Daughters of the American Revolution Annual Awards Day
Also recognized by the Pilot Rock Chapter of DAR were area students for good citizenship. High school seniors are nominated by school counselors. Deomonstrated qualities include dependability, service, leadership, and patriotism. These qualities are expected in home, school and throughout their community. Parker Glassmaker was nominated for MMCRU. He wrote an essay on a specific question and won. He was awarded $100.
Other high school winners for Pilot Rock Chapter are Kaylee Mattson, Alta-Aurelia; Sophie Thorson, Cherokee Washington; Eli Franken, Ridgeview; Karlee Shever, River Valley; and Michael Buettner, Sioux Central. Michael Buettner’s essay was selected by a state level judging panel as the winner from Pilot Rock. His essay will be entered into the Northwest Iowa Region. For his success he was awarded an additional $100. Other awards given were for Conservation award given to Cherokee County Pheasants Forever, Historical Preservation award given to the Cherokee Trail System and the Literacy Award. That was given to Friends of the Quimby Library.
River Valley Community School is the recipient of the HODAR Flag School. This award recognizes a “Husband Of a Daughter of the American Revolution.” The 2026 award is in memory of Donald Parrott.
Phyllis Eickholt was recognized for 50 years of service to NSDAR.
Pilot Rock Chapter of the National Society of Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR) held their annual awards day at Sanford Museum in Cherokee. The annual event opens with pomp and ceremony. It closes with a benediction given by the Chaplain, Elaine Leavitt.
The 2026 NSDAR Community Service award winner was the Marcus American Legion. The presentation of that award shared the inspiration of the organization and how it earned this recognition.
The Daughters of the American Revolution recognize individuals or organizations who have contributed to their community in an outstanding manner. This year our chapter chose to recognize the Marcus Legion.
Members of the Marcus Legion were unavailable to attend on Sunday February 1, 2026. Elaine Leavitt accepted on their behalf.
The process to received this award starts with an application which is sent to the DAR State Community Service Chair, if approved, a certificate(s) are awarded from the National Society.
Peggy Corrington presented the award saying, “I would share comments from the recommendations that were part of the Marcus Legion’s application.
Kayla Schroeder from MMCRU school described the Marcus Legion Organization as a valuable community partner consistently demonstrating commitment to service and civic traditions. They lead the annual Homecoming Parade through the dignified presentation of the Colors demonstrating pride and respect. The Marcus Legion provides assistance in the maintaining and updating of the Veteran mailing database. This ensures local veterans receive a personalized invitation to the Veterans Day Program every November.
Elizabeth Fisch, Funeral Director at Fish Funeral Home of Remsen and Marcus commented on the dedication of the Marcus Legion as they honor veterans, serve families and strengthen the community by raising over 250 flags for Avenue of Flags on Memorial Weekend. This group serves as color guards during military funerals. They maintain the Wall of Honor at Amherst Cemetery by adding names and caring for flags, plants and flowers around the wall. The group also takes nursing home veterans on outings, helps them attend appointments and assists with VA Benefit applications.
Today we wish to thank you for your continued service to make our area communities a great place to live.
Also recognized by the Pilot Rock Chapter of DAR were area students for good citizenship. High school seniors are nominated by school counselors. Demonstrated qualities include dependability, service, leadership, and patriotism. These qualities are expected in home, school and throughout their community. Parker Glassmaker was nominated for MMCRU. He wrote an essay on a specific question and won. He was awarded $100.
Other high school winners for Pilot Rock Chapter are Kaylee Mattson, Alta-Aurelia; Sophie Thorson, Cherokee Washington; Eli Franken, Ridgeview; Karlee Shever, River Valley; and Michael Buettner, Sioux Central. Michael Buettner’s essay was selected by a state level judging panel as the winner from Pilot Rock. His essay will be entered into the Northwest Iowa Region. For his success he was awarded an additional $100. Other awards given were for Conservation award given to Cherokee County