Remember the Alamo!

Today marks the 175th birthday of the great state of Texas. What a glorious day for all the lucky few who are blessed to call Texas home. I had originally planned on spending my afternoon at the Texas State History Museum, but one of my teachers decided to give an exam on this sacred day. What a jerk. Anyways, I'll be headed that way tomorrow and will be back with a full report. But I needed to make a post on this tremendous occasion. So I figured what better way to commemorate Texas' 175th birthday by honoring all of the great heros of this land.

First and foremost, the father of Texas, Stephen F. Austin. Yes, the same Austin my hometown is named after. Arriving in Texas on August 12, 1821, he quickly became a leader in what was then known as "Tejas". It is he who is responsible for the settlement of Texas by promoting the land to other settlers. He also served as somewhat of a diplomat between Texas and Mexico before, during, and after the Texas Revolution.

Secondly, our first and third president, Sam Houston. In addition to his presidency, he served as the Major General of the Texas army in their fight for freedom. It was under his fine leadership that the Texans won the decisive battle at San Jacinto in under 18 minutes, capturing General Santa Ana and forcing him to sign the Treaty of Velasco, granting Texas their independence. His name will live on forever, with the great city of Houston bearing his name.

And last, but certainly not least, I would like to honor Colonel William B. Travis, Davy Crockett, James Bowie, and the 179 other men who selflessly gave their lives in the Battle of the Alamo. It was their heroics that gave General Houston the time he need to assemble an army and ultimately claim freedom from Mexico.

God Bless Texas!