On May 17, 2024, American Legion leadership from Sesquicentennial Post 592 and Fred Brock Post 828 participated in the 3rd Annual Armed Forces Day Celebration held at the Main Exchange parking lot.

An opening ceremony was held with the colors being presented by Cole High School’s Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC) cadets followed by the guest speaker, U.S. Army Col. Will B. Freds, deputy commander, Joint Base San Antonio and 502nd Air Base Wing.

“I am first and foremost thankful to be in a country that honors their servicemembers,” said Freds. “They understand the necessity of a profession that can manage the violence that is necessary at times to ensure liberty and protect the democratic principles that are the lifeblood of our nation."

Freds, a 1992 alum of Indiana Boys State, joined Post 592 during the event. His son, Jackson, will be attending Texas Boys State in June.

According to Post Commander Burrell Parmer of Fred Brock Post 828, being at the event was very beneficial.

“Being amongst veterans and veteran support organizations is always great,” said Parmer, who serves on the City of San Antonio’s Veterans Advisory Commission for District 2. “We were able to talk with a number of veterans and active-duty personnel about the importance of The American Legion and why they should join.”

Armed Forces Day was established on May 20, 1950, by President Harry S. Truman. The theme of the first Armed Forces Day was “Teamed for Defense,” and it had a three-fold mission.

First, to celebrate and recognize all Americans serving in uniform, as well as those who had served before. Second, to bring citizens closer to their military by hosting base open houses and public displays of new military technology. Finally, to promote the unity of the military services established in the National Security Act of 1947.