Texas Veterans’ Military Show Returns to Bullard, Honoring Heroes
BULLARD, Texas — The Texas Veterans’ Military Show will return Saturday, Sept. 13, offering East Texans a chance to honor America’s heroes through a day filled with history, remembrance and celebration.
The event, held from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 655 S. Doctor M. Roper Parkway, features a Medal of Honor parade, classic car show, military vehicle displays and appearances by Medal of Honor recipients.
The day begins at 9 a.m. with a parade from Tyler to Bullard, led by the Patriot Guard. Veterans will ride in military vehicles as helicopters fly overhead, including Hueys and a CH-46. Upon arrival, the ceremony will include a color guard, pledge, prayer, a Marine 21-gun salute, the national anthem, and a World War II-era aircraft flyover.
Throughout the day, attendees can explore “Machine Gun Alley,” ride in military jeeps, visit the Texas Wall, and view more than 50 military vehicles including tanks, SWAT units and a military gunship. An 80-foot American flag will be raised during the ceremony. Entertainment will include live music from the band Mouse and the Traps.
Mike Balfay, founder of the event, said the show is his way of honoring veterans, especially those who did not receive recognition after returning from Vietnam.
“I began hosting car and military shows about 10 years ago. This marks the sixth year for this particular event,” Balfay said. “When Vietnam veterans returned home, they weren’t given the honor they deserved. It’s important to me to pay tribute to these heroes and all who’ve served. Two of my family members served in Vietnam. I didn’t serve in the military, so this is my way of giving back.”
The Texas Veterans’ Military Show will also feature living history exhibits, a military swap meet, fire trucks, a Flight for Life helicopter, law enforcement vehicles and health booths. The schedule includes a veterans’ introduction ceremony at 10:45 a.m., lunch and live music at noon, jeep rides at 1 p.m. and trophy and prize drawings at 2 p.m.