As we begin a new year, I reflected on this past years events of American Legion Post #196.

In February, the Post hosted a Suicide Prevention Program at the Lyric Theater. The program was presented by The American Military Family www.americanmilitaryfamily.org.

In March, the Post began meeting with veterans who reside at the Care Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Brownwood. We meet with the veterans on the first monday of the month and regularly have 10 to 15 in attendance. The highlight of the year at the care facility was the Veterans Day program where all veteran residents were recognized and honored.

In April, the Post held its second annual fundraiser, The Claybird Shotgun Shootout. Planning is already in motion for this year’s event which will take place on April the 5th at the Brownwood Claybird Club.

In May, the Post awarded Scholarships to several graduating seniors at Brownwood High School and participated in the Memorial Day Ceremony at the Veterans Memorial Park.

In July, the Post was recognized both statewide and nationally at the American Legion Department of Texas Convention. The Post received awards in retention, new members and meeting monthly goals. As of this writing, we are on pace to again meet those goals. I am so proud of our membership and the Post.

In November, participating in the Veterans Day Ceremony at the Veterans Memorial Park and participating in the Wreaths Across America. This year a wreath was placed at the grave site of Isham A. Smith who is laid to rest in Zephyr. The Post is named after Isham A. Smith who was the first Brown County resident killed in World War I.

In December, the Post reached a historic day in the Post’s history. 20 years ago the Post entered a lease agreement with the City of Brownwood for the property located at 1600 Burnett. Over those years, the Post has had many memories and is very thankful for the support of the City of Brownwood. The membership voted to change locations from 1600 Burnett Drive, Brownwood to 700 Fisk Avenue, Brownwood.

Starting on January 14th, 2025, American Legion Post #196 membership meetings will be at the Union Presbyterian Church located at 700 Fisk Avenue, in the fellowship hall. The Post is excited about the centrally located downtown historic building and is looking forward to the future growth of the Post and helping our local veterans. If you are a local veteran we would be honored for you to attend the meetings.

Important dates in February:
11th: Post meeting at 700 Fisk Ave. The Union Presbyterian Church. As a reminder, If you are a Veteran and in need of assistance, please reach out to the local VA clinic here in Brownwood, Texas Veterans Commission – Sean Lewis at 1600 Burnett, Brownwood and Brown County Veterans Service Office also located at 1600 Burnett, Brownwood.

LET NO VETERAN FEEL ALONE
American Legion Post #196 is located at 700 Fisk Ave., The Union Presbyterian Church, in the Fellowship Hall. Post meetings are the second Tuesday of each month. A meal is provided at 1800 hours followed by a Post meeting at 1900 hours. Yesterday we served our country, Today we serve our Community.