HISTORY
American Legion Auxiliary Unit 379 2024-2025
JULY
Located in Bedford, TX, the summer of 2024 started with the Auxiliary's election of new officers. On July 20th just after the Department convention, Dallas based
Department President Holly Heatly presided over the installation
The Unit welcomed the following ladies in their new/continuing positions during the elections held in May.
Sheryl Frydenberg- President and 12th District Historian
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
Faye Chambers, Peggy Waring, Eilleen Pollen -Executive Board:
Michelle Birkett- Parliamentarian and 12th District President
The Department convention celebrated 20 years of success in Austin July 11th14th with Parliamentarian Michelle Birkett 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 electronically drafted scrapbook at the Department Convention, which included a QR code to access the document by computer or mobile phone for its members. Unit 379 hopes to continue the tradition and educate other Units in how to do this!
In 2024 Unit 379 received first place for its submittal of the Auxiliary’s History Book and third place for the Unit’s Scrapbook while at the Department of Texas Convention!
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 Sharon Phelps 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 18th 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!
AUGUST
The Unit’s general meeting reconvened in August, with a review of events occurring during the summer months, since the last meeting was held in midJune. Unit 379 does not hold a July meeting due to Department Convention where Unit 379 officers support more than one leadership role at the Unit, District, and Division levels in the DFW area, and there is much to prepare for.
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 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.
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. Vice-President Judy Davidson and Executive Board Member Faye Chambers shared the events of Texas Girls State held June 15th—21st at Texas Lutheran University in Seguin. With 1600 attendees in Austin, Unit 379 sent a record number of 21 coming from Grapevine, L.D. Bell, Colleyville Heritage, and Southlake Carroll high schools. 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. Vice-President Judy
Davidson discussed what opportunities the program provides and how she coordinates each year with the local high school counselors.
Some of the Girls State participants attended the Memorial Day Service, where they handed out poppies and raised $123.00. After the service, the girls helped serve and clean up lunch at the Post. Additionally, a few girls organized a car wash in the parking lot, supervised by Faye, to raise funds. As a result of these activities, Unit 379 gained two new Senior Members from Girls State.
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.
During the meeting Treasurer Suzie McClendon requested the Unit make its continual $500 contribution to the Euless Fire Station #3548 Annual Golf Tourney. Scheduled for late August, it supports local 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.
August began with the 1st ever Art Market & Retro Gaming in Proctor Hall arranged by Auxiliary member Margarita “Mar” Ramos. The Sunday Art and retro-gaming event raised $150 in donations.
On August 25th during the Euless Fire Station #3548 Annual Golf Tourney golf tournament, Auxiliary members Dena Frayer, Judy Davidson, Peggy Waring, and JJ Kearney coordinated a raffle table at The Star Golf Club in Euless raising a total $975. Vice President Jodie motions for half of proceeds go to membership fundraising.
During each fund-raising event, the officers vote as to how the funds will be collected and earmarked. Earlier in the year on Memorial Day, $401 was raised to benefit members who need assistance with affording their memberships and offset the increasing cost.
To help keep the Unit’s membership informed, the members discussed various operational matters including technical setup for remote meetings, improved communication, and the potential use of Zoom for both executive board and general meetings. Some new equipment will be added to improve the audio/visual capabilities. Starting in September, Secretary JJ Kearney and Leanne Couch help set up and host Zoom meetings to present the meetings remotely for those who cannot attend in person.
At this point membership is just short of its goal of 385 members for 2024- 2025!
Fall is coming and that means the Unit starts preparing for its Annual Cancer
Benefit to be held on the weekend of 10/4-10/6. It includes a pancake breakfast, basket raffle, and popper purchases.
SEPTEMBER
Auxiliary Chaplain Diane Hunt works continuously with “Well Check” calls for 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. The last meal in August raised $351 towards memberships, and Judy’s Wednesday karaoke meal raised $140 towards Cancer. These are just some examples of the weekly contributions the Auxiliary members make towards the Unit’s various program objectives.
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 signups. The annual event occurs on 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 and coordinators Sheryl Frydenberg, Mona Scarborough, Peggy Waring, Faye Chambers and Judy Davidson 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. The Big Popper auctioned for $700 this year, the most ever!
