AUSTIN — As communities across Texas pause to recognize Veterans Day, the Texas Veterans Commission is not only honoring the sacrifices of those who served but also reflecting on nearly a century of service to veterans and their families.
With the agency’s 100th anniversary approaching in 2027, Texas Veterans Commission Chairwoman Laura Koerner, a U.S. Navy veteran, says Veterans Day serves as a reminder of both the sacrifices made by service members and the ongoing commitment to support them after their military careers end.
“On Veterans Day, we honor the brave men and women who served our nation with courage, dedication and sacrifice,” Koerner said in a Veterans Day message. “As the Texas Veterans Commission approaches its 100th anniversary in 2027, we reflect on a century of proudly serving Texas veterans and their families.”
Established in 1927, the Texas Veterans Commission has spent decades helping veterans navigate benefits, employment opportunities, education programs and other resources designed to improve quality of life after military service. As the commission nears its centennial milestone, agency leaders are emphasizing both its history and its future mission.
“But our mission doesn’t stop there,” Koerner said. “As we look to the future, we remain committed to serving Texas veterans for the next 100 years and beyond.”
Koerner has also emphasized the importance of making benefits and services more accessible to veterans across the state. Ensuring that veterans understand and can easily access the programs available to them remains a key part of the commission’s mission.
Beyond benefits and assistance programs, Koerner said Veterans Day provides an opportunity to recognize the continued contributions veterans make long after leaving military service.
“When veterans come home, they continue to serve — as teachers, business leaders, volunteers and neighbors,” she said. “Their service strengthens Texas, and it is our honor to support them in return.”
That perspective reflects a growing focus among veteran service organizations on recognizing veterans not only for their military accomplishments but also for their leadership roles in communities across the state. From small business ownership and public service to education and volunteer work, veterans continue to play significant roles in strengthening local communities.
As Texas prepares to celebrate Veterans Day with ceremonies, parades and community events, commission leaders are encouraging residents to take time to thank veterans and recognize military families whose support and sacrifices often go unseen.
The message comes during National Veterans and Military Families Appreciation Month, a time dedicated to recognizing both the service of veterans and the contributions of spouses, children and caregivers who have supported them throughout their military journeys.
For the Texas Veterans Commission, the observance serves as both a look back at nearly 100 years of advocacy and assistance, and a look ahead to continuing that work for generations to come.
As Veterans Day is observed across the state, the commission’s message remains simple: honor the service, remember the sacrifice and continue supporting those who have worn the nation’s uniform long after their military service has ended.
