Commander Barnett leads walk through ‘Valley of Lions’

In a city where locals still remind the world to “remember the Alamo,” American Legion National Commander Dale Barnett led a walk last Saturday to remind Texans to remember America’s veterans as well.

“The bravery and sacrifice of men like Crockett, Bowie and Travis are legendary,” Barnett said. “They fought so Texas could be free. We held an American Legion Walk for Veterans in Leon Valley, a suburb of San Antonio, to honor another special group, today’s defenders of freedom – the men and women of the U.S. military.”

Dozens of American Legion members gathered at Raymond Rimkus Park on Halloween morning to not only raise awareness about veterans issues but money for the National Emergency Fund, a fitting cause in a week when much of Texas was ravaged by floods.

“Uncle Sam doesn’t always understand that it needs to care for our veterans,” said Past National Commander John Brieden. “We impact more people than any organization that I know.”

The walk included a wide range of Legion family members, including recent graduates of the Texas Boys and Girls State programs, and 96-year old World War II veteran Jack Nicholson, who was born two months before The American Legion was formed.

“We are so honored to host this walk,” said Leon Valley Mayor and American Legion Auxiliary Unit 336 member Chris Riley. “Back in the 1600s when the Spaniards founded this area, it was teeming with mountain lions. That’s how Leon Valley got its name –Valley of Lions.”

Riley then read two proclamations, one officially declaring Leon Valley’s support for The American Legion Walk for Veterans and the other bestowing honorary Leon Valley citizenship to Barnett.

“We appreciate and support our veterans, this is ‘Military City USA,’” said City Councilman and Post 336 member David Jordan. “This is a community of veterans from every war. We really appreciate the commander coming here.”

U.S. Selective Service Director Lawrence Romo, a Legionnaire from Alamo Post 2, also participated in the walk. He explained the role that the Selective Service plays in supporting the national security of the United States. “We protect our freedom and provide deterrence by making sure young men, age 18-25, register in case of a national emergency and Congress and the president say we need a draft,” Romo said. “Optimal communication is very essential to what we do, and that’s why the Selective Service System resolves to establish a partnership with The American Legion because (The American Legion) is at the forefront, and they help us with our issues and concerns.”

Department of Texas Commander John McKinny emphasized the Legion’s role in speaking up for veterans and their families. “Without The American Legion, our veterans would probably be without a voice. We speak so those in the military and the widows and orphans of veterans can have a voice.”

To learn more about whether an American Legion Awareness Walk for Veterans is scheduled in your area, please contact your department headquarters or visit www.legion.org/walkforveterans.