Photo By Sgt. Joshua Edwards | Elaine Johnson, founder of the Spc. Darius T. Jennings Foundation addresses community...... read more read more
ORANGEBURG, S.C. – Nearly 12 years after Spc. Darius T. Jennings was killed in action, his mother, Elaine Johnson continues to honor his service by hosting the 3rd Annual Appreciation Luncheon for Veterans on Nov. 7, 2015, at the National Guard Armory in Orangeburg.
The event coincided with monthly National Guard duty for Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 218th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade, who was conducting command and control operations training at the Orangeburg armory. The Soldiers were invited to attend the luncheon along with area veterans.
“Mrs. Johnson was nice enough to include us,” said Col. Jeffrey A. Jones, the commander of the 218th MEB. “We will never forget, and we will always stand by you.”
The partnership between Johnson and Jones began last year when the armory was double-booked for the annual luncheon and National Guard training. Soldiers were able to lend a helping hand to Johnson and her team members by setting up the armory for approximately 100 veterans. Johnson was so appreciative that she wanted to formally invite HHC, 218th MEB to this year’s event.
“This event is a positive aspect of wearing the uniform,” said Jones. “Hopefully our being here today brings strength to Mrs. Johnson.”
This year, the Soldiers of HHC, 218th MEB passed the hat during morning formation, donating $770 to the Spc. Darius T. Jennings Foundation, for which Johnson is the founder. Proceeds raised by the foundation will provide four college scholarships for high school students.
“Twelve years ago I didn’t know if I would be standing here,” said Johnson of the loss of her son. “My world came crashing down.”
Johnson spoke to a crowd of approximately 300 attendees of family and friends, and veterans ranging from the Vietnam War to Operation Joint Guardian, thanking them for their support of the foundation.
The luncheon included comments by guest speaker, Maj. Gen. Robert E. Livingston Jr., the Adjutant General of South Carolina, and Tommy Olds, president of the South Carolina Combat Veteran Group.
“Our Soldiers who were present sent a message of remembrance,” said Jones. “A message of love and support, not only to Mrs. Johnson, but to all of the 933 Gold Star Mothers across the U.S.”
| Date Taken: | 11.07.2015 |
| Date Posted: | 11.11.2015 13:25 |
| Story ID: | 181692 |
| Location: | SC, US |
| Web Views: | 119 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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