Members of the John Benning Chapter DAR attended the state conference where the chapter earned Honor Roll recognition. Representing the chapter at the state conference were, from left, Jean Gay, Nancy Coleman and Faye Brock, as well as Paula Neely, who is not shown.  

MOULTRIE, Ga. — Moultrie’s John Benning Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution, was honored at the recent state conference as an Honor Roll chapter, the highest level of recognition awarded by the state society.

The chapter also received the Hightower Award for its support of DAR schools. In addition, the chapter earned second place honors for service to veterans and number of volunteer hours recorded in service to veterans. The chapter received third place for its traditional scrapbook recording the chapter’s activities.  

On the national level, the chapter was recognized for 25 percent increase in membership during the past three years. It also received Level I Chapter Achievement (highest level) as reported to NSDAR.

The highlight of the conference was recognition of Johnnie Shiver as the state winner for Outstanding Volunteer Service to Veterans Award. Shiver was nominated by the John Benning chapter. It was announced at the conference that Shiver also received the Southeastern Volunteer and was being considered for the national award. That announcement will be made in May.

These honors recognize the chapter for its many activities during 2018 to promote education, historic preservation and patriotism.  The chapter sponsored the annual county-wide Independence Day Observance on the Courthouse Square, participated in Memorial Day and Veterans Day and other veteran activities, conducted Wreaths Across America at Christmas to honor veterans, observed Flag Day, conducted genealogy workshops, and supported DAR schools. The chapter awarded scholarships and medals to outstanding American history and ROTC students. In addition, the chapter recognized The Moultrie Observer for its service to the community. The Colquitt County Arts Center received the Community Service Award from NSDAR as nominated by the John Benning chapter.

DAR is a volunteer women’s service organization that honors and preserves the legacy of our patriot ancestors by promoting education, history and patriotism. Any woman 18 years or older, regardless of race, religion or ethnic background, who can prove lineal descent from a patriot of the American Revolution is eligible for membership. DAR members are willing to assist those interested with the genealogy needed to document lineage. For information on how to become a member of DAR, send an email to moultriedar@gmail.com.