Congress Culmination: National Defense Night

National Defense Night begins at 7 p.m. this evening. One of our most treasured traditions, it provides a platform from which to salute those who defend our country. Tonight’s honorees include veterans, active-duty military and those involved in preserving the memories and bettering the lives of service members and their families: Commander Billie Farrell of the USS Constitution, Pat Scannon of Project Recover, the Society of the Honor Guard Tomb of the Unknown Solider and the American Battle Monuments Commission. Keynote remarks will be provided by General Mark Milley, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs, who will be honored with the DAR Patriot Award. 

We will also be hosting a tribute to World War II and Iwo Jima veteran Woody Williams, who was intended to be our Medal of Honor honoree but sadly passed away earlier this week at the age of 98. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of this true American hero.

Voting began at 6 a.m. this morning, and closed at 10am with delegates casting their ballot on their personal devices via the Simply Voting platform. I hope all found this process easy and seamless.

During our business session, we will hear the remaining reports of our hard-working State Regents. Many of you will then likely join me at the Junior Membership Luncheon. I am deeply thankful for our Junior Members and the dedicated work they do in their communities. Many of the Presidents General and National Board of Management members joined DAR as Junior Members, and it is always enjoyable to share this special time with the Juniors of today, who are the leaders of tomorrow.

Service is at the very heart of all that we do, and so I am asking you to attend today’s National Committee Showcase from 2-4 p.m. in the JW Marriott’s Salons F&G. This free-flowing forum provides our National Committee Chairs a chance to highlight their work. Virtually everything that DAR accomplishes at all levels emanates from our dozens of committees – this is your chance to learn more about their vibrancy and purpose. There is something for everyone in DAR, and this trade-show-style showcase will display all that we have to offer you and the women in your chapter.

This afternoon, I will attend a special reception honoring the Benefactors and Patriots whose contributions played such a vital role in the restoration of Constitution Hall. We will share a special champagne toast to our success. I know that we have all been enjoying the benefit of their generous contributions this week. Following National Defense Night, we will enjoy the Congress Reception back at the JW Marriott to honor the newly elected officers; please note that this event is currently sold out. Tomorrow, of course, brings our annual Memorial Service and closing business session.

Make the most of this day!