Members of the General John Stark Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) in Sycamore recently attended the society’s 128th Illinois State Conference in Bloomington, Illinois. This gathering, a cornerstone event in the DAR calendar, united individuals dedicated to upholding America’s rich heritage and furthering the organization’s mission of promoting historic preservation, education, and patriotism.
In addition to attending to business matters, attendees celebrated the successes of the state’s 103 chapters and honored students with awards and scholarships. Presentations were made by Heather Green, Executive Director of Kate Duncan Smith School, a DAR school in Alabama, and Capt. Stephen Yargosz, U.S. Navy, Commanding Officer Naval Station Great Lakes, who spoke of women in the military.
A highlight of the conference was the presentation of the Illinois Outstanding Veteran Volunteer Award to Michael Embrey. Embrey was nominated by the General John Stark Chapter for his deep commitment to honoring veterans and serving the community. From initiatives like the DeKalb Hometown Heroes Banners and the Sweets4Troops program to the establishment of the new DeKalb Veterans Memorial, he has made a lasting impact on veterans and veteran families, locally, regionally, and nationally. His advocacy for veterans is further evidenced by his efforts to secure dedicated parking spaces for veterans at both public and private business locations, and his role in co-founding the DeKalb County Veterans Recognition Fund. Additionally, his solemn duty as a bugler, playing TAPS at countless funerals and civic events, reflects his profound respect for the fallen and their families.
As a United States Air Force veteran, Embrey’s dedication to showcasing the DeKalb County area as a welcoming place for all veterans has had a significant impact. Thanks to his efforts, the City of DeKalb was honored in 2023 with the title of Illinois Veteran City of the Year and later recognized as the National Veteran City of the Year by the Forty and Eight veterans’ organization. This recognition not only acknowledged the city’s commitment to supporting its veteran population but also reflects Embrey’s tireless advocacy and leadership in promoting veterans’ welfare and integration within the community.
The letters supporting Embrey’s nomination for the DAR award paint a vivid picture of a dedicated patriot whose selflessness has profoundly impacted both the community and countless veterans. Describing him as a true patriot underscores the depth of his commitment to serving his country and those who have served it. These letters highlight Embrey’s unwavering dedication to making a difference, showcasing how his actions have not only left an indelible mark on the community but have also positively influenced the lives of numerous veterans. Embrey’s legacy is one of compassion, service, and a profound dedication to the well-being of others. His contributions are truly remarkable. The award from the Illinois DAR is the latest in a bevy of regional and national recognitions Embrey has received.
Embrey has helped facilitate the Memorial Day, Flag Day, and Veterans Day programs locally. He is a member of the DeKalb American Legion, DeKalb County Forty and Eight, DeKalb AMVETS, Taps for Veterans, and Bugles Across America.
In his acceptance speech, Embrey stated, “I am extremely honored to receive this acknowledgment from such a wonderful and dedicated organization like the Daughters of the American Revolution. I am humbled by this award, but it is important for me to continue supporting fellow veterans and veteran families—not for awards, but because it is the right thing to do. Another personal credo is to get other community, social, and professional organizations to support veteran causes.”
Embrey’s receipt of the award at the state level marks an important milestone, as it now progresses for further review and evaluation at both the DAR division and national levels.
Additional veteran-related awards were presented during the conference. Dawn Wexell, a member of the General John Stark Chapter, was named by the United States Vietnam War Commemoration as the Outstanding State DAR Member for outstanding accomplishments by an individual DAR member in honoring and thanking Vietnam War Veterans.
Established by the United States Department of Defense, the 50th anniversary commemoration serves as a means to express gratitude and honor Vietnam veterans and their families. Notably, the DAR stands as the Vietnam Commemoration’s largest and most steadfast Commemorative Partner, highlighting the organization’s commitment to recognizing and honoring the service and sacrifices of Vietnam veterans.
Wexell has been at the forefront of recognizing over 500 Vietnam veterans at traveling Vietnam Wall events, ensuring they receive well-deserved commemoration certificates and lapel pins. Her commitment further extends to volunteering at traveling Vietnam Wall exhibits, where she serves as an exhibit educator, enlightening visitors about the Vietnam Wall and the significance of honoring those who served.
Moreover, Wexell has selflessly served as an Honor Flight guardian on multiple occasions, accompanying veterans on their journey of remembrance and gratitude. Her involvement doesn’t stop there; she has collected hundreds of cards and letters for Honor Flight “mail call,” bringing joy and comfort to veterans during their travels. Wexell’s dedication also shines through her creation of library displays, specifically honoring Vietnam veterans, spreading awareness and appreciation in local communities.
Her efforts extend to community engagement initiatives. She orchestrated for the General John Stark Chapter to act as hostesses at Hy-Vee Veterans Day breakfasts, fostering a sense of camaraderie and gratitude among attendees. Additionally, she volunteers with Wreaths Across America, playing a vital role in placing holiday wreaths at the Rock Island National Cemetery, ensuring that the sacrifices of veterans are never forgotten.
Wexell’s multifaceted involvement and unwavering dedication exemplify the spirit of service and gratitude towards our nation’s veterans. Her actions resonate deeply, leaving a lasting impact on both herself and the veterans she serves.
Wexell stated, “Saying “thank you for your service” and “welcome home” are words many veterans have never heard, and their reaction to hearing them is often very emotional, especially when we present the veteran lapel pin. Veterans who did not serve in Vietnam often feel they are not deserving of our gratitude, but we believe that every individual who serves in the military contributes to the collective effort, and, therefore, deserves recognition and appreciation.”
Wexell will be recognized by the Department of Defense, United States Vietnam War Commemoration, at the 133rd Continental Congress at DAR Headquarters in Washington, D.C., this summer.
Reflecting on their experience at the Illinois State Conference, members of the General John Stark Chapter remain steadfast in their dedication to upholding the timeless principles and values embodied by the Daughters of the American Revolution, ensuring that the legacy of America’s founding patriots endures for generations to come.
The DAR, or the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution, is a lineage-based membership organization for women who are descendants of individuals involved in the American Revolution. Founded in 1890, the DAR is dedicated to promoting historic preservation, education, and patriotism. Membership in the DAR is open to any woman over the age of 18 who can prove lineal descent from a patriot of the American Revolution. The organization boasts a rich history of service and philanthropy, with chapters throughout the United States and internationally. For further information, please go to DAR.org or contact the General John Stark Chapter directly at generaljohnstarknsdar@gmail.com.
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