News Release
NPS Photo/Andrew Shirey
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Contact: Chantelle Ruidant-Hansen, (210) 534-8875
SAN ANTONIO — On Dec. 10, San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, a unit of the National Park Service and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, proudly welcomed Kevin Lilly, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for Fish, Wildlife and Parks, for a visit celebrating the park’s collaboration with Joint Base San Antonio.As part of Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary Lilly’s visit, the park hosted a meet-and-greet at the historic Mission San Juan farm fields with members of the JBSA military community.
“San Antonio Missions reflects the very best of what our national parks can be when we work hand in hand with the military community,” said Kevin Lilly, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for Fish, Wildlife and Parks. “Partnerships like the one with Joint Base San Antonio create meaningful opportunities for service members and their families to connect with our shared history, enjoy public lands, and continue serving their communities in new ways.”
During the event, the 502nd Force Support Group was honored with the 2026 Superintendent's Partnership Award, acknowledging their ten years of leadership on the JBSA Workforce Alliance and commitment to strengthening connections between service members and America’s national parks to include SkillBridge, veteran outreach and recreational outings for military families.
Col. Marie Slack, commander of the 502nd Force Support Group, said the partnership represents a meaningful bridge between service and community. “Our service members and civilian teammates gain so much from working alongside the National Park Service,” Slack said. “These collaborations give our people the chance to grow, contribute and stay rooted in the heritage of the city that supports them.”
“We’re honored to strengthen our partnership with Joint Base San Antonio and ensure that our military community has the opportunity to connect with the natural and cultural treasures of San Antonio Missions and national parks across the country,” said Christine Jacobs, superintendent of San Antonio Missions National Historical Park.
The park also distributed America the Beautiful Federal Recreational Lands Military Passes to the military members in attendance. This free pass provides access to more than 2,000 federal recreation areas, including all national parks, for military members, veterans, and Gold Star families in gratitude for their service and dedication.
Last updated: January 20, 2026