowledged, it was Jeremy Pedersen, pastor of Faith Lutheran Church, who served as the guest speaker at this year’s Veterans Day Ceremony. Since arriving in Seguin, Pedersen, a military veteran, has shared how his service to our country has extended into the faith community. Before the ceremony, the Seguin community also gathered for the annual Veterans Day Parade. The parade, which traveled from downtown Seguin to Veterans Park on Jefferson Avenue, featured a handful of floats. The top float winners include: First Place, Seguin High School’s Jr. ROTC; Second Place, the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Doug Herrle Chapter 61 and Third Place, the 1910 car.

The annual celebration is organized each year by the DAV with the support of the local Veterans Council. The council includes various veterans organizations serving the Seguin and Guadalupe County area.