American Legion Auxiliary Department ALA Unit 379 History
ALA Unit 379 July 2023 - July 2024
Historians: Jennifer Kearney and Leanne Couch
Dedication
Auxiliary Unit 379 is comprised of compassionate members who continue to consider innovative approaches and efforts to support members wisely, while also imparting the history and traditions of the how Post 379 came to be. These Auxiliary members continue to amaze recipients with countless hours of dedication and service. Their initiative is infinite as their diligence and attention to detail. It is no wonder the Bedford Legion Post 379 is so proud and thankful for what the Auxiliary officers and members do to serve the Dallas/Fort Worth community and the hearts and minds of veterans. These members are also empowered with the will to adapt by providing an online/digital history and scrapbook to communicate their efforts electronically to members across the US. Unit 379 hopes to continue the new tradition and educate other Units in how to do this!
The American Legion Auxiliary Unit 379 embodies the True Spirit of Service, Not Self.
Prayer
Let us pray, Almighty God, for thy wise guidance in times of need.
Help us to remember with reverence, the valor and devotion of our departed comrades, who gave their all for our freedom.
Lord, teach us to honor them by ever cherishing the ideals for which they fought. Keep us steadfast in the cause of Human Rights and Liberties, of Law and Order and true Americanism. Give us the power to see, and the will to do the right.
Eternal Father,
may the American Legion and Auxiliary preserve the high ideal for which our comrades fought, were injured and some died. May Thy merciful blessings rest upon those left behind. Keep us forever firm in righteousness, humble of heart, and unselfish in purpose.
Amen.
Authored by
Former Auxiliary Unit 379 Chaplain Jean Ross
Celebrating over 30 years as a member
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands, one Nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all
STAR SPANGLED BANNER
O say, can you see
By the dawn's early light
What so proudly we hailed At the twilight's last gleaming? Whose broad stripes and bright stars
Through the perilous fight
O'er the ramparts we watched Were so gallantly streaming? And the rocket's red glare The bombs bursting in air Gave proof through the night That our flag was still there
O say, does that star-spangled banner yet wave
O'er the land of the free And the home of the brave?
PREAMBLE TO THE CONSTITUTION OF THE
AMERICAN LEGION AUXILIARY
For God and Country, we associate ourselves together for the following purposes:
To uphold and defend the Constitution of the United States of America; to maintain law and order;
To foster and perpetuate a one hundred percent Americanism; to preserve the memories and incidents of our associations during the Great Wars;
To inculcate a sense of individual obligation to the community, state, and nation; to combat the autocracy of both the classes and the masses;
To make right the master of might; to promote peace and goodwill on earth;
To safeguard and transmit to posterity the principles of justice, freedom, and democracy; to participate in and contribute to the accomplishment of the aims and purposes of The American Legion.
To consecrate and sanctify our association by our devotion to mutual helpfulness.
UNIT AND DEPARTMENT INFORMATION
Sheryl Frydenburg
President, American Legion Auxiliary Unit 379
Secretary, American Legion Auxiliary District 12
2023-2024 Legion Auxiliary Unit 379 Officers
President: Sheryl Frydenberg
First Vice President: Judy Davidson
Second Vice President: Vacant
Third Vice President/Membership: Jodie Chapman
Treasurer: Suzie McClendon
Secretary: Jennifer Jones Kearney
Chaplain: Diane Hunt
Historian: Leanne Couch / Jennifer Jones Kearney
Sergeant at Arms: Molly Coyle
Executive Board:
Eileen Polen, Karen Burks, Mona Scarborough
Parliamentarian: Michelle Birkett
12th District Vice President: Michelle Birkett
AWARDS
The Bedford Auxiliary Unit 379 and its officers received several Department awards in 2023.
M.D. Anderson Showcase Awards
Supporting Cancer Research Scholarships
HEB Unit 379
Largest Cancer Donation in the State of Texas
Division 1: Highest Unit Donation to Cancer Research
Dept of TX Historian’s Award
1st Place - History Book 2nd Place -Scrapbook
HISTORY
American Legion Auxiliary Unit 379 2023-2024
JULY
Located in Bedford, TX the summer of 2023 started with the Auxiliary's election of new officers just prior to the Department convention in July.
The Unit welcomed the following ladies in their new/continuing positions during the elections on July 9th.