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-dyed 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 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 second-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 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 is 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.
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.
On November 23rd, the Auxiliary Judy Davidson and Faye Chambers 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 28th 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 $500 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 was filled with meaningful events that brought the community together through acts of service, celebration, and connection.
On December 8th, members participated in Jingle Jangle, held at the Bob Dunkin Convention Center to celebrate the new base in Granbury, TX. The event was held in the afternoon, with volunteers arriving before to assist with the setup. Thanks to a generous donation of 1,000 cupcakes, the celebration was festive and well-received. The volunteer support was especially important given the size of the venue.
On December 14th, 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 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.
On December 22nd 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 offered a festive and relaxing moment for leaders and team members to celebrate the season together. 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.
Throughout the month of December, the Auxiliary promoted, fundraised, and donated over $300 to "Wreaths Across America" for 17 wreaths to be placed at the DFW Veterans National Cemetery on December 13th.
“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. On December 31st, the year closed with a lively New Year’s Eve Potluck. The Auxiliary decorated the venue, and a great band provided live music. Sheryl brought black-eyed peas, while the group called for more side dishes to complete the holiday meal. The event provided a joyful send-off to the year.
JANUARY
In January, the Auxiliary was ready to start the new year by reflecting on the progress made in 2024! Since there was no meeting in December, the announcement of funds raised during the end of the year occurred. In doing this, membership then assessed how to execute the initiatives for the new year and support Post 379 and the other organization’s initiatives to continue the synergies in helping the community.
Vice president Judy Davidson reported the “Toys for Tots” event was a real success! The effort brought over 4000 toys and $1,500 in donations, with more toys and donations coming in that will be earmarked for the 2025 session.
Parliamentarian Michelle requested the Unit consider donating to the Knights of Columbus who donated $500 to the Cancer Fund and to SAL for their programs for the year, Michelle makes a motion to donate $750 from the Bingo fund towards their events with everyone in favor.
Unit 379 has a great relationship with the fellow Legion organizations, together the Post is one of the most prolific in DFW.
To enhance the Unit’s membership numbers and support other initiatives, the Auxiliary decides to approve a budget for the Unit’s own direct phone number (817-770-0505) using a company called Freedom Voice, a phone service in which messages can be left for each officer and the project they conduct. With this service, Sheryl Frydenberg and the membership team were able to interact
with folks over the age of 76 who may need membership fee assistance and take advantage of the automatic sponsorship Unit 379 offers.
FEBRUARY
In February, the Auxiliary highlighted several impactful initiatives and celebrated local youth achievements.
Nicole Namy of Colleyville delivered a presentation on her Girls State experience, sharing how she overcame her fear of public speaking and gained confidence by running for office and participating in public performances. She connected with girls from both large cities and small towns and expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity. Nicole was recognized as a Department finalist and awarded two scholarships, including a $5,000 Samsung scholarship.
Faye Chambers provided an update on the "Pay It Forward" campaign for 2025. She reported that last summer’s car wash raised $412 and shared that she had successfully drafted a donation letter, resulting in two business sponsors contributing $1,200 to sponsor two Girls State delegates. Interest in the program expanded, with seven unsolicited candidates from Southlake and one from a charter school expressing interest. She reminded members that only six girls per school are eligible, and registration would open from February 12 to May 1, 2025, for high school juniors.
Faye also noted that Apple TV was producing a documentary on Texas Bluebonnet Girls State, with interviews underway. Additionally, a Legionnaire expressed interest in donating to support the program.
A new initiative was launched in collaboration with Keller’s Junior Rotary Club to support ShelterBox, a nonprofit organization providing emergency shelter to
disaster victims. Each ShelterBox, costing $1,000, can house up to 10 people and is designed to last five months. Proceeds from this initiative were planned to be turned in at the Rotary’s April 8th banquet.
Finally, Parliamentarian Michelle Birkett raised concern about the Food Pantry at the Joint Reserve Base in Fort Worth, which was running low on supplies. She proposed placing a donation box and including a request for contributions in the Auxiliary newsletter to help support the base community.
MARCH
March was a productive month marked by high achievement, community engagement, and growing momentum for upcoming programs.
