TAMPA, Fla. — Walmart’s Heroes & Headliners concert honored local Tampa veteran Maxine Reyes and others on Veterans Day.
Reyes has always had music in his heart. No matter where her life took her, singing was her way of living.
“This is what I received when I left Afghanistan,” Reyes said from his Tampa home, pointing to one of the many plaques, awards and military photos.
She is a military veteran who served in Afghanistan, Qatar, Kuwait, and Haiti. She served in the United States Air Force for 11 years and then served another 11 years in the Army.
She witnessed conflict and helped those in need.
“I never stopped singing,” Reyes smiled. “Even during difficult times, music has brought me solace.”
Reyes was born in Jamaica and immigrated to the United States as a teenager.
“I joined the Air Force when I was 15 years old and graduated from high school,” Reyes said.
Her Jamaican roots will never be forgotten. In fact, tears still flow when she sings the song she wrote about her great-grandmother.
“That song is an original that I wrote many years ago and it still brings back childhood memories about her,” Reyes said with tearful eyes.
Family has always been important to her. Because of her service, Reyes was able to meet the love of her life.
“This is my husband’s. I was also a commander, but this Captain Reyes is my husband,” she said, pointing to another poster on the wall.
Kenneth Reyes also served in both the Air Force and Army. The two now have a teenage daughter, and his daughter has also started singing with her mother.
“I’m looking forward to seeing her shine too. This is something she loves, so I don’t know if she wants to pursue it, but for now she’s doing it with me.” I love doing it,” Reyes said.