SAN ANTONIO – (Aug. 27, 2022) – Servicemembers, and their families, assigned to the Joint Base San Antonio Soldier Recovery Unit (SRU) were treated to a day out at Six Flags Fiesta Texas sponsored by donations made to The American Legion’s Operation Comfort Warriors (OCW) program.
Approximately 150 guests were invited to a picnic luncheon along with complimentary parking and entry into the theme park.
Members of the American Legion Family were on hand to greet the warriors and to show their appreciation.
Representing the various posts throughout the Department of Texas 20th District were Past District Cmdr. Robert Masten of American Legion Business and Professional Post 10, District Vice Cmdr. Allen Iott of Alamo Post 2. 1st Vice Cmdr. Henry Creech of W.M. Randolph Post 593, Cmdr. Burrell Parmer of Fred Brock Post 828, Unit 539 Auxiliary President Linda Doege, Shirley Masten of Auxiliary Unit 593 and Annie Iott of Auxiliary Unit 2.
According to Masten, who has been supporting OCW for 11 years, it means everything to support servicemembers and their families in recovery.
“They really enjoyed being here,” said Masten. “The numbers have deceased, which is a good thing due to the ending of conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan.”
The day’s event was amazing, said Army 1st Lt. Alexander Boyd, SRU detachment commander.
“Everyone I have seen today is having a great time especially compared to the day-to-day routine regarding their medical history and treatment,” said Boyd. “It’s a great break for them. Special thanks to The American Legion.”
Joining Boyd was SRU Command Sgt. Maj. Deneise McFarlane.
“This is a great event which provided our servicemembers an opportunity to get out of the barracks and to strengthen camaraderie,” said McFarlane, whose unit has approximately 110 servicemembers in recovery. “We greatly appreciate our sponsors, especially The American Legion, for allowing us to be here, and we look forward to attending again next year.”
OCW is just one example of how the American Legion Family gives back to veterans and active-duty servicemembers.
Few programs illustrate The American Legion’s commitment to wounded military personnel more than OCW. It is a prime example of the organization’s dedication to care for those who are recovering from injuries or illnesses sustained while protecting America.
