Jackson patriotic organization receives national award

Byrd Settlement Society of Jackson attended the National Convention of the Children of the American Revolution held recently in Virginia. The society was named the nation's outstanding CAR Society for 2008.

CAR is the nation's oldest, largest, patriotic youth organization that offers membership to anyone younger than 21 who is lineally descended from someone who served in the Continental Army or gave material aid in the American Revolution.

Michelle Blakemore, Melissa Blakemore, Jack Lake and Pete Lake were elected as voting delegates to the convention. The Blakemores are members of the Missouri Bootheel Society, and the Lakes are members of the Byrd Settlement Society.

National officers for 2008 to 2009 were elected, reports were given and local societies honored at a candidates campaign party, the awards banquet and dance and party honoring the outgoing national president.

Jack Lake served as a national color bearer, carrying the CAR flag at each processional.

Morgan Lake was installed as senior state president for Missouri and will serve as a member of the national board for a term of two years.

The annual pilgrimage included a wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier of the American Revolution at Arlington National Cemetery at the Old Presbyterian Meeting House in Alexandria, Va.

cpagano@semissourian.com

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