For 105 years the Sacajawea Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution in Olympia has been working to preserve history, promote education and patriotism. Currently, it has 94 members, many of whom are retired military themselves, who keep busy with a variety of endeavors to further their goals.

From participating in local Veteran's Day parades to being actively involved with the Ft Lewis Military Museum (when it is not closed for renovations), the local members of this national nonprofit seem to pop up at many official Joint Base Lewis-McChord events.

Jerri McCoy and Barbara Houtenbrink, both of whom have served as regents for the organization, agreed that their favorite event is the Massing of the Colors Ceremony, held on JBLM every year in the early spring.

"It is overwhelming to see all of the groups with their flags," said McCoy. The event, which is open to the public, features over 100 different flags and organizational colors posted together to commemorate those who have served our country, those currently serving, and those who will defend the nation in the future.

For the past two years, the Sacajawea Chapter has been involved in the Naturalization Ceremony held on JBLM in order to present the citizenship candidates with flag pins and show them support. Though getting approval to participate involved a fair amount of paperwork with Homeland Security, the ladies are thrilled that they can be there to welcome these new citizens into the fold.

"We also do a lot of work with the veterans at American Lake," said Houtenbrink, whose husband is retired from Navy. "We are constantly making and donating lap blankets, bibs and wheelchair pockets. We also get to attend the Christmas Party...that is very special to us."

The DAR ladies of Olympia are also connected to Bethel High School in Spanaway and present a JROTC medal annually to one JROTC student, either in their junior or senior year, who best exemplifies leadership and scholarship. The JROTC medal is one that can be worn by cadets during ROTC in college.