Consider the dedication of a community cornerstone. The Hurst-Euless-Bedford American Legion Post 379 Plaque stands as a testament to service.
This isn’t just any marker. It represents a legacy of veterans and community engagement. The Hurst-Euless-Bedford American Legion Post 379 has a rich history.
In 1963, Omer Carrothers, superintendent of the Bedford School System, initiated the post’s creation. He gathered local veterans to discuss the idea. A year later, Omer and nineteen others met at Stonegate Elementary School. They planned how to bring the post to life.
The post received its temporary charter on October 1, 1964. Early meetings were held at the Bedford Boys Ranch activity center. In 1966, members rented a building on Highway 10 in Hurst. By March 2, 1967, the Hurst-Euless-Bedford American Legion Post 379 received its permanent charter. Omer Carrothers was elected as Commander. William Upton became the Adjutant.
The Hurst-Euless-Bedford American Legion Post 379 purchased a building in 1969. It was located at 336 W. Hurst Boulevard in Hurst. This was across from the Kelly-Moore paint factory.
Memorial Day services began in 1969. Post 379 collaborated with Hurst VFW Post 4695 at Bluebonnet Hills Cemetery in Colleyville. VFW Post 4695 was later replaced by Airport Cities VFW Post 10454.
The Sons of the American Legion Squadron 379 was chartered in 1983. The American Legion Auxiliary Unit 379 was re-chartered in 1986. The American Legion Riders Chapter 379 was re-chartered in 2016. Impressively, Post, Unit, and Squadron 379 are the second largest in their categories at the Department level.
During the late 1970s, Post 379 acquired property at its current location. Construction on the current building started in 1982. The American Legion Magazine recognized Post 379 as the post of the month in August 1984.
TEXALPA began presenting the Dan Fallon Award in 2008. This award recognizes the best Post website in the Department of Texas. Deborah McKee became the first female Commander for Post 379 in 2009.
Trey Arnold’s Flag Retirement Pit was named the 2015 Longhorn Council Eagle Scout Project of the Year. Post 379 celebrated its golden anniversary on March 2, 2017.
Isaac Taylor was named the 2017 Department of Texas National High School Oratorical Winner. Joey Campbell was named the 2017 Department of Texas Eagle Scout of the Year. Jacob Groninga was named the 2021 Department of Texas National High School Oratorical Winner.
The dedication ceremony for the Texas Historical Plaque occurred on March 19, 2022. Many local dignitaries attended including Congresswoman Beth Van Duyne, Representative Laura Hill, and Mayors Henry Wilson, Linda Martin, and Michael Boyter.
Today, the Hurst-Euless-Bedford American Legion Post 379 continues to serve veterans and the community. The post offers hall rentals to non-members. All proceeds support the Legion Family’s projects. The Hurst-Euless-Bedford American Legion Post 379 Plaque is a symbol of dedication. It honors those who have served. It also represents a commitment to community.