[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 190 (Monday, November 10, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1053]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            HONORING THE RIO VISTA AMERICAN LEGION POST 178

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. MIKE THOMPSON

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, November 10, 2025

  Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize 
the Rio Vista American Legion Post 178 as it celebrates the 100th 
anniversary of its charter and a century of service to our veterans and 
our Rio Vista community.
  The American Legion was founded in 1919 by an act of Congress in the 
wake of World War I to support veterans, active-duty military 
personnel, and their families. Over the past century, it has grown into 
one of the largest and most respected veterans organizations in the 
world, advocating for key federal programs like the GI Bill, advancing 
veterans, health care, and fostering civic engagement and youth 
leadership. Today, the American Legion includes more than 1.6 million 
members serving in over 12,000 posts across our country and abroad.
  Rio Vista American Legion Post 178 joined this distinguished network 
on October 23, 1925, bringing the Legion's mission of service, 
patriotism, and community to our local level. For 100 years, Post 178 
has stood as a cornerstone of our Rio Vista community, supporting 
veterans, strengthening civic ties, and honoring those who have served 
our Nation.
  Throughout its history, Post 178 has demonstrated steadfast 
commitment to our local veterans. The Post played a key role in 
establishing a home for unhoused veterans in Rio Vista, raising funds 
and providing volunteer labor for its construction. It continues to 
provide critical assistance for veterans through its post service 
officer, who helps veterans access benefits through the Department of 
Veterans Affairs, including health care, disability, and education 
programs. The Post also serves as an important gathering place for 
veterans and their families. Each week, it opens its doors for Thursday 
evening social hours, offering a place for camaraderie and connection. 
The facility doubles as a community hub, available for use by civic 
organizations, churches, and residents, and hosts a wide range of local 
events that bring people together across our Rio Vista.
  Post 178 honors the service and sacrifice of our Nation's veterans 
through annual ceremonies that have become local traditions. These 
include the Memorial Day ceremony in front of Rio Vista City Hall, the 
placement of flags on veterans' graves, the Patriot Day ceremony each 
September 11th, the POW/MIA ceremony at City Hall, and the annual flag 
retirement ceremony at the Post. In addition to its service to 
veterans, Post 178 actively supports youth in the community. The Post 
provides scholarships to local students and sponsors candidates for the 
American Legion's Boys State and Auxiliary Girls State programs, which 
give high school students hands-on experience in civic leadership and 
government. The Post also organizes the annual Kinser Cup Golf 
Tournament in honor of Adam Kinser, a Rio Vista soldier who made the 
ultimate sacrifice in service to our country.
  For a century, Rio Vista American Legion Post 178 has exemplified the 
spirit of service that defines both our veterans and our community. 
Under the leadership of Post Commander John Fashing and Adjutant Jim 
Wheeler, the Post continues to honor the men and women who served and 
to strengthen the bonds of community in Rio Vista.
  Mr. Speaker, it is fitting and proper that we honor Rio Vista 
American Legion Post 178 here today on the occasion of its 100th 
anniversary and recognize its enduring service to our veterans and to 
our community.

                          ____________________