Page 25 - Sojourner Newsletter-Winter 2024 FINALv2

Volume 101, Issue 1 25

Oglethorpe Camp (162) and Brother Christopher
Gabor, Georgia Hussars Camp (502) were
cheerfully admitted as Heroes of ’76. Commander
Durland then closed the Encampment so we could
all rest in preparation for the evening’s festivities.

At 1800 hours we reassembled in colonial attire
for social hour with the Bennington Banquet
honoring National Commander Coffey and
National President Warren. National Photographer
Jarrod Coffey set up his equipment and took
portraits of Brethren and their Ladies in their
fineries. We began the evening with a prayer, and
all participated in the Pledge of Allegiance to the
Flag of our Country. The Toast to the Flag was
presented by National Commander Coffey. AR Attendees at the Georgia Area Bennington Banquet
Roger Coursey introduced dignitaries and Brother
Michael Howard presented the Red Skelton description of
the Pledge of Allegiance. National Chaplain Davies
conducted a candlelight service for the brethren of the
Georgia Area who had passed this year. After we enjoyed
a delicious gourmet dinner prepared by Brother and Chef
Mike Shaefer along with great fellowship, we had a
momentous Camp Followers degree presented by
National Den Mother Grand Dame Wendy with help from
Grand Dame Merrill-Lee, Lady Nancy Pennybacker,
Lady Kelli Pierson, Lady Debbie Coursey, Lady Cathy
Goldenberg, Lady Ruby Haynes, Lady Leng Conn, Lady
Heather Vaught, Lady Linda Hillyer, and Lady Tammy
Leonard. 4 new Camp Followers were added into the fold. Gifts are presented to National President Chuck Warren and
Following the Camp Followers Degree, gifts were Grande Dame Merrill-Lee
presented to National Commander Coffey and Grand
Dame Wendy and National President Warren and Grand Dame Merrill-Lee. Our National Commander, Brian
Coffey discussed his theme for the year and gave comments of encouragement for the assembled Heroes and
Ladies. Remarks were made by National President, Brother Chuck Warren. Results of the Silent Auctions and
Raffles were announced, and many brethren and ladies went away happy.

Grande Dame Wendy Coffey confers the New Georgia Area Camp Followers and their sponsors
Followers Degree on new members