The American Legion Howard Gardner Post 85 is hosting a remarkable event in Palestine, Texas, to commemorate Veterans Day. This multi-faceted celebration includes a breakfast, a parade, and a captivating car and truck show, all designed to pay tribute to the brave men and women who have served our nation.

Uniting the Community in Patriotic Splendor

A Hearty Breakfast to Fuel the Day

The festivities kick off with a delectable breakfast, served from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the National Guard Armory. This hearty meal sets the stage for the day's events, providing attendees with the sustenance they need to fully immerse themselves in the patriotic celebrations.

A Parade Honoring Our Veterans

At 10 a.m., the parade steps off, showcasing the community's unwavering support for its veterans. Participants can register for the parade at the Palestine Visitor Center or by contacting Brian Alston, the commander of the American Legion, at 903-948-6931. This vibrant procession promises to be a moving tribute to those who have dedicated their lives to protecting our freedoms.

A Showcase of Automotive Artistry

Alongside the parade, the car and truck show takes center stage from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Senior Activity Center parking lot. This event is open to a diverse array of vehicles, from antique treasures to modern-day marvels, as well as four-wheel drive and under-construction categories. Participants can enter their prized possessions for a $20 fee until 2 p.m., with plaques awarded for the Best of Show and People's Choice at 3 p.m. The Gist family, owners of Texas Red Dirt Productions, have taken the reins in organizing this captivating automotive showcase.

The Soundtrack of Patriotism

Adding to the festive atmosphere, the local band Texas Tribe, featuring Billy Martin, Paul Fulgham, Carl Mitchell, Emily Capps, Dustin London, and Mark Tang, will perform during both the parade and the car and truck show. Their rousing tunes will undoubtedly infuse the event with a spirited and patriotic ambiance.

Giving Back to Those Who Serve

The car and truck show serves a dual purpose, as the proceeds will fund care packages for deployed troops and veterans through the local nonprofit organization, Pride of America. Founded in 2016 by Stefani Gist, the organization initially started sending care packages to her younger brother and his fellow soldiers. Over time, it has grown to support a vast network of service members, with over 3,200 care packages delivered to date.

Reaching Out to Those in Need

The care packages, which cost $24.75 to ship and contain a range of items from chocolates and cookies to baby wipes, are a lifeline for those who may not have the resources to send them themselves. The organization also delivers care packages to former soldiers at a Veterans Affairs facility, each costing $50. To request a care package, individuals can email the soldier's full name and APO (Army Post Office) or FPO (Fleet Post Office) to carepackagesforheroes@gmail.com.

A Call to Action

Kevin Gist, the co-founder of Pride of America, emphasizes the importance of community involvement, stating, "It's been kind of slow. We are eagerly awaiting for people to reach out to us." This call to action underscores the organization's desire to connect with more individuals and families in need of support for their loved ones serving in the military.The Palestine Senior Center, located at 200 M. Church St., serves as the hub for this remarkable event. For more information, interested parties can contact Kevin Gist at 832-738-5275.