Rep. Ted Poe to Texas SBOE: Don't Mess With Texas History

I issued the following statement regarding the Texas State Board of Education (SBOE) Social Studies TEKS Streamlining Work Group’s proposal to no longer include Alamo Commander, Lt. Col. William B. Travis’ “Victory or Death” letter in Texas school curriculum. The Work Group also proposed to remove the word “heroic” when describing those who sacrificed their lives at the Alamo.  The SBOE is set to vote on final language Friday, September 14, 2018. 

"If this call is neglected, I am determined to sustain myself as long as possible & die like a soldier who never forgets what is due to his own honor & that of his country—  Victory or Death."

These words are the most famous words in Texas history. They tell the story of who we are as Texans – defiant, loyal, and heroic. I cannot fathom any possible way that you can teach Texas history without teaching William B. Travis’ plea ‘To the People of Texas & all Americans in the World.’  The very notion is absurd.  This letter is more than text on a piece of paper.  It is at the very core of liberty and patriotism.  Those are still values we hold in the highest regard in the Lone Star State.  I have no doubt the people of Texas will stand in defiance, just as Lt. Col. Travis did and fight this committee’s ridiculous recommendation like only Texans can do.  Victory or Death.