San Antonio Zoo Unveils “Warriors Heart Train,” Honoring U.S. Military and Those Who Serve
New train transforms every ride into a journey of remembrance and gratitude
SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS – APRIL 9, 2026 – San Antonio Zoo officially unveiled the Warriors Heart Train during a special ribbon-cutting ceremony on Thursday morning, celebrating the service and sacrifice of U.S. military members and their families.
The patriotic, steam engine-style train is now the third in the zoo’s fleet and serves as a moving tribute to the men and women of the Armed Forces. The train was made possible through a generous lead donation from Warriors Heart, the first and only private, accredited treatment program in the U.S. exclusively serving active-duty military, veterans, and first responders struggling with addiction, PTSD, and related challenges. The train is fueled by Valero, whose support helps power this tribute for guests year-round.
“This train is more than just a ride, it’s a living tribute,” said Tim Morrow, President & CEO of San Antonio Zoo. “Each journey is an opportunity to honor and remember those who have served our country. In Military City, U.S.A., this is a meaningful way to connect our community with that legacy.”
A defining element of the project is its craftsmanship. Over the past year, San Antonio Zoo’s Maintenance Team dedicated countless hours to building out, detailing, and finalizing the Warriors Heart Train, ensuring it reflects both the nostalgia of classic park trains and the significance of its mission.
The train features a wheelchair-accessible coach, which is branded with San Antonio’s official, trademarked nickname, Military City USA.
The unveiling ceremony brought together community leaders, military representatives, and key partners for a program rooted in patriotic tradition. The event opened with the presentation of the colors by the Highlands High School Army JROTC Color Guard and a performance of the National Anthem by U.S. Army Veteran Nikita Fox.
Speakers included Tim Morrow, President & CEO of San Antonio Zoo; Josh Lannon, Co-Founder and CEO of Warriors Heart; Tom Spooner, U.S. Army (Ret.), Co-Founder and President of Warriors Heart; Retired Major General Juan G. Ayala, representing the City of San Antonio; and U.S. Navy Veteran Gina Ponce with Bexar County Military Veterans Services. Both city and county proclamations were presented during the ceremony, underscoring the importance of honoring military service within the San Antonio community.
Also in attendance were Lisa Lannon, Co-Founder of Warriors Heart and San Antonio Zoo Board Member, and Laurie Spooner, Co-Founder of Warriors Heart, along with additional Warriors Heart representatives, whose presence highlighted the organization’s ongoing commitment to supporting veterans and first responders. The celebration concluded with the train’s first ceremonial ride, welcoming donors and supporters alongside active-duty and retired military members and their families.
The Warriors Heart Train features dedicated seats, benches, and full train coaches that honor individual service members, military families, and legacies. Each element represents a personal story that will be carried forward with every ride.
“San Antonio is one of the most military-connected cities in the nation, and this train carries more than passengers—it carries a message,” said Josh Lannon, CEO and Co-Founder of Warriors Heart. “A message that we will continue to honor those who served, past and present.”
Those wishing to honor and recognize a past or present member of the military still have the opportunity to purchase a dedicated seat, bench, or coach and can learn more at www.sazoo.org/zootrain.
In recognition of the Month of the Military Child, San Antonio Zoo is offering FREE admission throughout April for children of active-duty, retired, and veteran military members, with up to four additional family members receiving 50% off admission.