Austin, Texas, February 4, 2026
Texas Land Commissioner Dawn Buckingham has proclaimed a statewide observance of Texas Military Heroes Week from February 2 to February 6. This initiative honors the sacrifices of veterans, emphasizing community involvement through programs like the Valentine’s for Veterans and the Voices of Veterans Oral History Program. The Veterans Land Board encourages Texans to engage in activities that celebrate military heroes throughout the state’s history.
Austin, Texas – February 3, 2026
Texas Land Commissioner Dawn Buckingham has announced the statewide observance of Texas Military Heroes Week, running from February 2 to February 6, 2026. This initiative aims to honor the sacrifices and service of military personnel throughout the state’s history.
As Chairwoman of the Texas Veterans Land Board (VLB), Commissioner Buckingham emphasized the importance of recognizing the contributions of veterans, stating that Texas has a longstanding commitment to supporting its veterans. Texans have always played a historical role in the defense of liberty, illustrated through many significant moments, from the Alamo to various military conflicts overseas.
Throughout this honorific week, the VLB encourages Texans to engage in various programs and activities designed to pay tribute to military heroes residing in the state. This initiative serves not only as a reminder of the sacrifices made by service members but also as an inspiring opportunity for community involvement, showcasing the resilience and entrepreneurial spirit that often defines the Lone Star State.
Key Programs for Texas Military Heroes Week
The VLB has introduced several programs that Texans can participate in during Texas Military Heroes Week:
- Valentine’s for Veterans Program: This statewide initiative invites individuals, schools, churches, and community groups to send Valentine’s Day cards, letters, and drawings to veterans residing in Texas State Veterans Homes. In the previous year, a remarkable total of 37,997 Valentine’s Day cards and letters were mailed—setting a new record for the largest card donation in the program’s history.
- Voices of Veterans Oral History Program: This program aims to capture and preserve the experiences of veterans by recording their stories. This year, the program is set to expand to include video narratives, offering a comprehensive archive that ensures future generations will learn from these remarkable individuals.
- Veterans-Only Land Sale: The VLB offers veterans and military members the chance to bid on available tracts of land. This initiative supports veterans in achieving home ownership and land investment with the availability of low-interest loans from the VLB.
Additionally, the VLB maintains ten modern long-term care facilities and is responsible for four Texas State Veterans Cemeteries (TSVC) across the state. Later this year, the VLB will celebrate the Grand Opening of its fifth TSVC in Lubbock, thereby enhancing its services dedicated to honoring and supporting veterans.
How to Get Involved
Texans who wish to participate in these patriotic initiatives can do so by visiting the Texas General Land Office website or by reaching out to the Texas Veterans Call Center, which can provide valuable guidance and information regarding participation.
FAQ Section
What is Texas Military Heroes Week?
Texas Military Heroes Week is an annual observance from February 2 to February 6, 2026, dedicated to honoring the sacrifices and service of military personnel throughout Texas’s history.
How can I participate in the Valentine’s for Veterans Program?
Individuals, schools, churches, and community groups are invited to send Valentine’s Day cards, letters, and drawings to veterans residing in Texas State Veterans Homes. For more details, visit the Texas General Land Office website.
What is the Voices of Veterans Oral History Program?
The program captures and preserves the stories of veterans by recording their experiences and reflections on their service. This year, the program is expanding to include video stories, ensuring a comprehensive archive of veterans’ narratives.
What is the Veterans-Only Land Sale?
The Veterans-Only Land Sale is an initiative by the Texas Veterans Land Board, offering veterans and military members the opportunity to bid on available tracts of land. The VLB provides low-interest loans to assist in the purchase of these properties.
Where are the Texas State Veterans Cemeteries located?
The VLB operates four Texas State Veterans Cemeteries in Abilene, Corpus Christi, Killeen, Lubbock, and Mission. These cemeteries provide dignified resting places for veterans and their families.
Key Features of Texas Military Heroes Week
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Valentine’s for Veterans Program | A statewide initiative inviting individuals and groups to send Valentine’s Day cards, letters, and drawings to veterans in Texas State Veterans Homes. |
| Voices of Veterans Oral History Program | An expansion of the program to include video stories of veterans discussing their service, preserving their experiences for future generations. |
| Veterans-Only Land Sale | An opportunity for veterans and military members to bid on available tracts of land, with the VLB offering low-interest loans to assist in the purchase. |
| Texas State Veterans Cemeteries | The VLB operates four cemeteries in Abilene, Corpus Christi, Killeen, Lubbock, and Mission, providing dignified resting places for veterans and their families. |
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