Photo cred: AFGE
Veteran Stories
February 25, 2026

Bon Temps! Veterans Celebrate Mardi Gras

Residents across Swords' housing sites enjoyed an annual tradition.

For over a decade, Swords to Plowshares' Jon W. Paulson Veterans Community has hosted a Mardi Gras party. With the help of resident and Louisiana-born veteran Sam Bibbens, Mardi Gras means good food and music at the Presidio housing site. "I brought this party to my community because I missed New Orleans," Sam said. "It's a one of a kind tradition."

This year included a presentation on the history of Mardi Gras and a live band - MJ's Brass Boppers - who brought the sound of the Bayou to our appreciative residents. The event brought together veterans from all 6 of our housing sites, creating new traditions with those who live in our other communities across San Francisco.

Check out the event photo album!

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