As the calendar advances into mid-January 2026, American Legion Post 38 in Floresville, Texas, is turning its focus to one of the key early-year events in the Department of Texas: the upcoming Mid-Winter Conference. Scheduled for January 27 through February 1, 2026, this annual gathering serves as a vital checkpoint for Legionnaires statewide to review progress, receive training, and energize efforts for the remainder of the 2025-2026 membership year.
What is the Mid-Winter Conference?
The Department of Texas Mid-Winter Conference is a multi-day event that brings together members of The American Legion, the American Legion Auxiliary, and the Sons of The American Legion for leadership meetings, workshops, program updates, and strategic planning. Unlike the larger Department Convention (typically held in summer), Mid-Winter emphasizes mid-year momentum—particularly membership drives, awards presentations, and training sessions to support posts like Post 38 in achieving their goals.
This year's conference aligns perfectly with national membership benchmarks, coming shortly after the Mid-Winter target date of January 14, 2026 (aiming for 80% of the department's overall goal). It's an opportunity to celebrate early successes, address any shortfalls, and rally for the push toward Presidents Day (February 11) and beyond.
Key Highlights and Agenda Focus
While the full detailed agenda is available as a downloadable PDF on the Department of Texas website (txlegion.org), expect sessions covering:
- Membership Growth
- Be the One Initiative
- USA 250 Challenge
- Program Training and Education
- Awards and Recognition
The event fosters camaraderie across the American Legion Family, with joint sessions, networking opportunities, and time to connect with Department Commander Richard Huntley and other leaders.
Practical Details for Attendees
- Dates: January 27 – February 1, 2026 (a full week to accommodate travel, meetings, and activities).
- Room Rates: Approximately $121.00 per night (based on current department postings; rates may include taxes and are subject to availability).
- Registration: Pre-registration may be closed by now, but onsite options are typically available (often around $35 for related Auxiliary events—check for updates). No registration fee for WWII/Korean War veterans.
- Hotel Booking: Use the group link or toll-free number provided on txlegion.org/conventions/mid-winter/ (call 1-888-236-2427 or similar for reservations). Book early, as blocks fill quickly!
- Location: Specific venue details (likely in Austin or a central Texas spot, consistent with past patterns) are listed on the department site—visit txlegion.org for the latest agenda, forms, and housing info.
Why Participate?
For members of American Legion Post 38 in Floresville, this conference is more than meetings—it's a chance to bring back fresh ideas for local impact. Whether strengthening membership outreach at the post hall, hosting Be the One sessions in Wilson County, or contributing to community service projects, the training and motivation gained here directly benefit veterans in Floresville, and surrounding areas.
Let's make the journey to Mid-Winter count—Be the One, stay committed, and keep Post 38 leading the way in service to America's veterans. For more details, head to txlegion.org or call the department office. Safe travels, and here's to a productive conference!
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As the calendar flips to January 2026, American Legion Post 38 in Floresville, Texas, is gearing up for a strong finish to the early membership targets in the 2025-2026 membership year. Located at 1412 4th Street in the heart of Wilson County, this historic post—chartered decades ago and proudly serving veterans in the Floresville community—continues its tradition of "Veterans serving Veterans" with renewed energy.
Membership Growth: Hitting Those Early Benchmarks
The national and department membership year runs from January 1 to December 31, but key target dates drive progress early in the year. With the Mid-Winter Conference milestone approaching on January 14, 2026 (aiming for 80% of goal per national guidelines, with Texas-specific incentives), Post 38 members are focusing on:
- Achieving or exceeding the post's 2026 membership goal, set at one more than the final 2025 numbers (as per Texas Department policy, with district commanders able to adjust slightly).
- Recruiting new veterans, particularly from the post-9/11 era, and welcoming back lapsed members through personal calls, community events, and outreach.
- Promoting multiyear memberships for long-term stability.
- Qualifying for department awards like the Post 100% Award (certificate, pins, and streamer by the May target) or early cash incentives for hitting 105% by December 31.
Posts reaching 100% by key dates earn recognition, and those surpassing goals can qualify for rebates ($1 per member over 100%) and other honors. For Post 38, this means building on its community hall (available for rentals at 830-393-7929) as a hub for veteran gatherings, membership drives, and family events to attract new members.
Advancing Be the One and Mental Health Support
The American Legion's primary mission, Be the One, remains front and center to combat veteran suicide by reducing stigma around mental health and encouraging outreach. Post 38 members are encouraged to:
- Host or participate in training sessions.
- Foster peer support networks.
- Engage the Floresville community in awareness events.
Many set personal New Year resolutions to "be the one" who checks in on a fellow veteran—aligning perfectly with the post's ethos of direct, local service.
Community Service, Patriotism, and the USA 250 Challenge
Post 38 often leverages its location for hands-on impact, including flag presentations, veteran assistance, and support for youth programs. As America approaches its 250th birthday on July 4, 2026, the USA 250 Challenge inspires members to log 250 miles or hours in fitness, mental wellness, or service. Local goals might include organizing fundraisers, community clean-ups, or events tied to American Legion Baseball, Boys State, or patriotic observances.
