In a fogged arena with a stage set in a museum theme, the 2000 NOAC History and Awards Show was presented last evening to more than 7,000 participants, staff and guests. The show integrated a living history lesson with the presentation of the Distinguished Service Awards, the Red Arrow Award.

With "Observe and Preserve" as the theme, the much-anticipated show began with the unveiling of a journal that was kept by a Scout named Edward Evans in the early 20^th century. Evans was inducted into the OA at the age of 17, a couple years after the organization’s creation.

"You know, it’s hard to imagine what the OA must have been like 85 years ago," said show host Chris. There are few written records of the early years of the Order, because there were no official historians. The author of the OA History Book, Ken Davis, was reportedly shocked when he learned of the journal. This is the first time that anything of this nature has been unveiled.

Another integral part of last night’s show was the presentation of this year’s DSA recipients. The 36 Arrowmen who received the honor gave service beyond the lodge level and were nominated by their peers. Less than 1,000 DSAs have been given in the Order’s 85-year history.

The show featured a special address by Chief Scout Executive, Roy L. Williams.  Also in last evening’s show, Southern Region Chief Jim "Jimbo" Cheatham unveiled the new Arrowmen Service Award. The award can be earned by an individual who focuses on three main areas of service: person, chapter/lodge and community. The 1999 Dr. E. Urner Goodman Camping Award and National Service Award recipients were also announced.

Red Arrow Award

Revised 8/01/00.