Soldiers from the Texas State Guard (State Defense Force) 2nd Brigade recently dedicated part of their drill weekend to learning about their history. Guardsmen from the 3rd Battalion, 2nd Brigade toured the San Jacinto Battleground on a march that retraced the sequence of events during the battle on April 21, 1836. The tour was led by former Texas State Guard Colonel Dennis O’Driscoll, an expert in Texas history. The soldiers were given an in-depth recount of the events that led to Texas’ independence from Mexico. “We honor the bravery and sacrifice of these citizens and carry on the tradition of volunteer service for Texas,” one soldier remarked, underscoring the enduring legacy of the Texas State Guard.
The Battle of San Jacinto
In March of 1836, things were bleak for the Texian revolutionaries. Having declared independence from Mexico, they were on the run from the Mexican army and running out of options. General Sam Houston’s men, burdened with uncertainty, had a choice to make: seek refuge in Louisiana or confront General Santa Anna. On April 17th, Houston’s army made the fateful decision to head toward Harrisburg, Texas, in pursuit of a confrontation. A breakthrough came the next day when Texian scouts intercepted a Mexican courier revealing that Santa Anna was isolated with just 750 men. Seizing the opportunity, Houston’s Texians marched to the San Jacinto River, where they prepared to face off against Santa Anna.
On April 20th, Santa Anna’s troops, outnumbered at first, arrived at the battlefield and pitched camp, unaware of the rebel forces hiding nearby. After a brief skirmish, both sides held their positions. Santa Anna, thinking he had time on his side, worked his men overnight building fortifications, unaware that Houston’s chief scout, Erastus “Deaf” Smith, had cut off their only retreat by destroying Vince’s Bridge. On the afternoon of April 21st, with many of Santa Anna’s soldiers resting, the Texians made their move. Shouting “Remember the Alamo!” and “Remember Goliad!” the Texians charged the unsuspecting Mexican forces. In just eighteen minutes, the battle was won, and over 600 Mexican soldiers lay dead, with another 600 captured. The Texians lost just six men.
The Battle of San Jacinto remains one of the most decisive battles in American history. The Texian victory ensured Texas’ independence and eventually led to its annexation into the United States.
Understanding the history of battles like San Jacinto is crucial, not just for historians but for every American, especially those in uniform. The sacrifices made by soldiers who fought for Texas’ independence serve as a reminder of the resilience and sacrifices needed to defend one’s nation. For those serving today in the Texas State Guard, this history is more than just a story—it is a legacy of honor, duty, and service to both their state and country.
Guardsmen from 3rd Battalion, 2nd Brigade, Texas State Guard, toured the San Jacinto Battleground while on a march, retracing the sequence of events during the battle on April 21, 1836, La Porte, Texas, Sept. 14, 2024. Former Texas State Guard colonel, Dennis O’Driscoll, an expert in Texas history, led the tour, giving background and details of the battle which led to Texas independence. 2nd Brigade pays homage to our ancestors who won our freedom and independence for what became the state of Texas by featuring the “twin sisters” cannons on our challenge coin.
We honor the bravery and sacrifice of these citizens and carry on the tradition of volunteer service for Texas and answer the call during any emergency: Duty, Honor, Texas. (Texas State Guard photos by Chief Warrant Officer 2 Gregory Illich) #duty#honor#texas#TXMilitary#TXSG#TexansServingTexas#txlege
Source: Texas State Guard – San Jacinto Museum
