On Saturday, October 12, 2024, the Texas Nationalist Movement laid its 145th wreath at the Alamo. This event continues a tradition that began in October 2012 when the TNM introduced the Alamo Memorial March. Since then, on the second Saturday of each month, members and supporters of the TNM have gathered to honor the defenders of the Alamo, ensuring their sacrifice is remembered in a meaningful and enduring way. The wreath-laying ceremony reflects our deep respect for Texas history and represents our conscious effort to keep the spirit of independence alive in our state.

The Alamo is a cornerstone of Texas history. It was here, at the “Shrine of Texas Liberty,” that a group of Texians stood resolute in their belief that the people of Texas should govern themselves. The TNM’s wreath-laying ceremony seeks to honor their courage, commemorating not only the battle fought here but the principles that drove them to take a stand—principles of self-determination and sovereignty that continue to resonate today.

The Alamo Memorial March began as part of the TNM’s mission to preserve the cultural independence of Texas. Each wreath placed at the Alamo symbolizes more than remembrance. It is a reflection of the enduring values that the defenders fought to uphold. Self-reliance, personal responsibility, and the belief that Texans should control the future of Texas are ideals we recognize as essential to our identity. Through this monthly ceremony, the TNM underscores the importance of these values, reminding us that Texas independence remains as vital today as it was in 1836.

The march itself, a solemn walk around the perimeter of the Alamo, is carried out in silence, amplifying the gravity of the moment. This silent procession speaks volumes, conveying a message of respect for those who fell defending the Alamo and a commitment to the ongoing struggle for Texas’ right to self-govern. The TNM’s dedication to this monthly event reflects our broader commitment to ensuring that the lessons of Texas history are not forgotten but are actively woven into the fabric of our present-day efforts.

This act of remembrance is an affirmation of the values that guide the TNM’s mission. The Alamo defenders were not professional soldiers but ordinary citizens who recognized that the future of Texas rested in their hands. By honoring their legacy through the Alamo Memorial March, we acknowledge the power of individual commitment to a collective cause and the enduring significance of self-determination. The wreath-laying ceremony is our way of ensuring that future generations of Texans understand the sacrifices made and the reasons behind them.

The decision to institute the Alamo Memorial March stemmed from the TNM’s recognition of the need to keep Texas’ cultural identity strong. In a world where history can often be overshadowed or diminished, this monthly gathering ensures that the story of the Alamo is told again and again, not just as a historical event, but as a continuing source of inspiration for those who believe in Texas’ future as an independent state. The men who fought at the Alamo believed that the fate of Texas should be decided by its people. Today, the TNM carries that belief forward, standing as the modern torchbearers of their ideals.

As the TNM laid its 145th wreath, we reflect on the many people who have joined us in this act of remembrance over the past years. The march serves as a powerful reminder of the responsibility we have to carry forward the legacy of those who came before us. It also offers an opportunity for those who believe in Texas independence to come together, to stand shoulder to shoulder, and to reaffirm their commitment to the cause.

We invite all Texans who share in this vision to join us in the months ahead. The Alamo Memorial March is more than a ceremony—it is a movement, a promise that Texas will continue to honor its past while striving toward an independent future. With each wreath laid at the Alamo, we assert our belief in a Texas that governs itself, a Texas that upholds the principles of sovereignty and self-determination. This is our pledge to the defenders of the Alamo and to the generations of Texans yet to come.