Interest in Girls State continued to grow, with private schools joining the list of inquiries. Faye Chambers reported conducting 28 interviews with standout students, all demonstrating leadership and vision for the future.
1st Vice President, Judy Davidson has been committed to the Texas Girls State Program for many years. Last year she recommended having a Girls State Committee from now on. This committee was formed in February of 2024 with other Auxiliary members Faye Chambers, Margarita Ramos, Molly Coyle, and Susan Allen. This year, they hosted interviews with the candidates, who were all very qualified. Discerning the candidates for the down selection continued to be very difficult. The defining factor was if the candidate took the initiative to understand Girl State before the interviews.
Some of the candidates typically have high school sponsorship, while many need the financial support of an ALA Unit, each Unit can only sponsor six candidates from each school. This is just another indicator of how communities rely on the Auxiliary to foster the future female leaders of America. Of the 22 selected participants, 10 were sponsored by the Auxiliary, and 12 were sponsored by HEB ISD.
Community and business sponsors included: Deluxe Roofing for $1,200 to sponsor two candidates, Mason Dallas sponsoring one candidate, and Alexander Medical Spa sponsoring one candidate.
Unit 379 continues to work through its membership goals while adjusting to changes in the community. President Sheryl reported continued success with the voice messaging system at 817-770-0505, which allowed for improved communication and feedback. Over 20 messages were received, many from senior members aged 76 and older. The system helped verify active members, update emails, and identify deceased members or returned mail. Additional emails collected during this process were added to the monthly newsletter distribution list. A change in Junior membership dues was initiated. JJ was tasked with drafting a letter to inform parents of the dues increase, which would raise Junior membership to $10 starting in 2026.
To continue the solidarity with other Posts in the DFW area, Unit 379 participated in the annual coffee tour held March 15th starting in Haltom City 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 with. 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.
As catastrophic events continue around the country due to weather and other unforeseen circumstances that leave people without shelter or supplies, the Auxiliary continues its efforts to support ShelterBox, a nonprofit disaster relief organization. Junior member Caitlin Martin hosted a Skyline Chili Spaghetti Dinner, raising $121 toward the cause. Another dinner, featuring a Potato and
Salad Bar, was scheduled for March 26th, with all proceeds designated for ShelterBox. Vice President Judy amended a motion to donate $200 from the Bingo fund to Keller Junior Rotary in support of their ShelterBox partnership. The motion passed unanimously.
APRIL
On April 12th the 12th District Convention is held in Fort Worth, TX. President Sheryl Frydenberg, Sargent at Arms Molly Coyle Parliamentarian Michelle
Birkett, and Chaplain Diane Hunt and members representing Unit 379 attend to vote. The Bedford Auxiliary was honored to have its Parliamentarian Michelle
Birkett elected as the 12th District President!
During Easter weekend on April 18th and 19th, Auxiliary members offer a seafood and mac n cheese meal with dessert for a Spring Fling event. While 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. All proceeds from the weekend go to Cancer.
Unit 379 continued to achieve outstanding results in membership growth and performance, solidifying its position as one of the leading units in the state.
At this time Membership Chairs Sheryl and Michelle reported that Unit 379 became the second-largest unit in Texas, trailing the top spot by only 20 members. The unit maintained its position as 1st place in objective performance within the 12th District and held 2nd place in the 1st Division for the same metric.
At the Department level, out of 243 units, Unit 379 was ranked 46th in fulfillment and proudly remained in 2nd place in members statewide, just behind Midland.
During the April general meeting, Unit 379 welcomed Lauren Kelley, Sergeant-atArms and the Post’s Service Officer, as a guest speaker. Lauren presented
veteran support initiatives and highlighted the importance of the “Be the One” program, which encourages veterans to seek help and emphasizes suicide prevention through peer connection and community outreach. She shared her collaboration with Chaplain Diane Hunt in conducting Buddy Checks, a proactive outreach effort to connect with veterans, check on their well-being, and offer support. Together, they engaged mental health organizations to speak to members about available resources and strategies for managing both mental and physical health, including gut health.
Lauren also introduced Mission 22, an organization that supports veterans through resources such as personal growth coaching and educational materials like the children’s book “No Such Thing as Dragons”. The discussion also addressed how to effectively respond in times of crisis, including how to fundraise and budget for urgent assistance.
