It was an honor that El Toyn Chapter received the Third-Place award at the 128^th Continental Congress for the Best Single Chapter Event for the 50^th Anniversary Vietnam War Commemorative Event. Marsha Merica, Chapter Commemorative Events Chair and First Vice Regent, was present at the Commemorative Events Ceremony to receive the award on behalf of the El Toyon Chapter, on Friday, June 28, 2019.

El Toyon hosted their 50^th Anniversary Vietnam War Commemorative Event on November 3, 2018 with 86 Vietnam Veterans present and a total of 120 veterans honored. The event won First Place in the California State Commemorative Events and First Place in the Southwestern Division, moving on to be judged in the National commemorative events competition.

Presenting the award was Carole Davis Levering, National Commemorative Events Chair. Retired Army Lt. General Claude “Mick” Kicklighter, Director of the 50^th Anniversary Vietnam War Commemorative Event, gave a heartwarming presentation on the partnership between the Daughters of the American Revolution, the Department of Defense and the 50^th Anniversary Vietnam War Commemorative program that honors Vietnam Veterans. Also, in attendance to congratulate El Toyon was Adele Lancaster, California State Regent and Sherrie Stein, California State Chairman Commemorative Events.

Photo left to right: Lt. General Claude “Mick” Kicklighter, Marsha Merica, Carol Davis Levering, Adele Lancaster, and Sherrie Stein.