This award was named to honor the memory of Mrs. Thacher, who passed away on July 27, 1998. She had given 81 years of volunteer service to the American Red Cross. Mrs. Thacher began her career with the Red Cross when her 8^th grade class at Polk School in Topeka was asked to knit squares for soldiers in the First World War (1917). She continued to help by knitting for soldiers in World War II, as well as working blood drives and helping the community during the 1966 Tornado that hit Topeka.

For the past eight years, the Chapter has recognized very dedicated individual(s) who have displayed the Red Cross spirit. To honor these special people, we have a plaque that is displayed at the Chapter in the lobby.