Sheryl Frydenburg- President
Judy Davidson - 1st Vice President
Jodie Chapman - 3rd Vice President/Membership
Suzie McClendon - Treasurer
J.J. Kearney – Secretary (Co-Historian)
Diane Hunt – Chaplain
Leanne Couch - Historian
Molly Coyle - Sergeant at Arms
Mona Scarborough, Karen Burks, Eileen Polen -Executive Board:
Michelle Birkett- Parliamentarian
The Department convention was held in Austin July 12th-16th with Parliamentarian Michelle Birkett and Secretary JJ Kearney attending. During the convention, Auxiliary 379 submitted its digital and hardcopy versions of the History and Scrapbook authored by Co-Historians Leanne Couch and J.J. Kearney with many of the members providing insights, experiences, and photos of the year’s events. Unit 379 was presented with several awards for the largest cancer donation in the state of Texas.
Back in 2022 Historians J.J. Kearney and Leanne Couch presented the first submittal of an online-digital Unit history and scrapbook at the Department Convention, which included a QR code to access the document electronically by mobile phone for its members. Unit 379 hopes to continue the new tradition and educate other Units in how to do this!
In 2023 Unit 379 received first place for its submittal of the Auxiliary’s History Book and second place for the Unit’s Scrapbook while at the Department of Texas Convention!
This was the Secretary’s first experience seeing fellow members of the Texas ALA. It was an honor meeting spouses, daughters, granddaughters, and greatgranddaughters of veterans who served during times of war. The purpose of the convention is to conduct organizational business, elect officers and set agendas for the upcoming year. The convention also provides opportunities for members to participate in educational workshops, leadership training, and community service projects. It was a wonderful experience creating lifelong memories and congrats to Holly Heatly as the new Texas Department Auxiliary President!
“Christmas in July” gift exchange is always a fun adventure! It has been one of the positive outcomes from the COVID-19 epidemic since 2021. This year on July 20th the Auxiliary celebrated with extensive participation that included a potluck of side dishes, desserts, and many mystery gifts for the participants to choose from. The Auxiliary invites all ladies from the community including relatives to join in the spirit of camaraderie!
At the start of 2023 with “Service not Self” President Sheryl Frydenberg, and Chaplain Diane Hunt help keep the Auxiliary mindful of the VA&R Programs the group supports. Therefore, a donation box was made available in the lobby for members to donate canned goods, toiletries, and hygiene products to be delivered to Valor Ranch in the future. At the end of July, President Sheryl Frydenberg and her granddaughter Calista visit Valor Ranch with $1K in donations carrying four large boxes of hygiene items, food, and goodies. Valor Ranch then provides any excess to homeless vets by filling backpacks and disbursing them.
Valor Ranch is a remarkable organization located in Decatur, Texas, dedicated to providing support and resources for veterans transitioning to civilian life. It serves as a haven for veterans seeking healing, empowerment, and a renewed sense of purpose. At Valor Ranch, veterans have access to various programs and services, including mental health counseling, vocational training, recreational activities, and community engagement. The ranch's serene surroundings and supportive community create a nurturing environment for veterans to rebuild their lives and connect with fellow service members who understand their
experiences. Through its comprehensive approach, Valor Ranch plays a crucial role in helping veterans successfully navigate their post-military journeys and embrace a brighter future. This is an ongoing project for the Auxiliary, so it is never too late to participate. Remember service not self. These folks have given so much for America's freedom.
AUGUST
In August, the Unit reconvened with a review of what occurred during the summer months just before and after the convention. It was a very busy time for the Auxiliary Unit!
Vice-President Judy Davidson and Chaplain Diane Hunt shared the events of Texas Girls State held June 18th-24th at Texas Lutheran University in Seguin. With 1600 attendees in Austin, five were sponsored by Auxiliary Unit 379 coming from Grapevine, L.D. Bell, Colleyville Heritage, and Southlake Carroll high schools. Addy Hunt, daughter of Diane Hunt was one of the participants sponsored by Unit 379. In September, the participants visit the Auxiliary general meeting and describe their experience. In preparation for the experience, Auxiliary member Fay Chambers made “Success Bags” (canvas) school supplies, snacks as gifts to the participants of TX Girls State, she reinforced how this event is developing the "next generation of girls" for advancement. VicePresident Judy Davidson discussed what opportunities the program provides and how she coordinates each year with the local high school counselors.
