As I write this story, I wonder how many people ever have a feeling of pride in what they do for a living or just for service to the community. Well, here is the story of why I am proud.

On November 25, I served as a hostess for the Blanco Pioneer Museum. I really did not do much but greet people and invite them to see the World War II exhibit at the museum and to get a cookie or candy cane and enjoy the beautiful guitar music of Skip Brasher. After the town lighting many people came through the museum; most of them just doing the tour to satisfy the star stamp on their Christmas tree card. But there were some who really were interested and we spoke to them about the exhibits. These people stayed much longer and asked questions. After about two hours I noticed a young Hispanic gentleman, very neatly dressed, ironed jeans and shirt, very short hair, looking at the exhibit intently and reading every word. As I spoke to him, I asked if he was enjoying the exhibit and could I assist him. He explained this was very interesting and he would like to come back to have more time in the museum to read and see everything here. I told him local citizens had loaned the museum everything in the museum and their family and relatives had brought this memorabilia home from the war. As we talked the young man revealed he was a Marine and was home. My heart sunk as I heard the words but the young man said, “I’m happy to see someone honoring their service.” He said goodnight and left with his family but I still remember him and know now why I do the museum. Let us not forget who has gone before us, to keep us safe and free. I am proud to be an American and thank those who have served. Especially the young gentleman whose name I did not get.

Our museum is open only on Friday, Saturday and Sunday but we can arrange special tours for families and you can stay longer to read, see and visit. Phone Nell Krueger at 830-833-5774.