Dr. Billy Royce “BR” Kirkland, Honorary Life Member of TURNBOW-HIGGS American Legion Post 240, earned his American Legion eligibility through service in the United States Marine Corps from 1954 to 1958, achieving the rank of sergeant. He remained an active Life Member of the Marine Corps League throughout his life. His patriotism, discipline, and devotion to service—instilled during his Marine Corps years—became the foundation of a lifetime of leadership and community impact.
Service and Leadership in Post 240
BR served two terms as Commander of Post 240, first in 1997 and again in 2006, and also held the offices of First Vice Commander, Historian, and Adjutant. His first term as Commander marked a period of remarkable growth and revitalization. Under his leadership, Post 240 became recognized as one of the fastest growing Posts in Texas, earning the prestigious “Hall of Fame” award in 1997 for recruitment, activity, and overall Post development.
His leadership was further recognized when he was named Legionnaire of the Year in 1995 and again in 2004, reflecting the respect and admiration he earned from his fellow Legionnaires. In 1998, in recognition of his many contributions to Post 240 and the community, the membership bestowed upon him the distinguished honor of Honorary Life Membership tribute he deeply cherished.
Founder of the Post 240 Nursing Home & Assisted Living Program
One of BR’s most enduring legacies began in 1997, when he established a weekly visitation program for veterans residing in local nursing homes and assisted living facilities. This program included Patriotic programs, Flag dedications, Certificates of Appreciation for each veteran, and scheduled weekly visits by Post members.
Through his initiative, Post 240 became the first and only Post in Texas at that time to operate such a program. It quickly became a defining feature of Post 240’s community service identity and remains one of the most meaningful traditions ever established by the Post.
Academic and Professional Achievements
After his honorable discharge from the Marine Corps in 1958, BR pursued higher education with determination inspired by his military experience. He attended East Texas State University in Commerce, Texas, earning a Master of Business Administration, a Master of Secondary Education and Counseling, and a Doctorate from East Texas State University. His academic career included teaching positions at Sul Ross State University, Alpine, Texas and Morehead State University, Morehead, Kentucky. He later served as Director of Business Programs at McLennan Community College in Waco, Texas.
In 1979, BR joined the faculty of Tarleton State University in Stephenville, Texas, where he taught senior and graduate‑level courses until his retirement in 2011. His influence on students, colleagues, and the academic community was profound and long‑lasting.
Return to East Texas and Continued Patriotism
Upon retirement, BR and his wife Suzanne (“Bridge”) returned to their hometown of Linden, Texas. Even in retirement, his devotion to patriotic service never diminished. He continued organizing Memorial and Independence Day programs, and Flag dedication events. His love for America, for veterans, and for the Marine Corps remained central to his life.
Transfer to Post Everlasting
Dr. B.R. Kirkland transferred to Post Everlasting on July 3, 2021. On July 9, 2021, a delegation from TURNBOW-HIGGS American Legion Post 240 traveled to Linden, Texas, to honor him and serve as pallbearers. Led by Post 240 Commander Curtis Anderson and Auxiliary Unit 240 Past President Joanna Lay, the group included Sid Moon, Willis Moon, Walter Dotson, Carl Garrett, Bradley Bennett, and Roger Easter. Their presence reflected the deep respect and affection BR earned during his many years of service to Post 240.
Legacy
BR Kirkland’s legacy is one of leadership, compassion, patriotism, and unwavering dedication to veterans. His initiatives strengthened Post 240, expanded its outreach, and enriched the lives of countless veterans, students, and community members. His Honorary Life Membership was not only deserved, but it was emblematic of a life lived in service to others.
His memory remains a cherished part of the Post 240 story, and his contributions continue to shape the Post’s mission and identity.
