As Lt. Commander in Chief, my primary responsibility is to oversee recruiting and retention — the lifeblood of our Confederation. But that mission goes beyond just numbers; it’s about preserving and defending our history, symbols, and legacy for generations to come.

I intend to structure my efforts on two powerful fronts:

• National programs to set the strategic tone and provide resources, and
• Local support tailored to camps and divisions to maximize impact on the ground.

I will work closely with the CiC, Heritage Operations, and fellow Compatriots across all levels to unify and amplify our efforts.

1. Preserve Our History

We will fight relentlessly to protect our monuments, cemeteries, and historical sites from removal, neglect, and political erasure. This is non-negotiable — our sacred ground must be defended with the full force of our organization.

2. Protect Our Symbols

Confederate flags, uniforms, and markers aren’t just relics — they are proud symbols of our heritage. We will ensure they can be displayed respectfully and prominently, standing tall against all attempts to silence or erase them.

3. Teach the Full Story

We will promote the accurate and complete telling of Southern history in schools, museums, and public forums. This includes revitalizing youth programs like the Cadet Corps with real meaning — engaging kids aged 6 and up with newsletters, activities, and events that immerse them in the SCV lifestyle and legacy.

4. Involve the Next Generation

Our future depends on the next generation of Compatriots. I will form a dedicated sub-committee to craft a recruitment strategy focused on members under 40. We’ll back youth reenactments, cultural events, and digital engagement to bring them in and keep them loyal.

5. Defend Heritage Laws

We will back legislation that protects our monuments and memorials from political attacks and attempts at erasure. This legal front is as crucial as any rally or meeting.

• Recruiting & Retention Grant Program:
  I’ll allocate part of the Lt. CiC budget to fund divisional and camp-level recruiting efforts, modeled after the successful billboard campaign spearheaded by our current Lt. CiC, Tony Griffin.
• Targeted Outreach:
  Develop and deploy a multi-channel social media team to pump out consistent, compelling digital content that triggers algorithms and boosts our online presence. No more ghost accounts — real action, real exposure.
• Tools for Members:
  Distribute generic SCV business cards with QR codes linking to recruiting videos — easy to hand out without compromising personal info. Bring back promotional bumper stickers with our 1-800 number and website. Produce yard signs about SCV and heritage topics, easily accessible to all members.
• Share the Knowledge:
  Institute a survey of best practices so camps and divisions can share winning recruiting and retention tactics. Turn those insights into a recruiting and retention manual — plus videos for meetings and events.
• Incentivize Recruitment:
  Bring back the Dixie Award and introduce new rewards — like a drawing for SCV Store gift certificates for those who recruit or reactivate ten or more members. Recognition drives results.
• Visitor Engagement:
  Create handouts for visitors to the National Confederate Museum with info on our organization, how to join, and a survey link to capture interest.

This is not just a recruitment plan. It’s a full-spectrum war strategy for survival and dominance in the culture fight. Recruiting and retaining good Compatriots is how we build the army. Protecting our history, symbols, and rights is how we win the war.

I look forward to your ideas, fellow Compatriots, as we move forward to honor our past and secure our future.