King Antonio CII

Paul Rohlfs, Jr. Continues a Family Legacy as King Antonio CII

By Bruce X. Forey | Photography by Jenna-Beth Lyde, Parish Photography

 

For Paul Rohlfs, Jr., the reigning King Antonio CII (102), the Cavaliers are more than just an organization—they are a family tradition. His grandfather, Porter Loring, Jr., a well-respected funeral services operator, served as King Antonio LII (53), marking the family’s deep ties to this prestigious role.

 

Paul’s court, which plays a crucial role in supporting his duties as King Antonio, includes Will Ziegler as Night Aide, Eric Reblin as Executive Aide, and Ty West as Day Aide. The Cavaliers stand out as a multi-generational organization, where service and tradition are passed down through families. In a unique connection, Ziegler’s grandfather also served as Night Aide to Paul’s grandfather during his reign, further reinforcing the legacy of dedication and community service within the Cavaliers.

 

“I remember as a kid seeing my grandfather’s picture when he was King Antonio and knowing how important the king’s visit is to elementary schools,” Paul recalled. “I never imagined I would be King Antonio myself, and to be able to follow in his footsteps and his legacy is pretty special.”

 

Fiesta and the Role of King Antonio

 

During Fiesta, Paul will embark on a whirlwind of appearances at schools and various events, spreading Fiesta cheer while educating students on the mission and purpose of the Cavaliers.

 

“We’ll be up bright and early, starting with breakfast tacos and hitting all the usual stops—elementary schools, nonprofits, military bases, hospitals—and ending with appearances in all the parades,” he said.

 

The premier event for King Antonio and the Texas Cavaliers is their one-of-a-kind nighttime parade through the heart of the San Antonio River Walk. This event serves as the primary fundraiser for the organization’s Charitable Foundation, established in 1989. Since then, the Cavaliers have raised $17.5 million to support area nonprofits. In 2025, the Cavaliers will donate at least $2.8 million to support children’s charities. Additionally, seven charities supporting the Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) community will serve as the River Parade’s Charitable Honoree.

 

“Our Charitable Foundation is where we’ve really been able to make an impact on the community,” Paul said. “It’s an important contribution the Cavaliers make beyond spreading Fiesta cheer and hosting the annual River Parade.”

 

Education, Tradition, and Community Impact

 

During visits to local schools, King Antonio and his court distribute medals while educating students about the Cavaliers. According to Paul, the organization was originally founded under three pillars:

• Preserving horsemanship in the day of the automobile

• Maintaining civilian relationships with the military

• Honoring the heroes of the Alamo

 

As part of their school visits, King Antonio and his court also perform a skit with positive messaging, reinforcing values of resilience and perseverance. “Our theme this year is ‘Bounce Back.’ Failure only happens when you quit trying,” Paul said.

 

The striking appearance of King Antonio in his blue military uniform, cape, saber, and red-plumed hat always makes a lasting impression on students and adults alike when he and his court enter a room.

 

Honored to Carry on a Legacy

 

Each year, Cavalier members elect a new King Antonio, voting based on prior leadership and involvement with the organization. Paul considers it an honor to be selected, especially following in the footsteps of his grandfather 50 years later.

 

“When King Antonio visited my school during Fiesta, it was always exciting, especially knowing my grandfather was once King Antonio. When the King visited, I had the opportunity to stand next to my dad and uncle, and it was a very special moment for me.”

 

Balancing Fiesta and Professional Life

 

Fiesta is a hectic week for King Antonio, but Paul is prepared to balance his duties as Managing Principal at Milam Real Estate Capital with the demands of his royal role. Thanks to the support of his colleagues and fellow Cavaliers, he plans to embrace the experience fully, even if it means extra hours at the office. “It will be a challenge, but with some late nights, early mornings, and weekend hours, I’ll keep it all together,” he said.

 

In the vast history of San Antonio’s Fiesta, only 94 men have held the title of King Antonio. Paul is grateful to be part of that legacy.

 

“I’m just honored to serve as King Antonio this year. It’s going to be a joy to visit schools, nonprofits, hospitals, and our military, and I’m privileged to experience San Antonio in a way that only King Antonio gets to see.”