Commission recognizes military appreciation at meeting

BERNALILLO — The Sandoval County Commission recognized Military Appreciation Month during its May 14 meeting with an official proclamation.

Commissioner Katherine Bruch presented the proclamation with emotion, recalling her own family who served in the military.

“My proclamation for this month is very special to me as an individual who has had many family members for generations serve in the U.S. military in a variety of branches,” she said.

“National Military Appreciation Month, officially designated by Congress in 1999, is celebrated throughout the month of May to honor all who served and are serving still. Today, the United States Armed Forces branches include the Army, Navy, Air Force Marines, Coast Guard and Space Force,” she read aloud from the proclamation.

The proclamation also stated the U.S military force is 2.2 million members strong and includes National Guard and Reserve units. New Mexico is a home to approximately 141,558 veterans and 22,106 active-duty service members, according to the proclamation.

“During Military Appreciation Month, we are reminded of the essential role of the United States armed forces had played in the history and development of New Mexico and our great nation and the world. This patriotic month provides the opportunity for Americans to celebrate, give recognition to those who have sacrificed so much for our freedom and also to acknowledge the contributions made by their family members and loved ones,” Bruch said.

The recipients of the proclamation were wounded warrior Eric Shei and his mom Christine.

When Bruch introduced the Scheis, the group gave him a standing ovation. Christine thanked everyone and talked about their family’s history.

“I’m the wife of a combat engineer, Army, 1982. We have three children who served in the Army,” she said.

She said Eric toured in Iraq and was injured on his second tour when he was shot by a sniper. The injury resulted in him having to use a wheelchair.

“I can’t say enough about this community. So many people have stepped up and offered help, help to improve his home a little bit with trees and shrubs and pathways. So I’m very grateful for the support,” she said.

Schei said she represented New Mexico with the Elizabeth Foundation in Washington, D.C., in 2014 and 2015 as a military caregiver.

“Caregiving has been a challenge for sure,” she said, but she added that she and Eric have done well.

At the end of her speech, the room gave another standing ovation.