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Compatriots,
We have a busy month ahead of us!
First, the deadline for cheaper hotel rooms to attend the 149th Annual Board of Managers Meeting in Bakersfield ends Thursday, October 3rd. After that date, the hotel will not honor the $129/night negotiated rate. We’d love to see every Chapter in the California Society be represented at the Board of Managers meeting. If you would like to represent your Chapter, just have your Chapter President name you as a delegate by sending an email to our state Secretary, Chris Cerillo.
By now, I hope every Chapter in California is in full swing with the 2025 Annual Dues drive. As soon as you receive your dues notice, make your payment. We would like to wrap up dues collection by November 15th to avoid the Holiday Crunch! You will be doing a good thing for the Chapter and the State Society. Then, enjoy the Holiday Season!
SAR Fall Leadership is set for October 3-5 in Louisville, Kentucky. California will be represented by a dozen or so of our officers. During Leadership, we will get an update on NSSAR finances, membership, upcoming 250th Anniversary commemorations including the First Continental Congress, our Youth Programs, and the George Washington Endowment Fund (GWEF).
Speaking of the GWEF, contributions or pledges of $1000 or more entitle you to be known as a George Washington Fellow. SAR members, spouses, children, etc., are eligible. Once a George Washington Fellow, you are always listed as a George Washington Fellow. Your donation is a perpetual gift which never dies.
Speaking of the George Washington Endowment Fund, the California Society was just awarded a $4,000 grant for the 1776 Book Challenge that places 1,776 age appropriate and vetted books on the American Revolution in 5th Grade classrooms. This is a project first launched by the Sacramento Chapter and to date they have raised over $13,500 and placed more than 1,650 books in Sacramento area 5th Grade Classrooms. Riverside Chapter has indicated they also plan to adopt the 1776 Book Challenge. It is the hope that other California Chapters, with seed money from this one-time grant, will commit to launching their own 1776 Book Challenge. Contact Craig Anderson to learn more about this program.
We are now in the decade of the American Revolution. The Boston Tea Party kicked off the decade this past December 15th, 2023. In California we have our very own events coming beginning in 2025. The SAR traces our roots back to the Sons of Revolutionary Sires. Instituted on October 22, 1875, the Sons of Revolutionary Sires appears to be the first organization that actively encouraged membership by descendants of all Revolutionary War patriots.
We should start planning our own events celebrating the 150th Anniversary of the Sons of Revolutionary Sires. Let’s plan celebrations in Northern, Southern, and even Central California to recognize and honor the men of the SRS and our own Revolutionary War Patriot Ancestors. Put on your thinking caps and let’s make these celebrations come alive!
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Don Littlefield
President
California Society Sons of the American Revolution
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SAR Mission Statement
The Sons of the American Revolution honors our Revolutionary War patriot ancestors by promoting patriotism, serving our communities, and educating and inspiring future generations about the founding principles of our country.
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America 250th
Anniversary Recognition Program
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Currently: 184 Bronze, 116 Silver and 54 Gold
The California Society is second in the amount of Gold Medals that have been presented to Compatriots. Keep up the great work and enjoy learning about our Revolutionary War past!
To see your name and the recognition you have earned, go to our website Honor Roll – California SAR If you have any questions about the Honor Roll or how to enroll in the program, contact John Ferris.
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Do you know about the NSSAR Liberty Tree Project? To date, there have been 81 trees planted across the United States. You and your chapter can take part of this historic program. Click the link Liberty Tree Project to find out how! | |
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PG Manning’s America 250 Daily Minute
The last daily minute was sent on September 17th. At that time the webservice ceased to exist and the Daily Minutes were unable to be sent. PG Manning is currently looking for other alternatives. As soon as one is found you will be notified.
For questions, contact John Ferris, Executive Vice President at jrf1776@outlook.com for details.
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Decade of the American Revolution
Beginning with the Boston Tea Party and ending with the Paris Peace Treaty; 1773 to 1783 is known as the Decade of the American Revolution. Click the link and find out what you can look forward to and participate in in the coming years.
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Next Years Congress
July 12–July 18, 2025
Mohegan Sun Resort, Uncasville, CT
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Museum & Education Center | |
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The SAR Museum and Education Center is in construction. A multimillion-dollar effort is now underway to create one of the premier educational institutions in the United States concerning the American Revolution.
Get a glimpse of the progress and the finished vision watching this short video.
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Revolutionary War Rarities
The Sons of the American Revolution harks back to a wonderfully rich history that many of us are not completely aware of. Revolutionary War Rarities brings those odd and rarely told stories of the American Revolution to life in a short, interesting and entertaining format. Click the link and for the next 10-15 minutes prepare to learn and enjoy.
