Texas Border Business
By Roberto Hugo González
“We’re so excited to see so many familiar faces here and new friends,” began the enthusiastic opening from the Texas Regional Bank (TRB) Jamie Brown-Rosas, SVP and Chief Community and Business Development Officer at Texas Regional Bank in McAllen., setting the tone for a heartfelt gathering to honor local veterans’ bravery, sacrifice, and service. The event united community members, civic leaders, educators, and veterans in a powerful demonstration of gratitude and remembrance.
The event opened with a moving prayer by Sister Norma Pimentel, who invoked strength and courage for armed forces members. “May they ever experience your firm, support, gentle love, and compassionate healing,” she prayed. This was followed by the presentation of colors by the JROTC from McAllen Memorial High School, led by retired Sergeant Major Roy De Leon.
The solemn ceremony was the spirit of respect and patriotism that permeated the day.
The pledge of allegiance was led by three TRB employee veterans—United States Marine Corps veteran Domingo Cortez, United States Navy veteran Elias Treviño, and current United States Navy Reserve member Cutter Uhorn. Their service stood as a reminder of the event’s purpose, and the gathering joined in reciting the pledge, united in respect and gratitude. Yareli Cano, a talented freshman and mariachi singer from McAllen High School, performed the national anthem, leaving many with “a tear in their eye.”
TRB’s commitment to the community and its veterans shone brightly throughout the event. “Many men and women in our region have sacrificed time away from family and friends, and sadly, for some of their lives, for our continued freedom,” said Jamie. “Hosting this celebration is just a tiny way that Texas Regional Bank can bring our community together to celebrate these folks.”
The first honoree, Sergeant Francisco Barrientes, was introduced by Joe Brown, a former TRB Bank executive and a dedicated, respected community leader who proudly shared, “Sergeant Barrientes is a native Texan from Edinburg…He faced guerrilla fighting and unfamiliar terrain.” Barrientes stood as a symbol of resilience and dedication, and his bravery during the Vietnam War left a lasting legacy. “Serving our country is an honor,” Barrientes shared, reflecting on his harrowing experiences, including surviving multiple severe injuries. “On that day, I could have died,” he recounted, describing the moment a bullet shattered his face. “I’ve been blessed,” he concluded, expressing gratitude for his life despite enduring 40 surgeries and profound challenges.
Barrientes devoted 40 years to volunteering in local schools, demonstrating his commitment to his community. “The school board decided…to have a school in my honor,” he noted humbly, recalling how the Edinburg school district recognized his contributions by naming a middle school after him.
Colonel Frank S. Plummer, Jr., the second honoree, was introduced by Jim Darling, former McAllen Mayor and US Air Force veteran. “We did it because we love our country,” Darling said, speaking for all veterans present. “Nothing more, nothing less.” Plummer’s remarkable service spanned World War II, Korea, and Vietnam, earning him numerous commendations, including the Silver and Bronze Star. Reflecting on the Colonel’s service, Darling shared a vivid story of Plummer’s bravery during a battle in Vietnam.
“Colonel Frank Plummer,” Darling continued, “is the guy in charge of the war memorial here in McAllen. And so, when Colonel tells you to do something, you do it.” Plummer’s dedication to building and maintaining a local war memorial is a lasting tribute to all veterans. “Our democracy is threatened,” Plummer warned, urging everyone to appreciate and defend the freedoms safeguarded by service members.
Emphasizing the emotional toll of war on families, Plummer shared a touching story of children honoring a loved one’s memory at the memorial. “The value of our life…don’t lose it,” he reminded attendees, emphasizing the importance of unity and remembrance.
Texas Regional Bank President Brent M. Baldree expressed heartfelt appreciation in his closing remarks. “Veteran’s Day is a special time,” he said. “We…thank our community for joining us today…and especially honor Sergeant Barrientes and Colonel Plummer. We thank them for their sacrifice and their bravery.” TRB’s commitment to celebrating and preserving veterans’ legacies was evident throughout the event, reflecting their pledge to “never forget the heroes of this country.”
The program concluded with a celebration of Colonel Plummer’s 99th birthday. “We have a couple of surprises,” announced the organizers, including a song and cake for the Colonel. The atmosphere of respect and joy encapsulated the day’s purpose: to honor, remember, and connect with those who have given so much for their country. As TRB’s leadership reminded all present, we must remember and cherish these sacrifices. “Thank you for joining us today at TRB,” Baldree is finalized.
