Commander's Corner July 2027

As I write this month's Commander's Corner, I'm reminded of something I've said many times: our Post is defined by the people who show up.

And if you missed our recent events...you missed something special.

As summer arrives in Central Texas, I continue to be amazed by what our Post can accomplish when we work together. Over the past two months, we have celebrated our nation's traditions, honored those who served before us, strengthened our ties to the community, and continued building a Post that truly lives the American Legion motto, "Veterans Strengthening America."

Our Flag Retirement Ceremony was one of those events that reminds you why the American Legion exists. Watching worn and weathered American flags receive the dignity and respect they deserve, surrounded by veterans, families, and members of our community, served as a powerful reminder that patriotism isn't just something we celebrate once a year; it's something we practice. It was one of those ceremonies that leaves you quietly reflecting long after the final salute.

I would like to personally thank everyone who volunteered their time before, during, and after the ceremony. Whether you helped collect flags, prepared the ceremonial site, presented the colors, sounded Taps, or simply attended to show your respect, you helped preserve one of our nation's most meaningful traditions. A special thank-you goes to our bugler, Daniel Smallwood, whose moving rendition of Taps provided a fitting and memorable close to the ceremony.

Our first Prayer Breakfast was another milestone for Post 911. Fellowship, faith, and service have always been important parts of the American Legion, and it was encouraging to see members come together in an atmosphere focused on gratitude, reflection, and community. I appreciate everyone who attended and helped make this inaugural event successful. Based on the overwhelmingly positive response, we look forward to making this a continuing tradition.

One of the highlights of June was welcoming the Commemorative Air Force Devil Dog Squadron. Their presentation, along with the opportunity to learn about the legendary B-25 Mitchell and hear firsthand accounts from aviation veterans and volunteers, reminded us of the importance of preserving military history for future generations. History only survives when people are willing to tell its story.

If you weren't there, we missed you. But more importantly, you missed the opportunity to experience what makes Post 911 such a special place. I encourage everyone to come to our next event. Every meeting, every ceremony, and every volunteer opportunity is another chance to strengthen the friendships and camaraderie that define the American Legion.

This Independence Day carries a significance unlike any other in our lifetime.

America celebrates 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Earlier this month, we also recognized the 250th birthday of the United States Army, and this fall we will celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States Marine Corps. These milestones remind us that our freedoms have never been guaranteed. They have been defended by generations of Americans willing to serve something greater than themselves.

Here in our own community, there are wonderful opportunities to celebrate. Cedar Park's Cedar Sparktacular returns to Milburn Park on July 4 with live entertainment, family activities, food vendors, and one of the area's premier fireworks displays. Just across town, Leander's Liberty Fest once again brings neighbors together with live music, children's activities, local vendors, and a spectacular fireworks show celebrating our nation's birthday. Whether you attend one of these events or simply spend time with family and friends, take a moment to reflect on the remarkable experiment in liberty that began 250 years ago.

Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice was quoted in this month's Legion magazine saying:

"The essence of America—that which really unites us—is not ethnicity, or nationality, or religion. It is an idea, and what an idea it is: that you can come from humble circumstances and do great things."

As we celebrate Independence Day, may we remember that those words are just as true today as they were when they were spoken. Our nation has always been strongest when we stand together, not because we agree on everything but because we share a commitment to liberty, service, and one another.

Finally, I want to leave everyone with one important reminder.

While fireworks are a joyful tradition for many families, they can also be a difficult experience for veterans living with combat-related stress or post-traumatic injuries. The sudden flashes and loud reports can bring back memories that many would rather leave in the past.

Please take a few moments this holiday weekend to check on your fellow veterans. Make a phone call. Send a text. Invite someone over for a meal or to watch the fireworks from a quieter location. A simple buddy check may mean far more than you realize.

As Legionnaires, we never stop looking after one another.

As always, I encourage every member to stay engaged. Attend our monthly meetings, volunteer for an event, participate in one of our committees, or simply introduce yourself to a new member. The strength of our Post has never depended on one individual. It has always depended on the willingness of ordinary veterans and their families to serve something greater than themselves.

I wish each of you and your families a safe, meaningful, and happy Independence Day.

For God and Country,

Ray Via II

Commander American Legion Post 911

Boys and Girls State Update

Our Boys State and Girls State students have now returned from their programs, and we look forward to hearing about their experiences at an upcoming meeting. Investing in the next generation of leaders remains one of the most important missions of the American Legion, and we thank everyone whose support makes these scholarships possible each year.

July 14 Meeting: You Won't Want to Miss This One!

