The Allentown chapter of the Honorary First Defenders was recently honored during a commemorative service at Zion's "Liberty Bell" United Church of Christ, Allentown.

The service, featuring choral music from the popular musical "Shenandoah," and the Civil War reenactors' color guard from the 96th Pennsylvania Regiment, was based on the soldiers' prayer books from the Civil War.

Terry Lee, photographer for the Honorary First Defenders spoke with The Press at the service.

"The men of the Allentown chapter of the Honorary First Defenders were the first group to go to Washington, D.C., to protect President Abraham Lincoln in the White House at the onset of the Civil War," Lee said.

Following the service, guests enjoyed barbecue sandwiches, potato salad, chips and dip, fresh fruits and vegetables, beverages and cherry pie provided by the Honorary First Defenders.

After lunch, guests were allowed to view the current Liberty Bell Museum exhibit "Civil War 150," which celebrates the end of the Civil War.