AUSTIN, Texas— Today, Texas Land Commissioner and Texas Veterans Land Board (VLB) Chairwoman Dawn Buckingham, M.D., was honored to present the William R. Courtney Texas State Veterans Home with a certificate commemorating its 25th Anniversary on July 28, 2025, in Temple. Commissioner Buckingham was joined by Tony Dale, Executive Secretary of the VLB, Senator Pete Flores, District 19, Representative Brad Buckley, Texas House District 54, City of Temple Councilmember Mike Pilkington, District 4, a representative for Congressman John Carter, District 31, and Mayor Pro-Tem Laurie Bailey, City of Troy.
"For a quarter of a century, the William R. Courtney Texas State Veterans Home has stood as a pillar of care for the Veterans who live here and the Temple community," said Commissioner Dawn Buckingham. "This home embodies the spirit of its namesake, First Lieutenant William R. Courtney, a man dedicated to service on the battlefield and in his civic duties. Each day, the exceptional staff here honor that legacy by providing skilled care, unwavering respect, and a true sense of home to our Veterans, their spouses, and Gold Star parents in Texas. As Chairwoman of the VLB, it is an honor to serve those who have selflessly defended our nation. Veterans and their families deserve the very best and, for 25 years, that is what they have received here in Temple."
Texas Land Commissioner Dawn Buckingham, M.D., gives a keynote speech at the 25th Anniversary of the William R. Courtney Texas State Veterans Home in Temple on July 28, 2025
The celebration at the William R. Courtney TSVH commemorated 25 years of excellence in Veteran care and recognized its staff for their devotion to Texas Veterans.
During the ceremony, Commissioner Buckingham, along with other essential leaders, addressed the crowd of Veterans, their families, the Temple TSVH staff, and community members. The festivities included refreshments, dessert, and time for Veterans, their families, staff, and guests to connect and share stories.
From left to right: Senator Pete Flores, District 19, Texas Land Commissioner Dawn Buckingham, M.D., Representative Brad Buckley, Texas House District 54
The Texas State Veterans Home in Temple is named after William R. (Bill) Courtney, who served in the U.S. Army from 1942 to 1946. He rose from the rank of Private to First Lieutenant in the 10th Mountain Infantry Division stationed in Italy.
First Lieutenant Courtney’s dedication to civic affairs greatly contributed to Temple’s growth and prosperity. He was a member of a pioneer Central Texas Family and he wholeheartedly supported the community’s goals and objectives. As a well-known and highly respected attorney and tireless civic worker with outstanding leadership abilities, First Lieutenant Courtney’s personal, professional, and civic life was built on a foundation of integrity and service.
He personified excellence, duty, compassion and service. First Lieutenant Courtney’s dedication to serving others, his invaluable contributions to the Temple community and his love of life and spirit of giving will never be forgotten.
The William R. Courtney Texas State Veterans Home opened in 2000 and is 75,000 square feet and has 160 beds, of which 32 are designated to memory care. Eligible Veterans with 70% or more service-connected disability rating will live in the home at no cost.