In this episode Zac Distel joins Jim Griffiths to discuss "Foreign Aid" in the form of weapons used during the American Revolution. Click
And don't forget to subscribe and click the like button! Doing so will help the entire SAR become more accessible to the American public.
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Decade of the American Revolution Henry Rifle Program
In honor of the 250th Anniversary of the Revolution, a special commemorative rifle will be offered annually for the next 10 years, beginning in 2023. Each edition will be offered for approximately 1 year, depicting a different scene from the American Revolution. A portion of the proceeds from each rifle sold go to support the SAR Education Center and Museum in Louisville, Kentucky.
The first rifle was a .22 caliber to commemorate the Boston Tea Party. The second, currently available, a .38/.357 magnum caliber commemorates the First Continental Congress. The next edition will commemorate Lexington and Concord, “The Shot Heard ‘Round the World.” It will be available for ordering in late February or early March and be offered in a .44 /.44 magnum caliber.
If you are interested in purchasing the 250th Anniversary Limited Edition SAR Henry Rifle, visit your local Cabela’s or Bass Pro Shops. Check it out at Henry SAR Commemorative Rifle
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PG Dodd with his new limited edition SAR Henry Rifle commemorating the First Continental Congress. | |
A Special Update on 250th Branding | |
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SAR has developed a new branding guide using the SAR logo with the 250th logo. The letterhead, forms and business card designs are the same, the changes are the fonts and the nomenclature, which are based on the approved SAR Brand & Engagement Guide of 2024.
The Forms & Logos page on the America250SAR.org page has the links to all new formats for forms and links to the new logos.
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149th Board of Managers Meeting
October 25-26, 2024
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Our upcoming Board of Mangers meeting will be in Bakersfield. This is a great chance to see many compatriots from the Kern Chapter. You can now make hotel reservations to stay by clicking the following link CASSAR BOM Fall Meeting.
Registration is now open at 149th BOM Registration.
Group Rate for Rooms expires October 3, 2024.
Reservation for Meal Deadline is noon October 15, 2024.
Please check the CASSAR website -- https://www.californiasar.org/event/149-bom-meeting/ -- for the latest meeting registration information.
| Children of the American Revolution | |
On September 8th, Executive Vice President John Ferris and Vice President South Brandon Villardi, along with members of the CASSAR Color Guard took part in the San Pasqual C.A.R. Society's reorganization meeting. The California Society honored the new C.A.R. Society by presenting them with an American Flag. The event was notably attended by C.A.R. and DAR State and National officers. In addition to presenting the Colors for the ceremony, the SAR also displayed artifacts and items from the Patriot Chests. | L-R: Lucas Villardi, Nolan Forrest, Brandon Villardi, Karlie Dice, C.S.S.C.A.R. State President; Sophia Kaufman, N.S.C.A.R. Curator; Julia Harr, C.S.S.C.A.R. State Vice President and San Pasqual Society President, Kevin Forrest, John Ferris | |
Flag Presentation by CASSAR Exec. VP John Ferris and CASSAR Cmdr Brandon Villardi | |
L-R: Nolan Forrest, Lucas Villardi | |
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C.S.S.C.A.R.
Shelter To Soldiers
Let's remember our younger Compatriots have a project they are asking us to support.
This year President Karlie Dice has chosen to partner with “Shelter to Soldier’s” a 501 (3) (c) located in Oceanside, CA. The organization saves shelter dogs and trains them as service dogs for post 9/11 veterans suffering from Post Traumatic Stress (PTS), Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and/or Military Sexual Trauma (MST).
Your support in the purchase of a pin makes a difference in so many ways. It's a small price with a great impact.
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Gen. George S. Patton Jr. Chapter | |
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On August 8th, Executive Vice President John Ferris joined the General George Patton Jr. Chapter at their booth at the Ventura County Fair. The booth was manned by Compatriots of the chapter led by Steve Andrews, chapter president.
The results from the outreach were impressive: They had 3 new inquiries to join SAR. There were 2 past SAR members who desired to be reactivated. One SAR member who moved into the area a few years ago now desires to transfer his membership to the chapter. Two private schools asked the chapter color guard to make presentations. Over 400 real conversations with people in the community regarding SAR were had. Thirty-two Veterans were presented with the Vietnam Veterans 50th Anniversary Lapel Pins.
