Coral Gables DAR Chapter Summer Update: Vol. 1, Issue 1
On June 8, at the historic Thalatta Estate in Palmetto Bay, Florida, the South Dade Women’s Veterans Alliance (SDWVA) hosted a fundraising fashion show.
For nearly two years, the Coral Gables Chapter of the DAR has been committed to supporting SDWVA founder and veteran Julie Robison, along with her team, for the innumerable and invaluable ways they provide advocacy, support, and resources for veteran women. This effort has been led by our chapter’s Veterans Chair, Mary Ellen Scherl.
From planning the event through to handling last-minute details, and attending as guests, our DAR sisters were committed to making the evening both successful and memorable. The festivities began with a presentation of the colors by an all-female Color Guard, followed by Mary Ellen’s history of women in the military. Her speech was succeeded by the runway show, featuring local female veterans as models, with clothing donated by Macy’s.
Prospective DAR member Gina Anderhub took charge of the party planning. Past Regent Brenda Auer, newly-inducted Regent Patrice Bravo, and Hospitality Chair Elizabeth Harvey volunteered to assist Gina in crafting magnificent table decorations and generous gift bags. Gina orchestrated the magical moment of a butterfly release, inspired by the event’s theme: “Let it go, walking in my freedom.”
While great strides have been made since the days of Deborah Sampson—a woman who served during the Revolutionary War disguised as a man—our military women still struggle, not only while serving, but also upon returning home. Our Coral Gables Chapter stands in solidarity with our female veterans. We recognize the many invisible wounds they bear and the endless challenges they face in returning to civilian life. We also understand how difficult it can be to release the pain.
We are truly indebted to our female veterans for their service, sacrifices, and efforts in protecting our freedom and democracy. We hope that with the SDWVA, and our ongoing support, they will once again walk in freedom.