(Katy, Texas) – The American Legion, founded in 1919 in Indianapolis, Indiana, is a national service organization comprised of war-time veterans focused on Veterans and Rehabilitation, Americanism, National Security, and Children and Youth. Its fingerprints can be traced to many legislative changes to help solve veteran issues to meet their needs and concerns (most recently the PACT Act), the founding of other non-profits in support of its mission and addressing the security of the nation as seen by veterans. The annual state convention was held in Austin, Texas in July for 3-days for policy discussions and breakout sessions for 453 posts that comprise the Department of Texas, representing 53,319 veteran members.
State Commander Bret Watson, comments: “I had the privilege of meeting Legionnaire Thelma Williams at The Wreaths across of America in Katy last year. I was told that she was planning to attend the Department convention in Austin, and I was delighted to see that she was able to attend. It was my honor to present her and James Watson (my 25-year-old son) with the oldest and youngest delegate on the floor. It just shows you the range of ages of veterans that support our great organization. Ms. Williams is one of the veterans of the greatest generation and I hope she can make it back next year.”
American Legion Jonathan D. Rozier Member Profile – Thelma Williams
www.youtube.com/watch?v=1JLPCg4z9OI (4:24 min.)
"Thelma Williams is a treasure, exemplifying the best characteristics of the United States military - duty, honor, fidelity - in both her uniformed service as well as civilian life. She represents an era when selfless acts were commonplace, not the exception,” says Peter Batura, Katy American Legion Post 164 Commander, “Reaching the milestone age of 103, Thelma remains active and is an encouragement to virtually everyone she comes in contact. Engaging conversation and great stories are your reward for spending time with her."
Ms. Williams served the U.S. Army Corps from 1943 to 1947 and performed her duty in Europe Germany and Japan.
“I was very fortunate to serve in the occupation forces in Germany and Japan and in all, I had a very good experience,” said Ms. Williams, “I would do it all over again in a heartbeat if I were many, many years younger. At first, I joined the American Legion for the dinners that they had, but then later I came to enjoy the camaraderie and worked a lot with the American Legion Auxiliary.”
The American Legion Post 164 in Katy meets every 3rd Tuesday starting at 6:30PM for a social mixer and then business meeting at 7:30PM at 22125 Kingsland Blvd., Katy, Texas. The gathering is open to current members and new prospective members.
To review a complete schedule of activity of American Legion Post 164, please visit: www.LegionPost164KatyTX.org
###