The Shadow
The Rainbow Ridge Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution, met at The Company Store in Low Moor Nov. 4 with Regent Barbara Smith presiding.
The blessing was given by Anne Koethcke.
The Star Spangled Banner, American’s Creed and Preamble to the U.S. United States Constitution were led by Smith.
Sally Putnam gave the National Defense Report, “We Can Never Thank Our Veterans Enough.” Americans should honor all veterans who have fought in all wars.
The letter from Marguerite Jenkins read, “Last Tuesday this nation voted. The Constitution gives us that right. However, the American veterans are the only people who have earned the right to vote, because of their service; the rest of us have the privilege of voting.
“It is because of their service that we still are the ‘land of the free’ and still have a Constitution. They put their education and careers on hold and their lives in harm’s way for us.
“We joined in World War I because Great Britain needed help, and 4,734,991 Americans served. Today, 4,734,990 are gone, only one remains. This was the war to end all wars. It didn’t. In World War II, 16.1 million American men and women served – 292,000 were killed in action and 671,000 were wounded.
“We thought we would have time to experience peace, but no, suddenly there was the Korean War where 1,789,000 served. In Vietnam, 2.5 million served.
“These are just figures and do not become real until you put faces on them. At a time where we thought we were all-powerful and at peace, 9/11 came along and reminded us it can be unsafe in our backyards once again.
“Our veterans should be regarded with the highest esteem. A veteran should always be first in line; should be offered the ‘plum’ positions; should get premium health insurance without ever having to remind the government of their service; and should hold an honored, revered position in our society.
“Our veterans made it possible for the rest of us to enjoy a good life. We owe them a debt so monumental that it can never be repaid.”
Ann Drewry gave the treasurer’s report. She read a letter from Bana Cashen thanking the Rainbow Ridge Chapter for contributions to the State Regents Project; a letter from Billie Whisnant asking for books; and a letter from Carol White asking for 75 combs for Flag Day toiletry gift items.
Nancy Kruszyna presented a program on the most sought after U.S. silver dollars.
The next meeting will be in June at Heirlooms in Clifton Forge.