Girls State is a program with a long history of building connections, educating younger generations on the duties, privileges, and responsibilities of being an American citizen. The Auxiliary has already received thank you cards from the girls describing their exciting experience. Most of the funds raised for Texas Girls State are arranged by Vice-President Judy Davidson. The weeknights with entertainment such as karaoke and live bands Judy, Molly Coyle, and Peggy Waring of auxiliary make dinners available to purchase for a donation.
Next year’s selection process promises to become more rigorous and documented with plans to help ‘pay it forward” for future Girls State candidates.
Treasurer Suzie McClendon requests the Unit make its continual $500 contribution to the Euless Fire Station #3548 Annual Golf Tourney in support of its firefighters in need. Her husband Ronnie Mac is a retired fire fighter, and a highly valued SAL member at the Legion, who offers to cook the entrees and smoke many of the meats during the Legion events.
A review of the Finances calls for Membership funds to be collected and earmarked. On Memorial Day $401 was raised to benefit members who need assistance with affording their memberships and offset the increasing cost.
At this point membership is just ten short of its goal of 465 members!
Fall is coming and that means the Unit starts preparing for its Annual Cancer Benefit to be held the weekend of 9/29-10/1. It includes a pancake breakfast, basket raffle, and popper purchases.
SEPTEMBER
On the weekend of 9/11, the Post provided a service and lunch honoring those lost and the First responders who sacrificed their lives in 2001. The Auxiliary members graciously donate entrees and side dishes to support the many meals that encourage fellowship and hope at Post 379.
The participants from Texas Girls State visit the general meeting for a meet and greet. These ladies provided exceptional speeches and insight about their experiences at the convention in Austin. Their professionalism and demeanor really shined through and gave the Auxiliary members great confidence in their ability to succeed as they prepare for college.
Auxiliary Chaplain Diane Hunt works continuously with “Well Check” calls for our members and their loved ones. The Chaplain has been known for arranging Troop Care Packages filled with comfort items donated by members of the Post, as well as handwritten letters describing the deep appreciation the membership has for its active-duty servicemen and women.
The Auxiliary leadership emphasized the importance of the kitchen meetings schedule and participation. Cooking for the auxiliary is a way to help donate the funds to the program of the member’s choice.
During the end of September, the Auxiliary is working diligently with preparations for the Annual Cancer Benefit that include donations of gifts, baked items, popper stuffers, and position sign ups, the event occurs the first weekend of October.
OCTOBER
In October, the Auxiliary hosted its Annual Cancer Benefit supporting the ALA's Department of Texas scholarship campaign. This effort funds Cancer Research Scholarships in collaboration with M.D. Anderson.
MD Anderson has various educational programs, fellowships, and research opportunities available for students and aspiring researchers interested in cancer-related fields. These programs aim to foster scientific inquiry, advance cancer knowledge, and support the next generation of cancer researchers and healthcare professionals.
Dozens of Auxiliary members help each year by donating their time and effort with acquiring donated items from businesses and local community members, by arranging and designing beautiful gift baskets for the auction. The junior members help with the popper filling exercise, the sales of these items, and recycling the popper containers (paper towel tubes) to use for the popper sale the following year. The pancake breakfast is always a huge success bringing folks from all over the community to promote awareness and support.
Throughout the year the ladies have several streams of income and initiatives that have helped raise as much as $24K in the past for Cancer Awareness. For twenty years Unit 379 has been the greatest contributor to the campaign.
These events occur at the Post along with donation requests sent to local businesses within the community with generous responses. All while wearing tie-
dye t-shirts with "Peace, Love, Cure" noting "All Cancers Matter" and "This Family Fights for a Cure!"
The Auxiliary works to improve its communication and processes with its members! During the Cancer benefit Historian Leanne Couch and Secretary JJ Kearney coordinate the Auxiliary’s first digital payment system using Zeffy. Zeffy is a payment portal that supports non-profit organizations like the Auxiliary by providing a payment system at no charge to the organization. Zeffy provides the payment and transaction services for free while requesting a ‘tip’ from donors to help support the site. This site is also used for the Unit’s membership process when paying by credit/debit card or apple/google pay.
As for the digital newsletter, it is now the one-year anniversary of using Constant Contact to inform the members via email distribution. The newsletter is vibrant with the Auxiliary’s logo and bright images highlighting the community news, special events, points of contact and even embedded the general meeting minutes from the previous month. Officers Leanne Couch and JJ Kearney continue to find ways to improve communication and find electronic means for raising funds and maintaining memberships for Auxiliary Unit 379.
