40 & 8 veteran group seeks state recognition, asks about preservation of historic boxcar at State Fairgrounds
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Summary
A local representative of the 40 and 8 veterans organization told the committee the group’s World War I French boxcar at the State Fairgrounds could be at risk if the fairgrounds are relocated and asked the state to recognize and protect the artifact.
John Ryan, grand chef of a local chapter of the Society of 40 and 8, told the Legislative Veterans and Military Affairs Committee during public comment that the organization’s French boxcar — a World War I artifact donated to New Mexico and sited at the State Fairgrounds — could be endangered if the fairgrounds are relocated. Ryan described the group's history and the boxcar’s origin, noting the Society of 40 and 8 was formed after World War I and that the boxcar at the fairgrounds was one of two France sent to the United States in gratitude for wartime support. He asked the committee to ensure the artifact is recognized and protected in any future plans that involve moving or redeveloping the State Fairgrounds. Committee leadership acknowledged Ryan’s request and invited him to provide additional information and follow up after the meeting.