Other priorities include timely submission of Consolidated Post Reports (CPRs) to showcase the post's contributions and advocacy for VA benefits and military quality-of-life improvements.
Setting Post 38's Path Forward
With the January 14 Mid-Winter target just days away, now is the ideal time for Post 38 to hold planning meetings, review current membership standings, celebrate early wins, and rally for action. Whether through hall-hosted recruitment nights, outreach to area veterans, or collaboration with the American Legion Auxiliary and American Legion Riders, collective effort makes the difference. Since its founding, Post 38 has been a cornerstone for Floresville veterans—hosting camaraderie, support, and service. In 2026, with Commander Shaw's leadership, the post is poised for growth and greater impact.
If you're a veteran in the Floresville area, join Post 38 today—renew, recruit a buddy, or get involved! Contact the post at (830) 393-7929 or via their website https://txlegion38.org/ for the latest reports, forms, and resources.
Here's to a successful 2026 for American Legion Post 38 — Be the One, stay strong together, and keep serving America!
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The trumpet calls across the Texas sky,
Remember me as I sleep,
Say a prayer for me, for I cannot,
I gave my last full measure for thee.
*For soon, soon to faithful warriors comes their rest.
All gave some… but some gave all.
On Monday, May 25, 2026, the men and women of American Legion Post 38 in Floresville, Texas, will gather in solemn remembrance of those who paid the ultimate price so that our Republic might endure.
This is not merely another parade or a day off work. This is sacred ground we stand upon. These hallowed hours belong to the brave American warriors who heard the distant thunder of war, set aside their own dreams, kissed their loved ones goodbye, and ran unflinching toward the sound of the guns. They left behind families, futures, and the simple joys of home to defend our Constitution, our God-given rights, our customs, our traditions, and the very soil of this blessed land we call the United States of America.
Some fell on foreign battlefields from the beaches of Normandy to the mountains of Afghanistan. Others gave their last full measure in training accidents, on peacekeeping missions, or in the quiet line of duty here at home. Their names may be etched in stone at Arlington, in small-town memorials across America and Texas, or known only to God and the comrades who carried them. But every one of them answered the call with courage, fidelity, and valor that stirs the soul of every true patriot.
Their families still carry the ache of empty chairs at holiday tables. Their brothers-in-arms still hear the echoes of their laughter in the wind. We, the living, owe them a debt that can never be repaid in full, but must be honored in full measure.
As Lt. Gen. Chesty Puller reminded us, “Valor is not found in the heart or hand of a man, but in the eyes of his comrades well served.” These warriors served us well, long after some had hung up their uniforms. Now they sleep eternally beneath the flag they loved.
Our national gratitude is simple yet profound: Remember them. Speak their names. Teach our children what freedom truly costs. On this Memorial Day 2026, let every American pause amid the backyard barbecues and summer sun to offer a prayer of thanksgiving for their courage, their sacrifice, and their undying love for this greatest nation on God’s green earth.
Let us share, if only for a moment, in the grief of Gold Star families and the pride of every veteran who still stands watch over the blessings they secured.
General George S. Patton said it best: “We should thank God such men lived.”
And so we do.
Rest in peace comrades dear, God is near.
This Monday, May 25, 2026, at American Legion Post 38 in Floresville, Texas, we will stand tall, render honors, and recommit ourselves to the sacred duty of remembrance. Because freedom is never free, and the price was paid in American blood.
May God continue to bless the United States of America, and may He grant eternal rest to all who gave their last full measure of devotion.
*For All the Saints who from their labors rest.
Jose Garcia
American Legion Post 38, Historian
Floresville, Texas
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The American Legion Post 38 stands firmly with our nation's heroes. Visit our website at https://txlegion38.org/ for more information on our community events, veteran support programs, and ways to get involved.
Urgent Call to Action: Congress Must Pay Our Coast Guard Now
The men and women of the United States Coast Guard serve tirelessly to safeguard our nation's maritime borders, protect our ports, conduct life-saving search-and-rescue operations, and intercept narcotics traffickers and human smugglers. These critical missions are essential to our national security and homeland defense—especially at a time when global threats place our country at one of the highest risk levels in decades.
Yet, due to an ongoing partial government shutdown and lapse in funding for the Department of Homeland Security (which began in mid-February 2026), Coast Guard servicemembers and their families face the unacceptable prospect of missing paychecks. This uncertainty creates severe financial hardship, even as these dedicated personnel continue performing their vital duties without interruption.
Paid or not, Coast Guard members remain professional and committed. They do not waver in their service to our country. It is time for Washington to stop the political games and ensure they receive the compensation they have earned.
The American Legion, representing 2.5 million members of the Legion Family nationwide—including our local Post 38 in Floresville—strongly supports immediate action. We echo National Commander Dan K. Wiley's call for Congress to end the shutdown and protect Coast Guard pay and entitlements. The Coast Guard remains uniquely vulnerable under DHS funding, unlike other military branches, a disparity highlighted in past shutdowns like 2019.
