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KILGORE, Texas (KETK)– On Monday morning, Kilgore College paid tribute to the men and women of the armed forces who proudly call the campus home.

The ceremony opened with remarks from Dr. Philip Parnell, a U.S. Air Force veteran who served from 1985 to 1993 and now serves as KC’s Vice President of Student Engagement.

Parnell presented the prestigious Veterans Hero Award to alumnus Sergeant Daniel Matthews, a Marine whose courage and dedication reflect the highest ideals of service.

Matthews began his studies at Kilgore College in 2024 after serving more than 17 years in the U.S. Marine Corps, rising to the rank of Gunnery Sergeant. His career included multiple overseas deployments to Kosovo, Iraq, the Persian Gulf and Afghanistan, earning him numerous commendations for bravery and leadership under fire.

“Veterans like Matthews are a solid representation of what it means to be American, brave and proud. They don’t go unappreciated and should always be held in the highest regard,” Parnell said.

Sergeant Randy Terry, the youngest active member at Kilgore College, was also honored. Terry follows in the footsteps of two relatives who served before him, an uncle who fought in World War II and another relative who served in Vietnam. Their experiences left a lasting impression on him. “Hearing all their incredible war stories from back then made them my main inspiration for joining,” Terry said. “It’s a family tradition.”

Terry shared that during weeks like this, simple gestures of gratitude mean the most. “The best thing is to just say thank you,” he said. “Shake my hand, hold the door, any little thing means a lot. But most importantly, a thank you is what truly matters.”

As Rangers came together to honor veterans from all ages and branches of service, James Horton from the campus Veterans Affairs office reminded everyone that freedom comes at a cost.

“It’s very important that we recognize the individuals who have put their lives on the line and made sacrifices,” Horton said. “It’s because of these veterans and service members that we’re able to enjoy the freedoms we have every single day.”

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