Rappahannock Chapter Combines with DAR to Dedicate Plaque at Menokin

     Menokin, the home of Declaration of Independence signer Francis Lightfoot Lee, is undergoing a unique renovation.  It will be partly restored, and the rest will be enclosed in steel supported glass.  The structure is currently protected by a large steel cover, that will be removed when the restoration is completed.

Francis Lightfoot Lee 1734-1797

     The ceremony today was conducted by Rappahannock Chapter President Carl Strock, in conjunction with the Henricopolus Chapter, NSDAR.

Part of the approximately 35 people in attendance.

L to R: Regent of the Henricopolus Chapter, NSDAR, and Rappahannock Chapter President Carl Strock.

The plaque is unveiled.

     The Virginia SAR was represented by President Mike Elston, who was the keynote speaker, and members of six chapters:  Col Fielding Lewis, Culpeper Minutemen, George Washington, James Monroe, Rappahannock, and Thomas Jefferson.  Three members of the Virginia SAR Color Guard also participated in the ceremony.  Compatriot Will Elston also represented the C.A.R. as the Virginia State Historian.

Virginia SAR President Mike Elston delivers the keynote address.

     Also during the ceremony President Mike Elston presented the Military Service Medal to Gregory Burkett for his service in the Navy, and the War Service Medal to Carl Strock, who began in the Army as a Private and retired as a Lieutenant General, having served in combat in Panama, Grenada, Iraq, Kosovo, and the Global War on Terrorism.

L to R: Gregory Burkett, President Mike Elston, Carl Strock.

     After the ceremony light refreshments were served and a tour of the restoration work at Menokin was conducted.

Hard Hats are required for tour participants.

Main participants in the ceremony, left to right, Virginia SAR President Mike Elston, DAR, Rappahannock Chapter President Carl Strock, DAR, DAR, Virginia C.A.R. Historian Will Elston.