SAN ANTONIO – (May 1, 2022) – Members of the military volunteer for service, and once that service is complete, many continue to volunteer and look out for the welfare of their fellow comrades by being a member of The American Legion.
This was evident during the Department of Texas 20th District Spring Convention held at Alamo Post 2 on April 23, where Legionnaire Garnel “Al” Alford, commander of Fred Brock Post 828 was wheeled into the meeting. Alford, a past 20th District commander, suffered a stroke earlier in the year.
Alford, a 2022 – 2023 candidate for state vice commander, spoke to the district regarding his condition and his commitment to continuing to serve The American Legion.
Afterwards, Legionnaire Paul Goymerac of William M. Randolph Post 593 in Converse, Texas, who is a director of the American Legion Riders and Post 593’s immediate past commander, approached Legionnaire Marcellus Hutchinson of Post 828 to offer Alford the use of an electric wheelchair.
“Any veteran deserves better equipment, and I knew we had something to help him,” said Goymerac, a retired Army colonel who has been a member of The American Legion for 13 years. “I received that chair two months ago from a Navy veteran and we gave it to a member who needed it. When she passed away a month ago, they returned it for someone else to use. Perfect timing.”
Goymerac has known Alford for six years, beginning when Alford was commander of the 20th District.
“It's our mission to help veterans and if we are not willing to support other veterans, then we shouldn't claim we are there for veterans,” said Goymerac. “We should seek out those who need help, not wait for them to approach us.”
On April 27, Legionnaires from Post 828 visited with Alford to deliver the electric wheelchair and conduct landscaping at the residence.
“I am truly elated by the members of Post 828 who have assisted me and I’m proud to be their commander,” said Alford, a retired Air Force lieutenant colonel and the Department of Texas’ historian. “I really want to thank Paul Goymerac for his support and for being a true Legionnaire in my time of need. Having this electric chair will make it easier for me to move around my home. This is really fantastic!”
Fred Brock Post 828 is celebrating its 75th anniversary and is hosting several events and activities which will culminate with a diamond anniversary dinner in October 2022.
