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Happy New Year Compatriots!
Greetings and best wishes for 2025 as we embark on the 250th Anniversary of one of the most transformative years of the American Revolution. 1775 marked the open outbreak of armed conflict with the Battles of Lexington and Concord in April, leading to the formation of the Continental Army and the appointment of George Washington as its commander, effectively signifying the colonies' commitment to fight for independence from Britain. By year’s end, the revolutionary sentiment had spread across the colonies, setting the stage for the Declaration of Independence in 1776.
As a Society, this should prove to be a period of great rejoicing, of teaching of our youth and the public about the role our Patriot Ancestors had in bringing about our independence from Great Britain, the creation of our Constitutional Republic, and a nation of free men.
It is my commitment as we enter 2025, that we do so with the determination for a brighter future in 2025. Our organization, rooted in the ideals of patriotism, courage, and integrity, is at a pivotal moment in its history. It is critical that we redouble our efforts to not only grow our membership but to also inspire and embrace a new generation of leaders who can carry our mission forward.
We need individuals who share the SAR vision—men who are eager to commit, to lead with grace, and serve our communities. Membership in our organization is not just a title; it is a obligation to honor our Revolutionary War patriot ancestors by promoting patriotism, serving our communities, and educating and inspiring future generations about the founding principles of our nation.
Leadership is the cornerstone of our success. We need passionate individuals who are willing to step up, take charge, and inspire others. In 2025, we need leaders who bring together different perspectives, experiences, and backgrounds, that will embrace the SAR mission.
More importantly, our membership must be motivated. Our love for our country, our dedication to service, and our desire to educate those around us must fuel our actions every day. Let us remind ourselves that every individual effort contributes to the larger goal of fostering a stronger and more resilient California Society.
I urge each of you to reach out, to invite others to join us on this journey. Share your stories, your passion, and your commitment to our cause. Together, we can create a ripple effect that inspires countless others to stand with us.
In closing, let us embrace the challenges ahead with open hearts and unwavering spirits. Let us build a legacy that future generations will be proud of—a legacy rooted in patriotism, education, and community service. Together, we will succeed in 2025 and beyond.
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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: 192 Bronze, 128 Silver and 62 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 R 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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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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Spring Leadership
February 27- March 1, 2025
Louisville, Kentucky
| Registration for lodging now open. Click here to go to the SAR Spring 2025 Leadership page. | |
Congress
July 12–July 18, 2025
Mohegan Sun Resort, Uncasville, CT
| Registration for lodging now open. Click here to go to the SAR 2025 Congress page. | |
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. Each episode is 10-15 minutes.
This time we have two very special guest hosts tell us more about the history of Christmas in the United States. Be sure to watch this latest episode titled "Christmas Special" and "like" and "subscribe" to Revolutionary War Rarities!
Give it a watch today! 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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250th Celebration of the
Battle of Lexington and Concord
Hosted by the Massachusetts Society
and the New England District
Friday, April 18, 2025 - Sunday, April 20, 2025
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Surgeon General's Notebook, Volume IX
Compatriots:
Today's article concerns depression and the holiday season. This can be a very real concern for many people. I hope each of you has a happy holiday season and no one experiences a Blue Christmas.
John Turley, MD
Surgeon General, 2024-2025
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SAR Education Center and Museum | |
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The SAR Foundation is dedicated to preserving the legacy of our founding fathers and ensuring that the story of our nation's founding is remembered. The SAR Education Center and Museum will be more than just a building. It'll be a beacon of our history!
The Education Center and Museum is set to open in July of 2026. Construction is well underway, and we are making great progress. However, we need your help to make it to the finish line. Please consider making a donation to support the buildout of the SAR Education Center and Museum. Every dollar makes a difference!
Watch the video to see our progress and learn how you can support the project!
Click Here to Support the SAR Education Center and Museum
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TIME TO REGISTER!
Don't wait for the last minute!
150th Annual Meeting
April 25-26, 2025
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California Society Sons of the American Revolution Webpage | |
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Save the Date!
On Tuesday, February 25, 2025, at 7:30 PM PST, David Morrow, Genealogist, will host a webinar for chapter registrars, genealogists, and state leadership. An email will go out in early January notifying such of the Zoom link.
