FIRST NAVY OF TEXAS- MATAGORDA SQUADRON COMMISSIONING CEREMONY & CELEBRATING TEXIAN NAVY DAY

September 16, 2023 Matagorda Harbor Pavillion

There were over 100 in attendance for the Texas Navy Day celebration and the commissioning of 12 new admirals for the Matagorda Squadron including 3 members of the Matagorda Historical Society. Admiral Dawn Gerstenberger, Admiral Philip Howell and Admiral Tom Sutton were honored to be commissioned in the First Texas Navy Matagorda Squadron. The Boy Scout Troop #0045 from Bay City, TX served as the honor guard and presented the flags. MHS President, Jo Sutton, was also honored with the Yellow Rose of Texas Award given by Gov. Greg Abbott for her continued support of Matagorda history and her unwavering community service to the township of Matagorda.

Admiral Philip Howell walking the red carpet with the honor guard on either side.

Admiral Dallam Masterson and Admiral Beth Fisher of the First Texas Navy both of whom are direct descendents of Samuel Rhoads Fisher who was the first Secretary of the for the Republic of Texas.

THE LIBERTY

FIRST TEXAS NAVY

Jo Sutton, President of Matagorda Historical Society walks the red carpet to receive the Yellow Rose of Texas Award from Gov. Gregg Abbott. She is only the 45th Texas woman to receive this award since it's inception in 1957.

THE INDEPENDENCE

FIRST TEXAS NAVY

Matagorda Historical Society President, Jo Sutton and Admiral Tom Sutton were presented the Matagorda County Proclamation naming September 16, 2023 First Texas Navy Day /Matagorda Squadon in Matagorda County.