Prattville Dragoons Attend Alabama Division Reunion

The Alabama Division Reunion, hosted by the Emma Sansom Camp in Gadsden, was a huge success. Attendance was very good and included four Dragoons from SCV Camp 1524, compatriots Tyrone Crowley, Larry Spears, Dave Thompson and Josh Stover. 

There was a Commander’s Reception on Friday night at the Elliot Community Center and everyone enjoyed some delicious food and Southern Hospitality. Many old friends who had not seen each other in some time caught up on what has been going on since they last met. Great fellowship and many conversations went on well into the evening. 

On Saturday morning, those attending the Reunion gathered in the Elliott Center auditorium for the first business session. After presentation of the colors and remarks from dignitaries, the business session for the  Division convention commenced with officer reports and other important items. Commander In Chief Tom Strain was present and acted as Parliamentarian for the elections. Carl Jones, Mike McMurry and Tim Steadman ran unopposed and were elected Division Commander, 1st Lt. Commander and 2nd Lt. Commander by acclimation. A constitutional amendment and resolutions which had been submitted for consideration were presented. A full report of the convention business will be given at the next Camp 1524 meeting.

After a fine lunch, the convention re-convened and the Brigades broke out to meet and decide on the Brigade Commanders for the next 2 years. The Southwest Central Brigade will be led by new Brigade Commander Josh Stover as Past Brigade Commander, Butch Godwin, did not wish to seek another term. Butch deserves a Confederate salute for his tremendous service, his advice, assistance and encouragement that he has offered for the past 2 years of his term. He will continue to serve as a lieutenant to Josh in his new role. 

Saturday evening, was the traditional Awards Banquet. The meal was outstanding. The speaker was past Alabama Division Commander and Past Commander In Chief Norman Dasinger. His presentation was meant to inspire the SCV to keep our heads up and keep following the Charge. He emphasized there are many Confederate monuments and other displays in the country and the world and we should not despair in the face of attacks on our heritage. 

Many Division awards were bestowed on individuals and groups.  Camp 1524 won Brigade Camp of the Year and came in a very close second in the statewide Camp of the Year contest. Many Dragoons also received awards this year. 

Past- Commander Jimmy Hill has provided great leadership for the Division over his past term, leading us through some difficult times and was very instrumental in our Division putting up new mega flags and monuments in Alabama. At a time when our heritage was under a bold attack on all fronts, Jimmy has been steadfast in fighting back by displaying more of our heritage symbols. 

Photos below include new Division Commander Carl Jones; the four attendees from the Dragoons with Brigade Commander Butch Godwin; new Division 1st Lt. Commander Mike McMurry; and new 2nd Lt. Commander Tim Steadman.