DAR, American Legion Honor Veterans at Cape Charles America250 Ceremony

The Northampton County Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution partnered with American Legion Post 56 to honor veterans during a July 3 ceremony in Cape Charles commemorating the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.

The public America250 event was held at the American Legion War Memorial at 226 Mason Avenue in downtown Cape Charles.

Following the presentation of colors by the American Legion Post 56 Honor Guard, DAR Chapter Regent Julie Badger placed a wreath at the memorial’s obelisk. Cape Charles Mayor Adam Charney and Vice Mayor Andy Buchholz joined chapter members and guests for the ceremony.

Participants recited the Pledge of Allegiance, read the American Creed and took part in prayers led by Chapter Chaplain Claiborne Dickinson.

The Northampton County DAR chapter and American Legion Post 56 have a long history of working together to recognize veterans and those who sacrificed in defense of the country’s freedoms.

In 1919, the DAR chapter held an Armistice Day banquet for local Legionnaires and presented a souvenir ribbon bearing the words, “From the Daughters of Freedom to the Defenders of Freedom.”

In 1922, DAR State Regent Mrs. Barrett, who also served as president of the American Legion Women’s Auxiliary, spoke at a meeting organized to establish a women’s auxiliary for Post 56.

The Legion also provides flags to the DAR chapter for special events, including naturalization ceremonies for new citizens that the chapter helps host in Norfolk.

Representatives of both organizations said honoring veterans is especially important as the nation observes the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.

The Cape Charles War Memorial was dedicated in April 1946 and originally included 321 names on its honor roll. Additional names and conflicts have been added over the years as the monument continues to recognize both past and present veterans.

The memorial was rebuilt in 1969 through the efforts of volunteers from American Legion Post 56, the local Chamber of Commerce and airmen from the former Cape Charles Air Force Base.