The Captain John Collins Chapter gathered on March 17, 2026, at Hudson’s Grill in Kennesaw for an evening that highlighted courage, youth achievement, and the enduring power of Revolutionary War ideals. At the heart of the meeting was the presentation of two significant awards that underscored the chapter’s commitment to honoring both modern-day public servants and the next generation of patriotic leaders.
President Jim Poole opened the awards portion of the program by presenting the Life Saving Award to Cobb County Officer Bill Dessaure. This recognition honored Officer Dessaure’s decisive actions in the line of duty and reflected the chapter’s deep appreciation for those who risk their own safety to protect others. The Life Saving Medal presentation, also noted in the Public Service & Heroism Committee report, stands as a reminder that the spirit of sacrifice celebrated in our patriot ancestors continues in today’s first responders.
The chapter then turned to celebrate youth achievement as Bill Coffeen, Chairman of the Eagle Scout Committee, recognized Eagle Scout Abi Amos. Abi received the prestigious King Certificate from the National Society in honor of being the runner up in the state Eagle Scout competition, a distinction that highlights her dedication to leadership, service, and the study of our nation’s founding. Surrounded by family and guests, her recognition embodied the chapter’s mission to encourage young people who carry forward the values of citizenship and responsibility.
Vice President Jason Shepherd next introduced the evening’s speaker, Roger Hines, who presented a program on “Thomas Paine’s – These are the times that try men’s souls.” Drawing on Paine’s stirring words from the Revolutionary era, Hines challenged attendees to consider how those timeless ideas of perseverance, liberty, and moral courage still resonate in the challenges of our own day. At the close of his remarks, President Poole and Vice President Shepherd presented Hines with a Certificate of Appreciation, marking a fitting conclusion to a program that linked the chapter’s contemporary award honorees with the enduring principles of the American Revolution.
