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On Saturday, November 14, the Annual Veterans Parade rolled through Blanco. Canyon Lake High School’s Junior ROTC provided the Color Guard leading the parade of over 30 entries. Following the cadets was Post Sergeant-at-Arms Oscar Segura and the Riderless Horse. There were many, many entries, including an old 1952 pick-up truck driven by Steve Klein from Randolph-Brooks Federal Credit Union and The American Legion Riders from San Antonio. John Karger of Last Chance Forever, a rescue bird sanctuary from San Antonio, brought his majestic, bald eagle.

After the parade, the Post had a Veterans program in Bindseil Park. Elaine Tamez sang a very moving National Anthem, Past Post Commander Bruce Huguelet presented the meaning of the POW/MIA table, and Post Adjutant Donnea Simon presented the 2009 Veterans speech from The American Legion National Headquarters. The Guest of Honor was Retired Lt. Col. Chaplain Posey, who also gave a very memorable speech. The Post and Auxiliary hosted their 3rd Annual Spaghetti Dinner, serving over 100 meals to veterans and the public.

On Wednesday, November 11, at all three Blanco ISD campuses, under the continued leadership of Superintendent Dr. Buck Ford, veterans from all over Blanco County met at the middle school for the flag raising ceremony and Veteran’s Day Proclamation by Principal Jose Salazar. This was followed by an Armed Forces medley by the Blanco High School Band under the direction of David Shirk. The veterans then met at the high school where Principal Dustin Barton and the FCCLA hosted a slide show presentation and refreshments.

Following the flag raising, some of the veterans met at the elementary school for a Veteran’s Day presentation of songs by the 1st grade class. They presented the story of “Taps” and a special “Taps” rendition. All the veterans in attendance commented that it was a wonderful experience and all the activities were greatly appreciated. Other veterans met at Canyon Lake High School for their Veterans program and lunch. The JrROTC hosted the program and recognized veterans from all five branches of service, including several active duty personnel.

One veteran commented Saturday before the parade, “It’s hard to know if anyone out there still remembers us or even cares.” It was especially wonderful to see the town’s turnout for the parade and knowing that the school’s appreciation for our veterans is alive and well in Blanco!

There were two other Veterans activities the American Legion Post 352 participated in: Spring Branch-Bulverde Library and Johnson City Library posting of Colors. Both libraries had an outstanding program followed by refreshments.

The American Legion Memorial Highway Post 352 would like to express their gratitude to all of the citizens who came out and supported the Veteran’s Parade and Spaghetti Dinner.