Congress should act swiftly to pass H.R. 5401 / S. 3030, the Pay Our Troops Act of 2026 (also referred to in some contexts as the Pay Our Military Act). This bipartisan legislation would provide continuing appropriations for military pay—including for the Coast Guard—during any lapse in funding, preventing future pay disruptions and reducing unnecessary strain on servicemembers and their families.
The repeated threat of shutdowns undermines morale, readiness, and financial stability for those who protect us. Now more than ever, Congress must feel the unified voice of America's veterans.
Members of The American Legion Family, including our Floresville community: Take action today!
Contact your two U.S. Senators and your House Representative immediately. Urge them to prioritize and pass H.R. 5401/S. 3030 to pay our Coast Guard without delay.
You can find your elected officials' contact information at https://www.votervoice.net/AmericanLegion/Campaigns/135442/Respond. Send a message, let your representatives know that veterans and patriots demand accountability and support for those who serve.
Together, our 2.5 million voices can make a difference. Let's ensure our Coast Guard heroes are paid now.
For more on national American Legion advocacy efforts, visit legion.org. Locally, stay connected with Post 38 events and veteran resources at https://txlegion38.org/. Thank you for your support—God bless our Coast Guard and all who serve.
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The American Legion Post 38 in Floresville, Texas, is proud to promote the American Legion Boys State and American Legion Auxiliary Girls State programs. These transformative week-long experiences empower young leaders to dive deep into the democratic process, develop essential leadership skills, and embrace the responsibilities of citizenship. Designed for high school juniors, these programs offer hands-on learning in government operations, civic engagement, and teamwork—preparing participants to become the next generation of informed and active citizens.
Boys State' Review: Give Me a Teen and I'll Show You a Politician ...
Whether you're a student eager to run for office in a simulated government or a teacher/counselor looking to inspire your juniors, these programs provide unparalleled opportunities for personal growth, networking, and real-world application of civic principles.
Program Overview
Sponsored by The American Legion and its Auxiliary, Boys State and Girls State simulate state government operations. Participants are divided into fictional political parties, form cities and counties, elect officials, debate policies, and pass legislation—all while fostering critical thinking, public speaking, and collaboration. The non-partisan programs emphasize patriotism, respect for American traditions, and the importance of service to community, state, and nation.
Activities include:
- Party conventions and elections at city, county, and state levels.
- Debates, consensus-building, and civil discourse.
- Interactions with real government officials and visits to state capitol facilities.
- Team-building exercises that promote lasting friendships and leadership development.
Graduates often report a renewed appreciation for democracy, enhanced communication skills, and a drive to lead in their schools and communities.
Key Details for 2026 Programs
| Program | Dates | Location | Eligibility | Cost | Application/Registration Deadline |
| Texas Boys State | June 7-12, 2026 (Sunday registration 12:30-4:00 PM; Friday dismissal after 1:00 PM) | University of Texas at Austin | Male high school juniors with at least one semester remaining; demonstrated leadership, character, scholarship, loyalty, and service. Must not have attended previously. | Typically sponsored by local American Legion Posts (contact for details) | May 1, 2026 (nominations often start earlier via schools or Posts) |
| Texas Bluebonnet Girls State | June 14-20, 2026 (Sunday to Saturday) | Texas Lutheran University, Seguin | Female high school juniors (third year) in Texas public, private, or parochial schools; no prior attendance. | $550 per delegate (sponsored by ALA Units or schools; fee covers program but not transportation) | May 1, 2026 (reservations open Feb 1 for ALA Units, Feb 15 for schools) |
Voices rising at Girls State – The Norseman
Slots are limited, and programs fill quickly—early action is recommended!
How to Participate
For Boys State: Nominations typically come from high school officials (counselors, teachers, etc.) or local American Legion Posts. Interested students should contact their school or Post 38 for sponsorship. Apply online at [texasboysstate.org](https://www.texasboysstate.com/).
For Girls State: Candidates/delegates must be sponsored by an American Legion Auxiliary Unit or high school. Units and schools reserve spots via the reservation form, then will register the selected student (s) with their information. Contact your local ALA Unit or school for opportunities. Register at [alatexas.org/gs-registration](https://alatexas.org/gs-registration/).
Why Participate?
These programs are more than just a summer camp—they're a launchpad for future leaders. Alumni gain scholarships, college application advantages, and connections with like-minded peers. If a student is interested in any service academy, this program is highly recommended and strengthens the application. Many go on to Boys Nation or Girls Nation in Washington, D.C., for national-level simulations.
As Brian Niday, 2nd Vice Commander and Boys & Girls State Coordinator for Post 38, emphasizes: "This is a great opportunity for personal growth and networking with peers who share interests in leadership and public service."
For questions or to get involved, contact Brian Niday at 210-428-1360,
American Legion Post 38 is committed to fostering the next generation of leaders. Share this with eligible students today—registrations are now open!
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