CONNIE THOMAS: RGV DISTRICT 15 PRESIDENT
By CONNIE THOMAS
On Sept. 16, 1919, the American Legion was granted its federal charter by Congress. 90 years later, on Sept. 15, 2009, Congress proclaimed Sept. 16 as American Legion Day.
Established to support and assist veterans returning from World War I, American Legion Day has since grown and supported veterans of all wars and veterans of peacetime as well. There are currently over three million veteran members at more than 14,000 Legion Posts worldwide. Sept. 15, 2023, was National POW/MIA Recognition Day. More than 80,000 Americans are still missing in action. Together we must dedicate ourselves to get them home and never forget their sacrifices.
On Sept. 21 – 23, the newly elected District officers for the four pillars of the American Legion family attended the State of Texas Department Executive Committee (DEC) Conference in Austin. The Legionnaires, The Auxiliary, The Sons of the American Legion (SAL) and The Riders (a motorcycle charter) make up that family which serves veterans in their areas throughout Texas. This is a training and Plan of Action conference marking the beginning of the fiscal year that began on Sept. 1. The Financial Budget for the State of Texas was read, discussed and voted upon as was the Girls State Budget. Girls State will send between 500-550 high school ladies to Texas Lutheran College in Seguin to learn our legislative process for one week.
They will then be bussed to the Capitol in Austin to witness legislation in progress. Our State Auxiliary President Holly Heatly’s theme this year is “All Aboard and Keeping on Track for our Veterans.” Her logo is an old-fashioned steam locomotive. The program fair that preceded the opening ceremony and business reports was decorated to reflect this theme.
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