Martha Dandridge Washington D.A.R. attend George Washington Luncheon

Members of the Martha Dandridge Washington Daughters of the American Revolution attended a luncheon celebrating George Washington’s birthday on Saturday, Feb. 18, at Rothchild’s in Knoxville.

Mary Kay Khel, regent, joined other DAR leaders from across East Tennessee for the celebration of President George Washington’s birthday and his contributions to the early foundations of America. The event was sponsored by the Knox County Council of Regents, NSDAR.

Jess Hernandez, American Red Cross Director of Service to the Armed Forces, was keynote speaker. Hernandez offered a brief history of the American Red Cross (ARC), specifically focusing on the numerous services provided for military service members and their families.

Of particular note is the recent development by the ARC of Hero Care Panels created to address needs that range from emergency communications, pre-deployment preparedness, reconnection, Veterans Administration benefits, and community partner relationships designed to help these individuals adapt to the ever-changing demands placed upon them. Hernandez also praised the efforts of the DAR to provide programs and support for military service personnel worldwide.