An America 250 Minute was given each day.
| The Gen George Patton Jr pop-up SAR booth. | General George Patton Jr. Chapter President Steve Andrews | |
Chapter Compatriot and Past CASSAR State President Bob Taylor. | |
At the Harbor Chapter’s September meeting, President James C. Bunker delivered a presentation on the significance of Constitution Week, emphasizing the enduring importance of the document that underpins American democracy. Constitution Week, initiated by the Daughters of the American Revolution in 1955, reminds us of the Constitution's pivotal role in shaping the rights and freedoms of the nation. President Bunker encouraged compatriots to engage with their communities to promote awareness of the Constitution’s legacy. | |
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President Bunker also had the privilege of inducting five new compatriots into the Sons of the American Revolution: Brooks Roscoe, Luka Roscoe, Michael Mende, Shale Parker, and Jeffrey Tipton. He expressed his gratitude for their dedication to preserving the values of patriotism and service that the SAR upholds, making the meeting a celebration of both national history and personal legacy.
L-R: VP South Brandon Villardi, Luka Roscoe, Brooks Roscoe, Shale Parker, Michael Mende, President James Bunker
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James Gill (right) also presented the Military Service Medal to Philip Cooper (left) in recognition of his service to our country. | |
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Honoring a Legacy:
The Harbor Chapter Celebrates
WWII Veteran William Dillon
100th Birthday
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Harbor Chapter President James C. Bunker and Vice President Kyle Puro were honored to attend the 100th birthday celebration of William Dillon in Topanga on September 7th, paying tribute to a man whose service embodies the spirit of the Sons of the American Revolution.
Mr. Dillon, a WWII submariner and the last surviving crew member of the USS Sailfish, was featured at the Harbor Chapter’s April 2023 meeting, where he recounted his experiences as a radio and radar operator. His service during key patrols, including the rescue of Allied POWs, exemplified the courage and resilience of the Greatest Generation. Dillon’s reflections on the Great Depression shaping his generation’s readiness for war offered a profound reminder of the sacrifices that laid the foundation for modern America.
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The SAR’s commitment to honoring veterans was underscored when the Harbor Chapter presented Mr. Dillon with a professionally edited video interview capturing his life story—from his time in the Navy to his pioneering work as an electrical engineer on the Atlas missile and GPS programs. President Bunker also spoke on behalf of SAR and reminded the audience that Mr. Dillon’s impact goes beyond his family and that he has had a significant impact in the community.
During the celebration, Mr. Dillon shared that with organizations like SAR reaching out to honor his legacy and hear his experiences, it feels as though a new chapter of his life has begun. As we celebrate veterans like William Dillon, it is vital to remember the role WWII veterans played in shaping U.S. history. Their contributions, both during the war and in their civilian lives, remain central to the nation's legacy, and it is our duty to ensure their stories are preserved and honored for generations to come.
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On September 18th, the Orange County Chapter Color Guard along with Color Guard from South Coast presented the Colors at San Marino School for their Constitution Day celebration. | |
Color Guard presenting Colors in front of student assembly.
L-R: John Ferris, Jim Klingler, Larry Hansen, Mike Miller, Dyke Dooley, Mark Torres, John Blake, Jim Hernandez (SC)
| Orange County Chapter Website | |
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On September 20, CASSAR President Don Littlefield and Executive Vice President John Ferris with his wife Liz joined the Redwood Empire Chapter for their monthly lunch meeting. Much of the focus concerned veterans. In recognition of the POW/MIA anniversary the chapter charter was draped in black.
L-R: Executive VP John R. Ferris, his wife Liz Ferris, Chapter President William Van Valkenburg, and President Donald B. Littlefield, California SAR.
| The Gold Trail DAR meeting for Constitution Week included Jim Faulkinbury in uniform to lead the Pledge of Allegiance and Preamble to the Constitution. He then participated in a ringing of the bells ceremony which involved escorting Martha Washington and Betsey Ross to read off the names of the 13 states. | |
Jim Faulkinbury with ladies of the DAR.
Sacramento Chapter Website
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The San Diego Chapter enjoyed a nice turnout at the Hall of Nations in Balboa Park for our annual Constitution Day program. This was a joint program with DAR who attended in good numbers and provided coordination with a local teacher, Nora Bowman, to have a group of 8th grade students perform on the early days of America leading up to the Constitution.
For those that attended last year’s Tea Party reenactment this was in the same vein. The students were dressed in period costumes and their polished performance showed they had practiced the presentation.
Michael Hirman gave an informative presentation on the “Intolerable Acts” which tied into the student’s presentation.
A number of awards were presented that day.
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Jim McAdory presents the Bronze America 250th Anniversary Medal to supportive DAR members.
L-R: Renee Neale, Sandra Helt, Jim McAdory and Jenn Halter
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Jim McAdory presents the Continental Congress Medal to DAR members Jenn Halter, Teri Kidd and Nora Bowman for their leadership in putting together this year’s program.
