Constitution Week Bell Ringing Hosted By Martha Dandridge Washington Chapter, National Society Daughters Of The American Revolution

In honor of Constitution Week, the Martha Dandridge Washington Chapter of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution held a Bell Ringing Ceremony on September 18, 2016. The event was held on the lawn of the Department of Education Building in the Historic Town Square in downtown Dandridge.

Kimberly Williams-Clabo served as Constitution Committee Chairman for the local Chapter. Ms. Clabo offered the Call to Order, as well as the Welcome and Introduction of Speakers. Major Russ Turner, US Army Retired and Commander of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3380 led the Pledge of Allegiance, following the National Anthem, which was performed by Caylin Aliese, the Presentation of Colors by the Color Guard for Tennesseans for Living History, Lynn Fox, Commander, and the Invocation offered by local Chapter Chaplin Elizabeth Finchum.

Several organizations representing Veteran’s services were on hand for the ceremony. Michael Wise, of the Veteran’s Service Office in Hamblen County recited The American’s Creed and Colonel John McGraw, US Army Retired, Surgeon, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3380 read the Preamble to the Constitution.

Regent for the Martha Dandridge Washington Chapter, Mary Cay Khiel, led the Salute to the Flag of Tennessee and the Color Guard Posted the Colors.

Major Turner, Presented the Jefferson County Mayor Palmieri’s Proclamation, followed by a vocal performance of God Bless America by Aliese. Key Note Speaker for the event was Dr. Kara Stooksbury, Chair of History, Political Science and Sociology; Associate Professor of Political Science Carson-Newman University.

Other special music was provided by Delany Doggett on the bagpipes and Scout Doggett on drums.