At the end of October, Auxiliary members showed their creativity while setting up the Halloween decorations around the facility and created certificates and prizes for contests such as scariest, best couple costume. Members of the Post bring entrees and sides for the Halloween celebration. Everyone who dressed up and celebrated had a great time. Music, food, beverages, and a raffle were available along with the finale providing prizes to the contest winners. The Unit takes
advantage of the 379 Rider’s chili cookoff that same day, with the remaining chili donated for the dinner along with “Halloween Ghoulash”, cornbread, and lots of dessert.
NOVEMBER
On November 11th, the Post participated in the Tarrant County Veterans Day Parade celebrating Maj. Horace S. Carswell Jr. a Medal of Honor Recipient and a 1939 Texas Christian University Graduate in Fort Worth, TX. The Auxiliary continues to make its annual donation of $200 to the Tarrant County veteran’s day parade, where it’ supported by many aerospace and defense businesses and personnel from Carswell Joint Reserve Base located nearby.
The Veterans Day Parade is a cherished community event that honors and pays tribute to the brave men and women who have served in the armed forces. The parade typically features a procession of marching bands, veterans' organizations, military vehicles, and floats representing various community groups. Spectators lining the streets show their support by waving flags and cheering for the participants. The parade serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by veterans and their families, and it provides an opportunity for the community to come together in gratitude and respect. Alongside the parade, there are music performances, speeches, and ceremonies to commemorate the significance of Veterans Day and express appreciation for the dedicated service of military personnel. Others in the community, such as Texas Roadhouse Restaurant and the Patriot House, had the opportunity to celebrate Veteran's Day with the Post’s Honor Guard presenting The Colors.
The Patriot House for Veterans is a haven of support and gratitude, dedicated to honoring and serving those who have selflessly served. Nestled within a serene and welcoming community, the Patriot House provides a safe and nurturing
environment for veterans to heal, reconnect, and rebuild their lives. This extraordinary facility offers comprehensive services and resources tailored to meet the unique needs of veterans, including housing, counseling, career guidance, and healthcare assistance. With a steadfast commitment to empowering veterans, the Patriot House ensures they receive the respect, dignity, and opportunities they deserve. It stands as a shining testament to the unwavering gratitude for these veterans and their tireless dedication to preserving freedom.
After the parade, the Unit held its annual "Early Bird" Celebration with food and fellowship. This event is a huge opportunity for the Auxiliary to increase and renew its membership.
In supporting America’s youth, Chaplain Diane Hunt took the initiative to raise funds and donate stuffed animals for the Tarrant County Adoption Day held November 17th. Thanks to Diane the judge’s bench was filled with colorful soft toys for the children to choose from! Tarrant County Adoption Day is an event dedicated to celebrating and finalizing adoptions of children into loving families within Tarrant County, Texas. It occurs annually and is organized by the Tarrant County Adoption Unit, part of the Tarrant County Juvenile Services. The event aims to raise awareness about adoption and highlight the joyous moment when children officially become part of their adoptive families. It serves as a significant day for both the children and their new families, marking the beginning of a new chapter filled with love and stability.
On November 18th, the Auxiliary Judy Davidson hosted a bake sale to continue supporting the members’ initiatives, such as Girls State. Auxiliary members and the community donate baked items and funds to help fund and expand the Texas Girls State experience! This year’s bake sale brought in $1,000 for the future event to be held in June.
Thanksgiving lunch was provided on November 23rd to its members and veterans giving thanks and praise to all while enjoying the Dallas Cowboys Football game. The Auxiliary officers donate sides and meat, while the favorite chef Ronnie Mac, Sons of the Legion (SAL) member, and husband of Treasurer Suzie McClendon, donates Turkeys and smokes all the meat.
The Auxiliary continues to help support the American Legion Riders by making a $250 donation to the "Coats for Kids" event. Supporting the Riders with brand new jackets for kids of all ages and the cold winter season.
DECEMBER
December is always busy, but it is the time of year the Auxiliary find ways to celebrate the continuous and creative approaches our members serve the community!
