Governor Greg Abbott spoke at the Texas Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Mid-Winter conference, recognizing service members who served overseas.
“We wouldn’t be America today without those willing to fight and defend our freedom and our country across the entire globe,” said Governor Abbott. “It is essential to the future of our country that Texans at every age level know who you are and what it is that you did. As long as I’m your Governor, you have a Governor who has the back of Texas veterans.”
The event included VFW State Commander Dave Walden, VFW Officer of the Day Willie Keller, VFW State Chaplain Jim Russell, and other veterans and advocates.
Governor Abbott thanked those who have served abroad and stated that their efforts have helped make Texas home to over 1.7 million veterans and active military personnel. He noted that he signed House Joint Resolution 133, making a franchise tax exemption for veteran-owned businesses permanent. He also designated $50 million for ibogaine clinical trials, which may benefit veterans’ health.
The Office of Texas Governor Greg Abbott leads executive functions in state government from its main offices in Austin at the State Insurance Building, focusing on economic development, job growth, education enhancement, border security initiatives such as Operation Lone Star, and community programs (official website). Since his election in 2014, Greg Abbott has led these efforts statewide across Texas.
Governor Abbott’s office has been recognized nationally; he was listed among TIME’s 100 Most Influential People in 2024 (official website).
Additional photos from the event will be provided when available.
