WASHINGTON, D.C. -- More than 3,000 members of the Daughters of the American Revolution headed to the nation's capital for its 118th annual Continental Congress. Opening night keynote speaker Lt. Col. Michael Strobl, the subject and co-writer of the HBO film "Taking Chance," shared his experience serving as military escort to bring home the remains of Lance Cpl. Chance Phelps, a young soldier killed in Iraq. Strobl also accepted on behalf of HBO Films the National DAR Media Award for "Taking Chance."

The opening night ceremonies also featured civil rights leader Dorothy Height, who was honored with the organization's highest award, the DAR Medal of Honor, recognizing her outstanding lifetime achievements in furthering equality and human rights. Entertainment legend and philanthropist Dolly Parton received the Founders Medal for Education for her literacy program Imagination Library. The National Defense Night keynote speaker was Gen. Ann Dunwoody, the first woman four-star general in U.S. military history. Aaron Tippin, country music star and celebrity spokesperson for various military support organizations, received the Founders Medal for Patriotism as well as performed during the National Defense Night ceremony, an evening that honors and celebrates our nation's service personnel and veterans.

In attendance at the Congress were Pauline Gramling, chaplain; Norma Godowns, vice-regent; Mildred Warren, honorary state president; and Ann Ella Adams, secretary of the Moultrie Chapter, which is based in Orangeburg. While at Congress, they attended the South Carolina Tamassee Dessert Extravaganza and the Pentagon trip planned by the S.C. Delegation.

Also in attendance were Anna Chandler, Frances Drayton and Shirley Dibble of the Henry Durant Chapter, which is based in Bishopville. While at Congress, they attended the Tamassee Dessert Extravaganza, Units Overseas Luncheon and National Defense Luncheon. Chandler served as escort for Gen. and Mrs. Blair Hanson.

The National Society Daughters of the American Revolution was founded in 1890 to promote historic preservation, education and patriotism. Its members are descended from the patriots who won American independence during the Revolutionary War. With more than 165,000 members in approximately 3,000 chapters worldwide, DAR is one of the world's largest and most active service organizations. For more information, visit

DAR.org.

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