Harlingen CISD celebrates Veterans Day, message of freedom

HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Harlingen South High School and its JROTC on Monday gathered to celebrate our men and women who served in the military.

The school's gym was the site where veterans were honored for their military service. Members of the Harlingen CISD School Board were on hand for the ceremony.

"Veterans Day means a lot to me and I think it's important to communicate this message to the youth because what we need to know is that freedom doesn't come free," said Ricky Leal, banker and U.S. Air Force veteran. "It takes people who sign on the dotted line, are willing to defend our country and potentially fight for our country to keep us that way. I hope that's the message everybody takes home."

Leal and other veterans said they appreciated the efforts of Harlingen South High School and the entire school district for honoring veterans.