On December 3rd Post 379 hosted the seasonal Officer Christmas party. This occasion celebrates the officers of the American Legion, the Auxiliary, the Riders, and the Sons of the Legion. Officers who attend bring a gift for a gift exchange and a dessert. The event was lively with lots of smiles, blessings, and joy. The Christmas gift exchange is always a lively event where members can steal, exchange, and guess what items they will receive. The organizations also show their appreciation to the Presidents of each organization as well as standout volunteers who seem to support all the often and for anyone who asks. This year the Auxiliary provided a gift for Ronnie Mac who manages most of the cooking for the events. He received a $400 gift card at Boot Barn and $100 gift card at Café Cecilia this year. His favorite!
On December 9th, the Post showcased the "Toys for Tots" effort, which had many in attendance including the local Marines Squadron 82, nearby city representatives, the Boy Scouts, and Girls Scouts troupes. The event brings in thousands of items and dollars in donations to support local children having a Christmas each year. The Auxiliary served soup, sandwiches, and dessert during the occasion.
Toys for Tots is a heartwarming charitable organization that aims to bring joy and smiles to less fortunate children during the holiday season. Founded by the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve, Toys for Tots collects new, unwrapped toys from generous donors and distributes them to children in need. With the support of communities and businesses, the program ensures that every child can experience the excitement of receiving a gift and the warmth of holiday spirit. Toys for Tots not only delivers toys, but also sends a powerful message of compassion, reminding people of the importance of giving and making a positive impact in the lives of others.
Throughout the month of December, the Auxiliary promoted, fundraised, and donated over $400 to "Wreaths Across America" for wreaths to be placed at the DFW Veterans National Cemetery on December 16th. This year was the Auxiliary’s first time participating in the wreath placement at the DFW national cemetery with Sargent at Arms Molly Coyle, Faye Chambers and Mona Scarborough partaking.
“Wreaths Across America" is an annual initiative where volunteers place wreaths on the graves of veterans in cemeteries across the United States. This event, coordinated by a nonprofit organization of the same name, aims to honor, and remember the sacrifices of military personnel. It occurs each December and includes ceremonies that highlight the importance of honoring veterans and their service to the country.
New Year's celebrations are a time of joy, reflection, and anticipation for the future. They bring people together to mark the transition from one year to the next, fostering a sense of unity and hope as people embark on a fresh chapter in their lives. The New Year’s Eve Party was held on December 31st with another year come and gone. The celebration at the local Bedford Post always anticipates good friends, good food, and festivity to bring in the new year, and a great 2024!
JANUARY
In January, the Auxiliary was ready to start the new year by looking back and reflecting on all the progress made in 2023! Since there was no meeting in December, the announcement of funds raised during the end of the year events are presented, and appreciation of the Post renovations effort throughout the month of December.
Vice president Judy Davidson reported the “Toys for Tots” event was a real success! The effort brough over 1500 toys and $1,340 in donations.
A new fundraising idea came from member Michelle Burger who donated a stylish “Yellowstone” cowgirl hat to celebrate the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo with a fundraiser basket. President Sheryl donated whiskey and wine to compliment the theme and celebrate our community’s cultural events.
The Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo is an annual event known for its rich tradition of showcasing livestock, rodeo competitions, and entertainment. Beyond the competitive events, the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo offers a range of family-friendly activities such as carnival rides, shopping, and food vendors.
Overall, the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo is a celebration of Texas heritage and Western culture, attracting thousands of visitors each year. The proceeds from the basket support the Auxiliary’s Membership Campaign.
FEBRUARY
On February 4th, the Legion celebrated Auxiliary Treasurer Suzie McClendon’s 60th birthday with announcements on Facebook and hosting a spectacular party. Her husband Ronnie Mac hosted a Taco Bar dinner, and many folks came to share their love and admiration of the friendly bartender, showering her with gifts and goodies.
The Super Bowl Watch Party was held on February 11th, and everyone brought their favorite potluck dish. Treasurer Suzie McClendon shared the event on Facebook, and her husband SAL member Ronnie Mac, provided the main entree for the event. The Auxiliary, and the Post are always incredibly grateful for Ronnie Mac and Suzie’s generosity and support.
Many thanks go to Parliamentarian Michelle Birkett who oversaw Department President Holly Heatley’s homecoming dinner celebration on February 17th at the Marriott Renaissance Hotel in Dallas, TX. The celebration was a lively event with Auxiliary members from all over Texas attending with food, live entertainment, and fun all around.
