We’re just connecting the dots
WINTER TEXAN Volume 10 • Issue 9 December 11, 2024
Your Connection to the Rio Grande Valley
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I think you will agree with me that nothing says Christmas and the holidays like Toys for Tots. An official mission of the Marine Corps Reserves, Toys for Tots combines the gratitude we feel for members of our military with the joy we experience, knowing children who might otherwise have no gifts under the tree will receive a doll, a football, an art set, race cars, or a beloved stuffed animal. Ric’s cover story in this issue touched my heart. I want to thank all of you who donate to Toys for Tots and to so many other organizations that bring joy to children in the Rio Grande Valley. There are only 20 more days in 2024. Although things are hectic around my office and around the Valley, I’m just revving up for all the fun awaiting us in 2025. I hope you will take advantage of holiday happenings across the Valley, from the Posada in McAllen to the festivities on South Padre Island. Look through our calendar of events carefully so you don’t miss any of them. We’re just connecting the dots…
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VFW Post 2410 has a rich and long history of serving veterans from the World War I era to veterans of the generations that followed. The VFW Post 2410 is located on the Harlingen and San Benito boundary line and was established in 1939. Post Commander Trey Villela (right) unfurls the flag of his post, established to serve veterans living in Harlingen and San Benito.
Harlingen VFW Post Stands Test of Time
by Ric Cavazos
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he Veterans of Foreign Wars post on the Harlingen/San Benito line saw its first veteran on the eve of World War II and got firmly established in the aftermath of the great war. The 80-year-old-plus facility is roomy enough. It includes long tables and chairs tucked in and ready for patrons when they start streaming in to enjoy comradeship. A bar stocked with cold beers also awaits. This, in VFW jargon, is called a canteen, which is a bar and entertainment area where members and their guests can relax, play games, and enjoy drinks. It’s an important source of revenue to keep VFW posts afloat. A VFW post like the one numbered 2410 in Harlingen/San Benito is more than just
the kinship shared amongst veterans of different generations and eras. The storage area at Post 2410 is being utilized as a staging ground to gather and distribute donations of toys to children in need throughout Cameron County. It’s all part of the Toys for Tots program administered by the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve. “There are some expensive toys in here,” Post Commander Trey Villela said. “Lots of kids will be getting some really nice toys.” Seeking Help The holiday toy drive and distribution are just one piece of the community service Post 2410 does every year. The post is also involved in supporting area food pantries and local clothing drives. Its core mission CONTINUED ON PAGE 2