Steven Schulz and Wesley Canning both graduated from Friendswood High School in 2002 before joining the U.S. Marine Corps. The two, whom city officials called “sons of Friendswood,” now each have a park that bears his name.
Schulz served two tours of duty in Iraq and was injured by an IED in 2005. While still recovering from injuries, he advocates for other injured service members, officials said.
Cpl. Steven Schulz salutes the crowd at the dedication ceremony May 29.[/caption]Canning was killed in action during his second tour in Iraq.
Mayor Kevin Holland addressed a crowd of more than 100 people at the renaming ceremony May 29.
“It is my hope that in perpetuity, people—especially young people—will ask, ‘Who is Steven Schulz?’ and be inspired by the answer,” Holland said. “I also hope they will ask, ‘Who was Wesley Canning?’”
The facility on FM 528 and Moore Road is now called “Corporal Steven Schulz Sportspark,” and “Lance Corporal Wesley J. Canning Sportspark” is located on Baker Road.
Memorial Day festivities concluded with a gathering at the Friendswood Veterans Memorial on May 30. Hundreds of residents attended the event, which included a speech from decorated veteran Col. Todd Desgrosseilliers, who served 30 years in the Marine Corps.
Family and friends gathered at the dedication ceremony for the late Lance Cpl. Wesley Canning.[/caption]The event ended with its annual group photo of past and present military members in front of the memorial, which the city dedicated six years ago.
“When we look at this memorial, we see a flag and a reflection: a reflection of our history, a reflection of our diversity [and] a reflection of our character,” Holland said. “For we are all different, yet we are all Americans. God bless our military, past and present, and their families, God bless Friendswood, and God bless America.”
