White Sands Missile Range Supports Veterans Day Ceremony

Official Statements

• White Sands Missile Range Public Affairs, November 12: “Socorro, N.M. (Nov. 12, 2026) - White Sands Missile Range personnel joined community members at Isidro Baca Park on Wednesday to observe Veterans Day, reinforcing the installation's longstanding ties to its northern neighboring communities. Col. Michael Lueckeman, garrison commander at White Sands Missile Range, served as the keynote speaker. Lueckeman told attendees that Veterans Day offers a vital opportunity to reflect on military service.”

• White Sands Missile Range Public Affairs, November 12: "It is a day when communities like Socorro come together to honor the men and women who have worn our nation's uniform, who have carried its colors, and who have defended its ideals in times of peace and in times of conflict," Lueckeman said. “It is an honor to stand with you.” The ceremony was hosted by the City of Socorro and drew veterans, service members, and their families from across the region.”

• White Sands Missile Range Public Affairs, November 12: “Other attendees included Socorro Mayor Ravi Bhasker, local and state elected leaders, and representatives from the New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology. Lueckeman noted that the Isidro Baca Park houses a remnant of "Jumbo," the 214-ton steel containment vessel built for the Manhattan Project's 1945 Trinity test, located roughly 40 miles southeast of Socorro.”

• White Sands Missile Range Public Affairs, November 12: "It serves as a reminder of New Mexico's unique and enduring connection to our nation's defense, from the earliest days of the atomic age to the missions being carried out today at White Sands Missile Range and across our Armed Forces," Lueckeman said. The event commenced with the presentation of the colors by the 2nd Battalion, 6th Air Defense Artillery Regiment Color Guard and concluded with a rifle salute honoring fallen service members.”

• White Sands Missile Range Public Affairs, November 12: "While Memorial Day rightly honors those who gave their lives in service to our country, Veterans Day gives us the opportunity to recognize all who served, past and present, and to thank them for their contributions to our nation's security and prosperity," Lueckeman said.”