In support of President Holly’s charity, The Birdwell Foundation, Unit 379 donated $500 to help continue its initiatives. The Birdwell Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting veterans and their families through various programs and initiatives. Specifically, the foundation focuses on providing therapeutic outdoor recreational activities as a means of promoting physical, mental, and emotional well-being among veterans. The Birdwell Foundation aims
to assist veterans in transitioning to civilian life and improving their overall quality of life post-service.
In celebration Chaplains Day observed in February, Chaplain Diane Hunt arranged a memorial for members and their lost loved ones by bringing their favorite dish and reminiscing about their impact and influence in the world.
Thanks to Ronnie Mac and others, the movie dramatization was played in the background while visitors looked on. The Four Chaplains, also known as the "Immortal Chaplains" or "Dorchester Chaplains," were four United States Army chaplains who sacrificed their lives during World War II to save others. They were George L. Fox (Methodist minister), Alexander D. Goode (Jewish rabbi), Clark V. Poling (Dutch Reformed Church minister), and John P. Washington (Roman Catholic priest). On February 3, 1943, the USAT Dorchester, was torpedoed by a German submarine, the Four Chaplains helped evacuate and calm the soldiers aboard, distributing life jackets and assisting in the rescue effort. When the life jackets ran out, they selflessly gave their own to other men, choosing to remain aboard the sinking ship and pray together as it went down. Their act of courage and sacrifice has been commemorated annually as a symbol of interfaith, unity and selfless service.
MARCH
1st Vice President, Judy Davidson has been committed to the Texas Girls State Program for many years. This year she recommended having a Girls State Committee from now on. This committee was formed in February with other Auxiliary members Faye Chambers, Margarita Ramos, Molly Coyle, and Susan Allen. They hosted interviews with twenty-three candidates, who were all very qualified. Discerning the candidates for the down selection was very difficult. The defining factor was if the candidate took the initiative to understand Girl State before the interviews. Out of the twenty-three candidates, fourteen of the candidates had high school sponsorship, while nine needed the financial support of an ALA Unit, each Unit can only sponsor six candidates. It is unfortunate that there are not more Unit’s in the area to help sponsor these girls from six different communities of Bedford, Colleyville, Euless, Grapevine, Hurst, and Southlake.
This is just another indicator of how our communities rely on the Auxiliary to foster the future female leaders of America.
To continue the solidarity with other Posts in the DFW area a coffee tour was held March 9th starting in Mansfield with breakfast. The event ended with dinner after the day long visit. Folks took pictures of all the various facilities and admired the effort and initiatives each Post is working towards. Unit 379 welcomed visitors with small decorative gifts and treats. Thanks to Mona Scarborough, Sheryl Frydenberg and Faye Chambers for demonstrating Unit 379’s hospitality.
News arrives about the Smokehouse Creek wildfires in the TX Panhandle, with ALA 18th District requesting help. Unit 379 answers with $1,000 in gift cards to
those affected. Treasurer Suzie McClendon arranges forty $25 gift cards from Walmart and Home Depot to be sent.
During Easter weekend, Auxiliary Treasurer Suzie McClendon, and her husband
SAL member Ronnie Mac host an Easter Luncheon at the Post with Ham, sides, and dessert supplied by members of the Auxiliary. The community is truly blessed to have Suzie and Ronnie Mac at Post 379.
APRIL
On April 20th, the American Auxiliary Unit 379 hosted the TX Girls State Orientation. The 12th, 5th, and 4th districts attended while the 379 Auxiliary members provided breakfast items of all sorts. Ann Doan from the Texas Girls State administration educates the parents about the trip and the exciting experience the girls will receive. The Texas Girls State Convention is an annual event organized by the American Legion Auxiliary for young women in high school. The convention aims to provide an immersive and educational experience focused on government and leadership. During the convention, participants engage in a mock government program where they learn about the democratic process, run for various political offices, and form legislative bodies. It is a valuable experience for young women interested in politics, public service, and community leadership.
On April 27th the 12th District Convention is held in Fort Worth, TX. President Sheryl Frydenberg, Sargent at Arms Molly Coyle and Parliamentarian Michelle Birkett representing Unit 379. The Bedford Auxiliary was honored to have its Parliamentarian Michelle Birkett elected as the 12th District President!
