Prattville Dragoons Camp Meeting for May 2020 - 30th Anniversary of the Chartering of Sons of Confederate Veterans Camp 1524

Closely following Alabama Governor Kay Ivey's limited easing of the "safer at home" orders, the Prattville Dragoons held their first camp meeting since March coincidentally 30 years to the day since the camp was chartered on May 14th 1990 at that very same location, the historic Scott House in downtown Prattville.  To still observe social distancing precautions, the grounds adjacent to the Scott House, now the Prattville Creative Arts Center and Gallery were utilized as everyone set chairs about under the trees in the city park there to enjoy the sunset over the nearby Autauga Creek.   The camp's flags including the US, Alabama, Second National and Confederate Battle Flags were displayed and caught the eye of many passers by.  The Chaplain opened the meeting with an invocation followed by the pledges and salutes to the flags led by Color Sgt John Dennis.  Commander Waldo recited the SCV Charge and then welcomed the special guests which included former camp commanders Brent Moore and Wyatt Willis as well as former member Don Strength.   In all approximately eighteen members and guests attended the meeting, for many the first opportunity to leave their homes and gather with friends since the coronavirus pandemic flared up. 

Commander Waldo provided announcements including upcoming events such as the Alabama Division Reunion in Foley upcoming on Saturday June 6th as well as a camp cemetery workday at Robinson Springs called for Saturday May 23rd.  The reenactment of the Battle of Cuba Station will also be held soon on Saturday May 30th in Gainesville AL.  Quartermaster Bill Myrick gave an update on the Hunley awards which were provided to local high schools.  SCV membership renewals and the upcoming Dixie butt fundraiser were also highlighted.  Compatriot Tyrone Crowley was the guest speaker and he welcomed those special guests who included early camp members.  He set up a table on the grounds to display the original SCV charter for the camp, two newsletter awards for the camp, a photo frame showing old photos from past events and, a copy of a photo which was supposedly of the Prattville Dragoons in Pensacola from 1861 during the War for Southern Independence. Tyrone then provided a recounting of the tremendous work that those founding members of Camp 1524 made to the establishment of the Dragoons in Prattville and to the Cause including the raising of the I-65 mega Battle flag.  Commander Waldo recognized all the current Dragoons officers and the contributions they continue to make to the success of the camp and the local community.

Commander Waldo wrapped up the meeting with the SCV closing followed by a benediction by the Chaplain.  It was a great event to reunite after sheltering in place for the pandemic, a welcomed opportunity for fellowship and an amazing opportunity to recognize the very special occasion, the 30th anniversary of the founding of SCV Camp 1524.