Two Pflugerville leaders were honored on Veterans Day morning by Republican U.S. Rep. Bill Flores of the 17th District of Texas.

Daniel Griffith, a detective with the Pflugerville Police Department, and Douglas Killian, superintendent of Pflugerville ISD, were two of 26 to be named recipients of the TX-17 Congressional Veterans Commendation, an honor Flores has given annually on Veterans Day since 2012. Recipients will receive a special commemorative challenge coin, a certificate of recognition and a flag flown over the U.S. Capitol in their honor on Veterans Day.

“On Veterans Day, we honor those men and women who have served in our nation’s military,” a release from Flores said. “The military service of this year’s recipients spans over seven decades, from World War II to the current War on Terror.”

Griffith served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1983-89, while Killian served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1989-92 and the U.S. Air Force Reserves.

“I am honored, humbled, and embarrassed by the award,” Killian said in a text message Sunday morning. “It has been my pleasure to passionately serve with and recognize our community’s veterans on behalf of my father and all those men and women who stepped forward to wear the uniform. Lest we forget.”

Griffith has served the Pflugerville community for more than 20 years. Chief Jessica Robledo said he is one of 23 veterans “who continue to serve and give with their servant hearts to the community through the Pflugerville Police Department.

“Dan’s personal disposition is his greatest asset,” Robledo said in an email. “He has a communication style that citizens appreciate. He is known in the community as “Officer Dan” and he has led many community programs over the years including the citizens police academy and National Night Out. Congratulations to Detective Griffith and all veterans whose bravery and love for country inspire us all. I am honored to know him.”

American Legion Kerlin-Lyerly Post 154 Commander Brian Allen said it is important for those who serve their country to serve their community as well, and Griffith and Killian are deserving examples of service to both.

“It is an honor to have these and other service members as leaders in our community,” Allen said. “We are very fortunate to have a strong leader in Dr. Killian. And I’ve known Officer Griffith for years and continue to work with him on programs like Blue Santa. He is just a great guy.”

Allen said several PfISD programs, including the Timmerman Elementary School culture day, Junior ROTC at Hendrickson, Boys State and Girls State, and the upcoming oratorical contest, are a collaborative effort with area veterans and the American Legion post.

“We have a huge partnership with the district,” Allen said. “For these [honorees], it’s all about giving back to the community and looking for ways to improve it.”

A full list of honorees may be found here.

Veterans Day ceremony is Monday

Pflugerville’s American Legion Kerlin-Lyerly Post 154 will host the Veterans Day ceremony at 11 a.m. Nov. 12. Recent rains have moved the event, usually held at Pfluger Park’s Fallen Warrior Memorial, to First Baptist Church, 306 S. 10th St., Pflugerville.

Guests speakers will include Pflugerville ISD Chief Academic and Innovation Officer Brandy Baker, a veteran, and Mayor Victor Gonzales.