Welcome to American Legion Post 490
We proudly serve veterans, families, and our community with honor and dedication. As the largest post in Texas by membership, Post 490 stands committed to supporting veterans' programs, youth initiatives, and patriotic events throughout the year.
Located across from Ellington Field in South Houston, our Post has served the community for generations — honoring those who served, supporting those still in uniform, and giving back to the families and neighbors who make this community great. Learn more about Post 490 ›
From the Commander
On behalf of every member of American Legion South Houston Post 490, welcome. Our Post has served veterans and this community for generations — through good times and hard ones. Today we are rebuilding from a devastating fire, but our mission, our spirit, and our commitment to those who served have never been stronger.
Whether you are a veteran looking for community, a family member wanting to give back, or a neighbor who believes in supporting those who wore the uniform — Post 490 is your home. We are proud to be a 501(c)(19) nonprofit organization, and every dollar donated goes directly toward veterans' programs, community service, and rebuilding our Post.
For God and Country,
Rene Sanchez, Post Commander
American Legion S. Houston Post #490
📰 Latest from Post 490
🏆 Evelyn Watkins Wins $1,000 Scholarship at Top Ten Luncheon
Post 490 proudly presented Lutheran South Academy valedictorian Evelyn Watkins at the South Belt Ellington Chamber of Commerce Top Ten Luncheon. Evelyn earned one of just three coveted $1,000 Scholarships. She plans to major in Aerospace Engineering with a pre-med track to become a flight surgeon — a doctor for astronauts! Read the full Commander's newsletter ›
✅ Step Up and Lead — Annual Election of Officers, May 13
All officer positions are open for nominations! The election takes place May 13, 2026 at 7 PM at the South Belt Ellington Chamber of Commerce, 10500 Scarsdale Blvd, Houston TX 77089. Only members with a current 2026 membership card may vote. Nominations may be made from the floor — reply to the Commander or contact any current officer to get your name on the ballot. View Officer Position Descriptions (PDF)
🎉 100% Membership Goal — ACHIEVED!
1,042 active members — we exceeded our 100% Membership Goal for 2026! A heartfelt THANK YOU to every member for your unwavering commitment. Let's carry this momentum forward to next year! Renew or join today ›
🏭 Post 490 Building Status
Our Board of Trustees and General Contractor are actively collaborating with the City of Houston Permitting Center. The process involves detailed plan reviews, necessary revisions, and final approvals to secure permits for construction. Every effort is being made to move things forward as quickly and efficiently as possible. Read the full Commander's newsletter ›
📅 Upcoming Dates
Apr 14–23 — Navy Fleet Week Houston
Apr 20 — VETConnect Job Fair, San Jac College Central, 10 AM–3 PM (Free)
Apr 22 — Military Appreciation Night, Houston Dynamo vs San Diego FC, Shell Energy Stadium, 7:30 PM (Free Tickets)
May 13 — Post 490 Elections, South Belt Ellington Chamber, 7 PM
May 16–17 — Dept. of Texas 2nd Division Convention, Post 159 Bryan
⚓ Navy Fleet Week Houston
April 14–23 — Inaugural Fleet Week Houston, the first in Texas! Free ship tours, military demos, and community events at the Port of Houston and Downtown. Please try to make at least one event — it may be a while before Fleet Week returns to Houston! Contact Commander Sanchez if interested in participating with Post 490.
🎓 Scholarship Opportunities
Multiple American Legion scholarships are available including the Post 490 Scholarship ($500) and the Samsung American Legion Scholarship for Texas Boys State participants. Visit our Programs page for details and application info. A full list of available scholarships will be published in the next Commander's newsletter.
🏭 Boys State 2026
Texas Boys State runs June 7–12. All staff must arrive by June 6 for mandatory orientation. See Programs for details and application info.
Upcoming Meetings
Current Holidays & Observances
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