L-R: Teri Kidd, Jenn Halter, Jim McAdory
| Finally, Jenn Halter of DAR presented Michael Hirman with the DAR America250 Medal for his leaderships and coordination with DAR for the past few years on America 250 projects in San Diego. | |
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At our September 17th dinner meeting our chapter we were honored to have CASSAR Executive Vice President, John Ferris and CASSAR Vice President South and Color Guard Commander, Brandi Villardi and his wife, Kelly, attend our dinner meeting.
Our September dinner guest speaker was Peter Small who reenacted the role of Thomas Jefferson, our Third President, President Jefferson, who was the Sage of Monticello, was a scientist, farmer, inventor, architect, and the principal author of the Declaration of Independence.
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Peter Small, aka Thomas Jefferson, holds his certificate of appreciation from the South Coast Chapter.
L to R: Brandon Villardi, Jim Hernandez, Kevin Forrest, Peter Small, Nolan Forrest, and Scott Whitman
| During the meeting, CASSAR Vice President South and Color Guard Commander, Brandon Villardi presented to South Coast Color Guard member Jim Hernandez the Bronze Baron Von Steuben Certificate and Medal. | |
On September 21st, CASSAR President Don Littlefield and CASSAR Executive Vice President John Ferris, had the pleasure of sharing lunch with Compatriots of the Thomas Jefferson Chapter. | |
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Seated L-R: Greg Owens, Past Chapter President; Dan Shurtz, Chapter President; Don Littlefield, President CASSAR, John Ferris, Executive VP CASSAR, Derek Brown, Past President of CASSAR; Robert Ebert, Past President of CASSAR.
1st Row Standing L-R: Robert Vernagallo, John Simmons, Applicant; David King, Phil Stage, Dennis Brimhall, Stephen Renouf, Past President of CASSAR; Tom Silva, Michael Emry, Jeff Nibert
2nd Row Standing L-R: Rawn Rhoades, LA Wood
Compatriots Rhoades and Wood were inducted during the meeting.
Welcome!
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Upcoming Color Guard Events
Open to all Guardsmen
10/25/2024 CASSAR Board of Managers Meeting - Opening Session / Post Colors
10/26/2024 CASSAR Board of Managers Meeting - Banquet / Retire Colors
11/9/2024 Riverside A Salute to Veterans Parade *Musket Firing Event*
11/11/2024 Veterans Day
12/14/2024 Wreaths Across America
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NRA Muzzleloading Class Available
Email Instructor to reserve your spot. David Premetz slixgunr@yahoo.com
Location: Escondido Fish and Game Association 16525 Guejito Rd, Escondido, CA 92027
Date: Saturday October 26th
Time: 8:30am - 3pm (approx.).
What to Bring: You will need to bring your own Musket, Powder, and Ball for this class
Cost: $175 paid in person via cash, or check
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Color Guard Magazine
The September issue of the Color Guard Magazine may be found at SAR Color Guard Magazine. The next issue will come out in September.
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For questions concerning upcoming events or inquiries into joining the Color Guard please contact:
Brandon Villardi, SAR California Color Guard Commander
Russ Kaiser, SAR California Color Guard Adjutant North
Kevin Forrest, SAR California Color Guard Adjutant South
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October 3, '24 -- Fall Leadership
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October 25-26, '24 -- 149th Fall BOM Meeting, Bakersfield, CA
- November 11, '24 -- Veterans Day
- December 14, '24 -- Wreaths Across America
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February 27, '25 -- Spring Leadership
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April 19, '25 -- 250th Anniv of Lexington and Concord
- April 25-26, '25 -- 150th Spring Annual Meeting, Costa Mesa, CA
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Every member who participates in SAR programs and interacts with youth under 18 years of age
is required to successfully complete SAR Youth Protection Training. Training is online, takes about 20 minutes, and is valid for 3 years.
Send your certificate of completion to Dan McKelvie: mckelvie@sbcglobal.net.
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"We will remember our compatriot brothers with thanksgiving."
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Cyber Scams
If you receive an email, text, or voice mail from a purported Officer or Compatriot seeking any kind of financial transaction, consider it a hoax. Phishing messages are very sophisticated and may include the unauthorized use of the SAR logo, a compatriot's name, or a pseudo SAR email address. Stop — Think — Verify !!!
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CALL FOR ARTICLES — August 22, 2024 Deadline
Please send news of events and high-resolution digital photos to:
John R Ferris at jrf1776@outlook.com
— RELEASE FORMS —
All photos or other materials that show or name any
minor under the age of 18
must be accompanied by a signed Release Form.
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The California Compatriot is the official newsletter of the California Society, Sons of the American Revolution. Unless explicitly stated, the opinions expressed herein are the opinions of the authors and not necessarily those of the California Society SAR.
Editor: John R Ferris
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