Veterans Day in Ulysses began in the early morning hours of November 11, 2025, as members of the local Kiwanis Club and Boy Scouts gathered at the corner of Grant and Central. Together, they placed American flags along the streets — a long-standing tradition that transforms the town with patriotic color each year on national holidays.
By 6:30 a.m., members of the National Honor Society were setting up at Bear Creek Coffee for their annual Veterans Day Breakfast. The event has become a community favorite, welcoming local veterans for a warm meal and a morning of appreciation. Guests enjoyed entertainment from the Ulysses High School Concert Choir, followed by a moving performance of Taps by a band student. Tables were adorned with handmade decorations from local grade school students, a heartfelt touch honoring those who served.
At 8 a.m., staff at Pioneer Electric Cooperative began their morning safety meeting with a moment of reflection. Board Chair Mike Brewer spoke briefly about his service experience and returning home before the group joined in prayer.
Later in the morning, the Dexter D. Harbour American Legion Post 79 hosted its annual Veterans Day Program at the Civic Center. The event opened with a stirring rendition of the National Anthem by Haylee Kastl. The Legion Honor Guard presented a 21-gun salute outside the building, followed by Taps performed by Miranda Vasquez. Attendees were then served chili and cinnamon rolls by National Honor Society members — another cherished local tradition.
The program included an invocation from Gloria Mortenson and a welcome from Legion Commander Silas Rosales. Musical performances were given by Harvest Christian School students, followed by speeches from Carissa Dunlap, Matt Reppart, Nancy Borthwick, and Ken Warner. The event concluded with a benediction from Mortenson. Commander Rosales commended the speakers for their heartfelt messages and thanked community members Chuck Walters, Steve Eddie, and Munsell’s Welding Class for their work in creating the memorial crosses displayed at the event.
A flyer distributed during the program recognized Pioneer Communications, Pioneer Electric Cooperative, Kenny and Mary Keller, and Casey’s General Store for their continued support of local veterans and events.
At 3 p.m., a special presentation was held in the Kepley Auditorium to further honor local veterans for their service to the nation — these events and many like them closed out a day filled with gratitude, remembrance, and community pride.
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