On September 15, 2014 the Executive Board of the South Georgia Council of the Boy Scouts of America will be honoring one of our leading citizens – one who has not only contributed a great deal to Scouting, but has also made immense contributions to our community. 

This year’s unanimous choice for the bi-annual award is Colonel Clarence S. Parker, who has taken an active role in our community for many years. He is committed to a host of endeavors that have greatly impacted all the citizens of our community and our country. 

A graduate of the University of Maryland with a Bachelor of Science degree, and George Washington University with his Master of Business Administration degree, Col. Parker proudly served his country in the United States Air Force from 1942 through 1971. He served in numerous command and staff assignments in Europe, North Africa, Southeast Asia, various Air Bases in the United States, including two assignments in Air Force Headquarters in Washington, DC, one year in Vietnam in the Operations Staff of General Westmoreland’s Headquarters, Wing Commander of Moody AFB from April 1968-January 1971. His military decorations include the Legion of Merit and the Order of the British Empire. He served on the Berlin Airlift 1948-1949. 

He retired as a Colonel and shortly thereafter, returned to Valdosta not to retire, but to continue his lifetime of work and service at First National Bank of Valdosta for another 16 years. He was also Chairman of the Valdosta Lowndes County Airport Authority from 1987 to 2004, and a commercial pilot, accumulating approximately 7,500 hours of flying time. 

Col. Parker has been heavily involved in Valdosta County Club, First Presbyterian Church, Trinity Presbyterian Church, American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Air Force Association, Order of Daedalians, Chamber of Commerce, and the Executive Board of the South Georgia Council, Boy Scouts of America, and is a recipient of the Silver Beaver Award. 

In recognition of Col. Parker’s contributions to our community, Senator Saxby Chambliss has agreed to participate as the evening’s speaker. Again, the Distinguished Citizen’s Award Banquet will take place on September 15, 2014 at the Valdosta State University Student Union Ballroom with a social hour at 5:30 and the program beginning at 6:30. Tables of eight may be purchased for $1,200 or individual seats for $150.00 per person.

If you have any questions, please contact Johnny Dukes at (229) 244-0327 or [email protected].