MAY
In keeping with the tradition, on May 4th the Auxiliary hosted their Kentucky Derby Day festivities while the horses were running. The Auxiliary members provided entrees, sides, and dessert while folks wore their “Sunday Best.” The participants have access to hobby horse racing competitions, Derby hat contests, and Kentucky Derby trivia questions where the all the winners receive wonderful prizes. The Kentucky Derby is a renowned horse racing event held annually on the first Saturday of May at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky. Some key traditions include iconic hats, bright spring dresses and dapper suits, mint juleps, and rose garland representing the ultimate prize, a tradition since 1896.
On May 16th, the Auxiliary held its elections for the oncoming year.
Congratulations to the following officers for 2024-2025! (Installation July 20th)
President: Sheryl Frydenberg
1st Vice: Judy Davidson
2nd Vice: Dena Finger
3rd Vice-membership: Jodie Chapman
Secretary: Jennifer Jones (JJ) Kearney
Treasurer: Suzie McClendon
Chaplain: Diane Hunt
Historians: Leanne Couch
Sargent-at-Arms: Molly Coyle
Executive Board: Eilleen Pollen, Faye Chambers, Peggy Warren
District 12 President: Michelle Birkett
On May 27th observing Memorial Day, Unit 379 participated in the Bluebonnet Cemetery Memorial Service in Colleyville, TX to honor those who gave their life for the Freedoms that all Americans are entitled to, and for those who are still serving and protecting this Great Nation. The Girls State Candidates and member Faye Chambers supported poppy sales, refurbished the Auxiliary Memorial Day Wreath, and served food at Post 379 luncheon. ALA Secretary J.J. Kearney and ALA Jr. member Michaela Kearney presented the Auxiliary wreath during the ceremony.
The Posts' Riders came out in great numbers providing a motorcycle escort and the Legion groups each presented a lovely wreath to those who are mourned and appreciated deeply. Every year on Memorial Day, Bluebonnet Cemetery holds a commemorative event to honor and remember the men and women who have served in the armed forces and have passed away. The cemetery, adorned with beautiful flags and flowers, becomes a solemn gathering place for families, veterans' organizations, and the wider community. The event includes a memorial service with speeches, prayers, and the playing of Taps to pay tribute to fallen soldiers. The atmosphere is one of reflection, gratitude, and remembrance as people gather to honor the sacrifices made by those who bravely served their country.
JUNE
During the month of June, the Auxiliary is once again privileged to be part of many exceptional events, and witness to the generous spirit of the other Legion groups and the HEB Community.
In the month of June, the newly elected Auxiliary Executive Board member Peggy Waring arranged for the refurbishment of the U.S. Flag disposal mailboxes. These mailboxes had to be sandblasted down and then re-painted and stenciled and can be easily seen from the busy roadway. They are truly a remarkable sight to behold.
On June 17th, as tradition, the 379 Riders escorted the Texas Girls State Candidates on their bus out of town all the way to Austin for the Girls State Convention!
On June 29th, the Post hosted a Flag Retirement Ceremony where hundreds of U.S. Flags were properly memorialized in the dedicated stone firepit located onsite at Post 379.
JULY
The Auxiliary prepares for the 20th annual Texas Department Convention! The event will be held July 11th -14th with officer Michelle Birkett will attend representing both District 12 and Unit 379.
And let us not forget one of the most enjoyable events of the year, “Christmas in July.” This occasion will be held on July 18th, and the Auxiliary will bring fellow friends and family to celebrate in the festivities.
July 20th the Auxiliary will install its newly elected officers along with providing ‘Years of Service” awards in 10-year increments. A new tradition during installation!
Throughout the year Unit 379 continues to maintain awareness of those who suffer from illness and unforeseen circumstances. Each case is considered among the Auxiliary when help or a donation is needed. Each year thousands of dollars are donated to individuals and families who had extensive expenses occur due to unforeseen circumstances. Auxiliary Unit 379 is so very fortunate to have the ability to provide financial and emotional assistance to those who need it. As the Auxiliary reflects on its members, it is recognized that life is all too short. Therefore, the group continues to persist, to offer, to serve, and to hope, so in turn they receive compassion and inspiration from the community and the country. Being true to the words "Service not Self".
Sincerely,
JJ Kearney and Leanne Couch (Digitally signed)
J.J. Kearney and Leanne Couch
ALA Unit # 379 2023-24 Co-Historians