SAN ANTONIO – (Nov. 11, 2022) – More than 200 veterans and their family members gathered at Fred Brock American Legion Post 828 to honor all who served in the U.S. Armed Forces on Veteran Day. Annually, Post 828 hosts a ceremony to honor those who served and are continuing to serve in the greatest military force in the world.

This year, H-E-B Operation Appreciation hosted a True Texas BBQ luncheon at the conclusion of the ceremony.
H-E-B Operation Appreciation is a companywide campaign created to honor the brave men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces — men and women who are H-E-B partners and customers, friends and family.

“We are very grateful for the meals and volunteers provided by H-E-B Operation Appreciation,” said Post 828 Commander Burrell Parmer, a Marine Corps veteran. “It felt great to know that local businesses such as H-E-B gives back to veterans in its area of operations. We are looking forward to future partnerships with H-E-B.”

During the ceremony, Jerry Johnson, H-E-B’s top store leader SA7, San Antonio Region and member of the San Antonio Veterans PRG Chapter, provided remarks and presented Post 828 with a $5,000 donation in support of its annual Project Shoes program.

“In contributing time, talent and financial support, H-E-B recognizes and appreciates the dedication and sacrifices servicemembers make on behalf of the nation,” said Johnson.

Project Shoes is part of the post’s Children & Youth program, which raises funds to purchase new shoes for high school students within the post’s area of responsibility.

“This totally caught us all by surprise,” said Parmer, who presented a certificate to Johnson announcing H-E-B Operation Appreciation and San Antonio Veterans PRG Chapter as the platinum sponsor of the post’s 75th Diamond Anniversary Celebration. “As the saying goes, it takes a village.”

The keynote speaker for the program was fellow Legionnaire and retired Air Force Lt. Col. Mary L. Wooldridge, who delivered a resounding speech.

Near the conclusion of the ceremony, Parmer recognized Legionnaire and retired U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. William E. Woods, who served as post commander from 1989 to 1990. The Korean and Vietnam War veteran was presented with a certificate of 40 years of membership in The American Legion.

To close out the ceremony, members stood proudly as their service song was played. Afterwards they gathered in front of the post’s Veterans Wall of Honor for photos.