The History of post #294
Missouri city, Texas
Founding and Early Years
American Legion Post 294, Missouri City, Texas received its Temporary Charter from National Headquarters, Indianapolis, Indiana on February 10, 2006. The Charter was granted to founding members Roger J. Rideau (*), Thomas L. Gaussian, Frank M. Pina, Joseph Lobo, Benign Araiza, Vernon E. Johnson, Edward Moran, Jimmy L. Brandenburg, Leon Branon, Charles C. Carrell, Mickey R. Windborne, Shawn L. Lobo, Tony Workman, James G. Norco, III and Alvin J. Tory.
Tony Workman (Maj, Ret. USMC) was Post 294 first Commander. Tony Workman was widely known for his participation and helping many veteran causes in the community. Soon after his death around February 10, 2010, Post 294 renamed the unit in honor of Tony, and it is now called the William Tony Workman American Legion Post 294.
William Tony Workman American Legion Post 294 has many honors. The post participated in a very successful Veteran’s Day Gala and fund raiser, November 11, 2011. The unit exceeded its membership goals in 2005, 2006, 2008, 2009 and 2013. November 11, 2018, the unit visited the Landon Ridge Sugar Land Assisted Living and Memory Care to recognize and celebrate 20 Veterans to commemorate their uniformed service. The Post is always a consistent participant of Missouri City’s annual Christmas Parade too. Most recently the unit dedicated the Missouri City American Legion Park in 2018 and a Veteran’s Monument at Missouri City Hall, November 11, 2021.
Post 294 is also a supporter of The Warriors Refuge in West Columbia, Texas. Warriors Refuge offers shelter, counseling, resources, and training for veterans. Post 294, its members and citizens of Missouri City have supported this much needed facility financially and with donations of clothing, aTV and memorabilia for the nascent museum they have on site.
William Tony Workman American Legion Post 294 Honor Guard most recently provided Flag and dedication ceremonies at the American Legion Park 2018 and the Missouri City Veteran’s Memorial 2019 and 2021. During 2020 the unit did take around a six-month break dealing with the COVID-19 National Pandemic and not a single member was lost.
Members of the All Glory and Honor perform 7 to 12 Funerals or more for Veterans all over the Greater Houston area. Leadership in All Glory and Honor are strong and active members of William Tony Workman American Legion Post 294. They dedicate their time and services to honor all fallen Service members and help surviving family members. All Glory Honor Guard is a private foundation in Missouri City, TX, which was founded in 2017.
(* Founding member, Roger J. Rideau was Timothy Taite’s assistant Principal and Principal at Pershing Junior High School 1978-1980. He put the fear of God in Timothy Taite).
Recent Developments
In recent years, Post #294 has continued to adapt and evolve, finding new ways to serve veterans and the community. The post has embraced technology to stay connected with members and has increased its outreach efforts to younger veterans from more recent conflicts. The commitment to service, camaraderie, and patriotism remains as strong as ever.
KEY EVENTS AND MILESTONES
- 1946: Chartering of the post.
- 1950s-1970s: Expansion of community and youth programs.
- 1980s-1990s: Increased advocacy for veterans’ benefits and rights.
- 2000s-Present: Adaptation to modern challenges and continued community service.
Post #294 remains an active and vital part of Missouri City, Texas, providing support, fellowship, and a voice for veterans in the community.