On Nov. 2, 2023, Legionnaires of San Antonio, Texas, Fred Brock American Legion Post 828 volunteered in support of the 2023 Spirit of America Dinner, the premiere event of Celebrate America's Military (CAM), at the Tobin Center for the Performing Arts.

Hosted by the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce, CAM is a series of events honoring the men and women who serve in the nation’s military - active, guard and reserve from all branches.

The Spirit of America Dinner, presented by Texas A&M University in San Antonio, is attended annually by over 500 military personnel from all branches of service, as well as businesses and civic leaders from across Military City U.S.A.

The evening included a cocktail reception, an elegant dinner and entertainment from a U.S. Army Band ensemble.

This year’s keynote speaker was Michael Rodriguez, president and CEO of the Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation.

Rodriguez, an Army Green Beret, deployed 10 times throughout his career and was medically retired due to numerous combat injuries in 2013.

According to Post Service Officer Edward Jones, having Legionnaires volunteer at the event not only provides an opportunity for Post 828 to give back, but also provides another opportunity to increase awareness of The American Legion and its pillar programs.

Special thanks to Lori Stinson, vice president of Military Affairs for the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce for allowing Post 828 to provide a service to the military community.

On Nov. 3, the Post hosted its annual CAM Junior Non-commission Officers (NCO) Reception presented by Mojo Consultants.

During the event, active-duty troops and their guests were treated to complimentary seafood dinners and drinks to include a free live performance from Danielle Hamilton and The Band.

The Post thanks the following sponsors for their continued support of the Junior NCO Reception: USAA, First Command, Silver Eagle Beverages, Moussa Temple No. 106 (Prince Hall Shriners), Noble Gentlemen of San Antonio, Claude W. Black Center Advisory Board, and the Montoya S. Rover Foundation.

Special thanks to Department Vice Commander Richard Huntley (3rd Division) for his attendance and support.

San Antonio is home to one of the largest concentrations of military bases in the United States and is home to the Department of Defense’s largest medical center at Joint Base San Antonio Fort Sam Houston.