The Santa Margarita Chapter was privileged to place a plaque recognizing the historic Army Navy Academy (ANA) in Carlsbad, CA. An early morning gathering of DAR members from six chapters, the public, cadets and officials from the academy were treated to a medley of patriotic tunes from the ANA Warrior Band. The band played the National Anthem as the Colors were raised. Commandant, Col Wayne Ward USA (Ret), issued the Oath of Leadership to five senior cadets who received their sabers and epaulets.

Seventeen different nations are represented at the academy with 98% going on to college. The members were excited to see that board member, Ed Roe, was wearing a JROTC Medal that he had received from the DAR in 1958 when he attended Southwestern Military School. Chapter Historian, Jan Erickson, spearheaded the process through the Historian General’s office, and this event, gave a short history of the DAR and of the 109 years of the academy.

State Regent Adele Lancaster spoke of the shared goals of the DAR and the academy. Chapter regent, Charla Boodry, and MG Arthur Bartell, USA (Ret) unveiled the plaque. Refreshments were served and a tour of the facility rounded out the morning. It was a great day for the DAR and the Academy.

Photo:  Chapter Regent Charla Boodry, Chapter Historian Jan Erickson, State Regent Adele Lancaster plus DAR marker