AUSTIN, Texas – (July 10, 2026) – Legionnaire Mary Lange of Hale-Combest American Legion Post 315 in Wylie, Texas, was recognized as the Legionnaire of the Year by Department Commander Richard Huntley during the 107th Annual Convention of the American Legion Department of Texas, held at the Renaissance Austin Hotel.

The Legionnaire of the Year Award recognizes a member of the Legion who has demonstrated exceptional service and dedication to the organization and their community.

Selection criteria typically include involvement in post, district, department and national programs, as well as contributions to the community.

The American Legion is the largest U.S. veterans organization with nearly 2 million members in more than 12,000 posts across the nation and in foreign countries. It was chartered by Congress in 1919,

The American Legion is dedicated to the motto of “Veterans Strengthening America.”

Legionnaires accomplish this through the organization’s four founding pillars of mentoring youth and sponsoring wholesome community programs, advocating patriotism and honor, promoting a strong national security, and continued devotion to servicemembers and veterans.