Rockport-Fulton American Legion Receives Generous Boost for New Building Fund

In a heartfelt display of community support, the Rockport-Fulton American Legion Post 363 received a special check presentation during a recent fundraiser at Doggone Brewery / Winery on the Bay.

The presentation was part of an evening celebrating local artist Marcy Grace and her new video release. What began as a standard local fundraiser took on deeper meaning when Bonnie Jean Randall, Adjutant of American Legion Post 363, learned the proceeds would directly support the Post’s long-awaited new building fund.

“We have ducks here available for adoption, and when I started that, Dan said that he was doing a special presentation... for a local 501(c)(3) that evening,” Randall explained. “I did not know it at the time, but it was specifically for the American Legion and going towards our new building fund.”

The current American Legion building, constructed in the 1950s, has weathered multiple storms, including the devastating impact of Hurricane Harvey. While the structure still stands, it is in urgent need of replacement. Efforts to build a new facility gained momentum after Harvey and have continued steadily since.

Randall, a veteran herself, emphasized the vital role veterans play throughout the Rockport-Fulton community.

“Veterans have signed a check,” she said. “We’re willing to give everything we’ve got to make sure that we have... the ability to vote, our children being able to go to school, people being able to be what they want to be.”

She pointed out that veterans are deeply embedded in the fabric of daily life in the area:

• Owning and operating local businesses

• Serving as volunteers in numerous organizations

• Working as teachers and administrators in local schools

• Holding positions on the school board

Randall herself serves on the school board while continuing to teach, balancing multiple roles dedicated to community service.

When asked about the importance of giving back, Randall stressed the need to support local youth and families.

“My job, not just as a veteran, but as just a human being that cares about people, I need them to be able to have access to activities [and] education,” she said. The Legion and its members actively support programs such as fishing events for kids and are exploring new family-oriented initiatives, including a potential 5K/2K run similar to other popular local events.

“Kids need to know that what they have is valuable, and people are willing to make it happen for them,” Randall added.

The recent check presentation represents more than just financial support; it highlights the strong partnerships between local businesses, artists, and veteran organizations in Rockport-Fulton. These collaborations help ensure that those who served continue to have a place to gather while strengthening community programs for generations to come.

The Rockport-Fulton American Legion Post 363 extends its gratitude to Doggone Brewery / Winery on the Bay, Mercy Grace, and all who contributed to this meaningful fundraiser.

In the photo: L-Dan Parker, Bonni Jean-Randall, Vince Shoemaker