Unit members Tyrone Hunter and Michael Cruz, both with VA backgrounds, were acknowledged for their continued support in helping veterans enroll and navigate VA services. The presentation served as a powerful reminder of the ongoing need for compassion, connection, and practical support for veterans and their families.
Finally at the end of the General meeting held in April, Unit 379 took a heartfelt moment to honor 1st Vice President Judy Davidson for her unwavering dedication and service. Despite undergoing cancer treatment, Judy continued to actively pursue and support numerous Auxiliary projects, demonstrating extraordinary strength, resilience, and commitment to the mission.
Her leadership and determination inspired fellow members and set a powerful example of service above self. The unit expressed deep gratitude and admiration for Judy's contributions during such a challenging time, recognizing her as a true pillar of the organization.
In preparation for Officer elections, the officers hosted an informational meeting on the evening of April 28th to educate members about the roles and responsibilities of Auxiliary officers. The purpose of the meeting was to encourage leadership engagement and clarify expectations for current and prospective officers. A summary of the officer’s roles was also distributed via electronic messaging, providing members with accessible reference material ahead of the meeting.
MAY
On the morning of May 4th, the American Auxiliary Unit 379 hosted the TX Girls State Orientation. Many of the DFW 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. There is also a T.V. raffle during the orientation with 150 tickets going for $5 to support the Girls State program and its expenses.
In keeping with tradition, that same afternoon, the Auxiliary hosted their Kentucky Derby Day festivities while the horses were running during the 150th celebration. 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 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 15th, the Auxiliary held its elections for the oncoming year.
Congratulations to the following officers for 2025-2026! (Installation 7/19/25)
President: Sheryl Frydenberg and 12th District Historian
1st Vice: Judy Davidson
2nd Vice: Vacant
3rd Vice-membership: Jennifer Crane
Secretary: Jennifer Jones (JJ) Kearney
Treasurer: Suzie McClendon
Chaplain: Diane Hunt
Historians: Leanne Couch
Sargent-at-Arms: Molly Coyle
Executive Board: Faye Chambers, Mona Scarborough, Peggy Waring
Parliamentarian: Michelle Birkett and 12th District President
On May 26th 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. ALA Executive board member Faye Chambers and granddaughter ALA junior member Annorah Rigsby 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.
The Texas Girls State Convention annual event organized by the American Legion Auxiliary for young women in high school, was held June 15th – June 21st. 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 various political offices, and form legislative bodies. It is a valuable experience for young women interested in politics, public service, and community leadership.
On June 15th, 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! This year a new record of 22 girls attended Girls State with the help of Unit 379. There were 6 students from Trinity H.S., 6 from L.D. Bell, 6 from Southlake Carroll, 1 from Grapevine, 2 from Colleyville Heritage and 1 from Collegiate Academy of Birdville ISD. The 379 membership is so proud of the hard work Faye Chambers and Judy Davidson have put in to make this happen!
Judy expressed plans to organize a Girls State alumni reunion in the future, where former participants would be invited to reconnect and share their experiences and speak on topics to provide insight and inspiration.
JULY
The Auxiliary prepares for the 21st 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 17th, and the Auxiliary will bring fellow friends and family to celebrate in the festivities.
July 19th the Auxiliary will install its newly elected officers along with providing ‘Years of Service” awards in 10-year increments. Carrying on a recent tradition during installation starting last year!
Throughout the year, Auxiliary Unit 379 remained committed to supporting individuals facing illness and unforeseen hardships. Each case was thoughtfully reviewed by the Auxiliary to determine the appropriate level of support or financial assistance. Over the course of the year, the unit donated thousands of dollars to individuals and families burdened by unexpected expenses.
Unit 379 expressed gratitude for the ability to offer both emotional and financial relief during times of need. As members reflected on the fragility of life, they reaffirmed their commitment to serve, give, and uplift others, drawing inspiration and compassion from both the community and the country. Their efforts continued to embody the Auxiliary’s guiding motto: “Service, not Self.”
Sincerely,
JJ Kearney and Leanne Couch (Digitally signed)
J.J. Kearney and Leanne Couch
ALA Unit # 379 2024-25 Co-Historians
