Pictured are (from left) Larry Hume, Derrick Roberts, and Mary Roberts.
October 13, 2025 - VFW Post 8904 members held a remembrance of the service and sacrifice of Afghanistan Veterans during a program held October 9, 2025.
Post Commander Derrick Roberts offered the opening prayer and led the program.
“24 years ago, America launched its counter-attack against terrorism, attacking terrorist targets in Afghanistan and ushering in Operation Enduring Freedom and the global war on terrorism,” said Roberts. “To date, there have been over 23,000 military deaths in Afghanistan. Among that number are the sons and daughters os big cities and small towns. Four years ago we lost 13 service members killed in August 26, 2021, near Kabul’s international airport less than a week before the United States was set to complete its military withdrawal on August 31. We remember them today also.”
Shelby County, Texas, as in all previous wars also suffered losses. Roberts reminded everyone that Army Specialist Cory Bertand and Sgt. Kevin Casey Roberts were two of those lost.
U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Kevin Roberts was killed in action on May 7, 2008, when his vehicle hit an improvised explosive device (IED). Sgt. Roberts was not from Shelby County but met a local girl and fell in love with Shelby County.
“As was his wish, he is buried in the West Hamilton Cemetery in Shelbyville,” said Roberts.
U.S. Army Specialist Cory Bertrand died in Afghanistan five months later on October 14, 2008, one month before his 19th birthday. His vehicle also struck an IED.
“He is buried in Pleasant Hill Cemetery also in Shelbyville,” said Roberts.
Derrick Roberts then place a wreath in honor of those that have served and who have sacrificed.
A moment of silence was then honored in memory of those who have served, but have since passed.
