Holiday Greetings to all our families and guests at American Legion Post 453.
I wanted to take moment to say thank you every single person who has volunteered/worked at our Post or with our network of volunteer opportunities to keep it up and running every day. Without the many hours of sacrifice and commitment, we wouldn’t be where we are today.
As we end this year and look forward to the next, there are some brief announcements to make as follows:
- Christmas Day Hours 12pm to 8pm
- Hams will be ready at 2pm
- Please bring a side to share.
Our Legion members meeting has been moved to Tuesday, January 13th, 2026 and we will be holding Officer Elections to fill our empty positions. We are still looking for more Legionaires to step up and be a part of our Post. If you pray, you can even be our Chaplain.
Lastly, we have a very important all family (open to everyone) meeting at 3pm on Sunday, January 18, 2026, where we will discuss membership, volunteerism and most importantly our Post finances for 2025 and looking forward to 2026.
As always, anyone can call or text me with their concerns and suggestions for our Post.
Again, everyone have a safe and sound Holiday Season. It has been my pleasure serving you as Commander.
Respectfully,
Gabriel
Commander
Post 453
Quick Update – Your New Commander
Commander Gabriel Dowell was elected as the Commander of Love Field Post 453 on July 1, 2025. His military career began in August 1996, serving in the United States Navy through July 2002, followed by a term in the U.S. Navy Reserve from May 2004 to May 2006. He was stationed aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72) from June 1998 to July 2002, where he participated in two Westpac cruises in 1998 and 2000, supporting the Iraq No-Fly Zone in the Arabian Gulf.
After completing his military service, Commander Dowell utilized his GI Bill and Navy College Fund benefits to earn both a Bachelor's and a Master's degree in Civil Engineering from Washington State University in Pullman, WA.
In July 2015, he relocated to Dallas, Texas, to start his career with the City of Dallas Department of Transportation. Since 2020, Commander Dowell has worked in private sector consulting and is currently a Transportation Professional with Dunaway Engineering in Dallas.
A dedicated member of the American Legion since 2017, he served as 1st Vice Commander in 2024. Commander Dowell is also committed to upholding the Legion's core pillars: strong national security, veteran care, advocacy for children and youth, and promoting Americanism.
He and his wife, Marilou, share their home with three dogs. Together, they are deeply committed to serving their community and supporting the mission of the American Legion.