7:00 PM

1150 S. Bell Blvd. Cedar Park, TX 78613

As we move into July, we continue our commitment to education and remembrance. Our July meeting will feature a special presentation on the Buffalo Soldiers, giving members an opportunity to learn about this remarkable chapter in both American and Texas history.

Allen Mack and fellow historical reenactors will be on hand with authentic uniforms, equipment displays, artifacts, and stories that bring history to life. Whether you're a lifelong history enthusiast or simply curious to learn something new, this promises to be one of our most memorable meetings of the year. Bring a friend; this presentation is open to the public.

Allen Mack at a World War I reenactment.

Donation Day at Shake Shack

Shake Shack1905 E. Whitestone Boulevard Cedar Park, Texas 78613

Join us on Tuesday, July 14, from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 p.m. for our Donation Day fundraiser.

These events provide much-needed financial support for our veteran programs, youth initiatives, scholarships, patriotic education, and community outreach throughout Cedar Park and the surrounding area.

Simply use the promo code DONATE when placing your order, and a portion of your purchase will directly support Post 911. Every meal purchased helps us continue serving veterans, active-duty military, first responders, and local families.

Bring your family, invite your friends, and enjoy a great meal while supporting a great cause.

Help Us Build a Lasting Legacy

One of the proudest traditions of American Legion Post 911 is our annual Flag Retirement Ceremony. Each year, hundreds of worn and weathered American flags are retired with the dignity, honor, and respect they deserve. As our ceremony continues to grow, so does the need for a permanent ceremonial site worthy of the occasion.

We have launched a fundraising campaign to renovate and improve our Flag Retirement Ceremonial Area, creating a lasting place of honor that will serve our veterans, our community, and future generations. This project will provide a dedicated setting where we can continue one of the American Legion's most meaningful traditions for years to come.

Whether you are able to make a financial contribution or simply share our campaign with friends and family, every act of support brings us one step closer to making this vision a reality.

Together, we can build a place that reflects respect for our nation's flag and for those who have defended it.

Support the project by visiting our GoFundMe campaign.

Fundraiser by American Legion Post 911 : Support Flag Retirement ceremonial site renovation

Commemorate America's 250th Birthday

To celebrate the 250th Anniversary of American Independence, Post 911 has created a limited number of beautifully framed commemorative American flags. These displays serve as a lasting reminder of this historic milestone and the generations of Americans who have defended the freedoms we enjoy today.

These commemorative framed flags are available with a minimum donation of $20 while supplies last. Every donation directly supports the programs and community outreach efforts of American Legion Post 911, helping us continue to serve veterans, promote youth leadership, and preserve our nation's traditions.

If you would like to reserve one, please see a member of the Post leadership team at one of our meetings or events.

July Prayer Breakfast

Our next Prayer Breakfast will be held on Saturday, July 18, at 7:30 a.m at the IHOP in Whitestone.

We invite everyone to join us for breakfast, fellowship, and an encouraging start to the weekend. Whether you've attended before or this will be your first time, we'd love to have you with us as we continue building another great tradition at Post 911.

Membership Matters

Membership remains the foundation of everything we do at Post 911. Every ceremony, scholarship, youth leadership program, veteran support effort, and community event is only possible because of our members' continued support and participation.

Annual dues for American Legion Post 911 are $50.00. Membership renewals support programs at the Post Department and National levels while ensuring we remain a strong, active voice for veterans and their families throughout Cedar Park.

Members should note that The American Legion operates on the upcoming membership year well in advance of the calendar year. National Headquarters begins processing renewals for the next membership year on July 1, which is why many members begin receiving renewal notices for 2027 earlier than expected.

While membership cards expire on December 31 of the paid membership year, there is an administrative period before members are removed from the rolls. Members who become delinquent after January 1 are suspended beginning February 1 and may be dropped from the membership rolls after June 30 if dues remain unpaid.

Renewing early helps the Post maintain strong membership numbers throughout the year and supports planning for our youth programs, ceremonies, veteran outreach efforts, and community activities.

At Post 911, we also view membership as something far more meaningful than simply paying annual dues. We believe membership means remaining connected to fellow veterans, supporting the community, and continuing a life of service after military duty.

Our hope is that every member attends at least three meetings or events each year and volunteers to support at least one outreach activity annually. Whether it is Boys State and Girls State, Flag Day ceremonies, veteran support activities, community outreach, fundraising, or mentoring young people, every member has something valuable to contribute.

When the workload is shared across the Post, no one carries the burden alone, and everyone can take pride in the accomplishments we achieve together as a veteran community.

We especially encourage members who may not have attended recently to come back out and reconnect. Your presence, experience, and support continue to matter.

If you have questions regarding your membership status or renewal, please reach out to the Post leadership team during one of our meetings or events.

Louis Wolting

Adjutant

American Legion Post 911