NAACP Holds 51st Annual Freedom Fund Dinner

By Jennifer L. Warren

COLD SPRING – “We went away to fight, and we came home to fight.”

These powerful words were exclaimed by Professor A.J. Williams-Myers, Keynote Speaker, about the African-American veterans who were so committed to and passionate about defending the United States of America.

“They fought to ensure freedom for all,” continued Williams-Myers. “If it was not for them, we would not be here; we need to honor our men and women.”

The Southern Dutchess NAACP did just that Sunday afternoon and evening, as they paid tribute to four of their own, on the local level, at the 51st  Annual Freedom Fund Dinner, held at the Chalet on the Hudson in Cold Spring.

Here, Sergeant, John E. Rembert; First Lieutenant Engineer, Walter M. Patrice; Corporal, Susan Barksdale; and Chief Warrant Officer #4, Bascom G. Durham were celebrated for their countless contributions during their military service. Fully clad in their sharply ironed uniforms and often seen standing erect and proud while saluting, each was extremely touched by their local NAACP’s gracious and active gesture of recognition for their years of service.

“This is not a discussion but a display of how much our sacrifice is appreciated,” affirmed highly decorated Durham after accepting his plaque. “Many people talk about how they admire that sacrifice, but this is action to show it.”

After reciting a poem about not ever quitting, Durham turned to those in attendance, and specifically alluded to the NAACP for their efforts directed at the evening’s festivities.

“Keep on doing what you are doing,” said Durham. “It definitely pays off.”

Another honoree, Rembert, was eloquently introduced by his wife, Shari Rembert, who could not have been more proud.

“My husband is a thankful man; everything he does is for God,” said Shari. “My husband does not see a color barrier; he is just there for you, and he wants to bridge the gap; it’s what we are supposed to be doing.”

Humbled by the honor, Rembert, who is now involved in local politics, still carries an unwavering passion to fight for the people.

“I am thankful for this recognition,” said Rembert. “We all need to know our past, so we are able to move forward.”

Barksdale, introduced by her daughter Sade as “my hero,” was also intensely touched by the NAACP honor.

“I don’t have the words to express how awesome this is; God has a way of having perfect timing,” said Barksdale, as she turned to her fellow recipients. “To all the veterans here: it is an honor to be standing here with you.”

Patrice, who recently turned 98, rounded out those awarded a plaque. He too was grateful for those he served as well as the people who surrounded him.

“We are a community,” Patrice proudly declared. “We always have been, one for all.”

Closing out Veteran’s Day weekend in a touching manner, Sunday’s event uplifted the spirits of many who attended, providing a glint of hope in what several spoke of as tough and challenging times. That reality was part of the reason Williams-Myers was so inspired to accept his guest speaker invitation.

“When I was asked to do this, I knew I had to, as here in the Hudson Valley is where it all began for me,” said Williams-Myers, a retired African-American Studies Professor, who has done extensive research on military history. “African-Americans did not give in or up; our  resistance was constant,” affirmed Williams-Myers. “We were there right at the forefront fighting, and the real beauty of America really is about its diversity, its rainbow.”