For more information contact David at davidmorrowla@gmail.com
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Something from our friends
in the DAR
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Eagle Chapter President, Benny White presenting the Arthur M and Berdena King Eagle Scout chapter award to Luke Thomas. | |
Eagle Chapter President, Benny White presents a Flag Certificate to Bill Fredericks representing the Bear Creek HOA. | |
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"A Nation Remembers: California Society SAR Color Guard Honors Pearl Harbor and the Heroes Who Answered the Call"
On December 7, 2024, the California Society Sons of the Revolution Color Guard, led by Commander Brandon Villardi, participated in a solemn Pearl Harbor Remembrance Ceremony aboard the historic USS Iowa in San Pedro, California. The USS Iowa (BB-61), the "Battleship of Presidents," has a storied history, serving in World War II, the Korean War, and the Cold War. Commissioned in 1943, it hosted Presidents Franklin D. Roosevelt and Dwight D. Eisenhower, symbolizing American military strength and resilience.
The ceremony marked the 83rd anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor, honoring the sacrifices of those who fought in World War II. H.D. Roosevelt, grandson of President Franklin D. Roosevelt, delivered a moving address on behalf of his grandfather. Reflecting on the nation’s response to Pearl Harbor, Roosevelt reminded attendees of the importance of remembrance and the enduring legacy of the Greatest Generation. The ceremony was enriched by the presence of several WWII veterans, whose bravery and sacrifices were central to the day’s reflection. Their stories were celebrated, ensuring that their legacy continues to inspire future generations.
Commander Villardi and members of the Harbor, Orange County, and South Coast Chapters’ Color Guard presented the flags with dignity, underscoring the Sons of the Revolution’s mission to preserve American history and honor veterans. California Society’s President Don Littlefield and Executive Vice President John Ferris were in attendance as well the president of the local Harbor Chapter James Bunker. Participation in National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day reaffirms the nation’s and SAR’s commitment to remembering the "indomitable courage" of those who perished at Pearl Harbor and calls on all Americans to reflect on the sacrifices of survivors and veterans, ensuring that their legacy of freedom and sacrifice is never forgotten.
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L-R: Brandon Villardi, Shane Gates, Nolan Forrest, John Ferris, Rhys Dalton, Mike Miller, Don Littlefield, Scott Whitman, Ken Winiecki, Jim Hernandez, Lucas Villardi, Kevin Forrest, Jim Olds. | |
L-R: James Bunker, President Harbor Chapter; Brandon Villardi, CASSAR Vice President South; H.D. Roosevelt, Don Littlefield, CASSAR President, John Ferris, CASSAR Executive Vice President, Scott Whitman, CASSAR Vice President, Membership. | |
L-R: California Color Guard Commander Brandon Villardi, Jim Olds, Harbor Chapter President James Bunker, and Dr. John Richardson.
"Harbor Chapter Color Guard Honors Veterans at 2024 Wreaths of America Ceremony"
On December 14, 2024, the Harbor Chapter Color Guard of the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) participated in the Wreaths of America Ceremony at the Los Angeles National Cemetery, honoring the sacrifices of veterans who have served in defense of freedom.
The cemetery, established in 1889, spans 114 acres and serves as the final resting place for more than 90,000 veterans from conflicts spanning World War I to the present day. Its hallowed grounds are home to soldiers, sailors, and airmen who gave their lives to preserve the values of liberty and justice.
The Wreaths of America Ceremony is part of a national effort to place wreaths on the graves of veterans, ensuring that their sacrifices are never forgotten. SAR members, including those from the Harbor Chapter Color Guard, played an integral role in the ceremony by presenting the colors and standing as living symbols of the sacrifices made by generations of American patriots. As a part of its ongoing commitment to honoring veterans, the Sons of the American Revolution works to preserve the history of the nation's founding and recognize those who have served in all conflicts. Through events like the Wreaths of America Ceremony, SAR ensures that veterans, from the American Revolution to modern-day conflicts, are remembered with the respect and gratitude they deserve.
| Harbor Chapter Facebook Page | |
CASSAR President, Don Littlefield attended the joint Holiday Celebration meeting of the Commodore Sloat Chapter DAR and Monterey Bay Chapter SAR December luncheon at Carmel Mission Inn, Carmel-By-The-Sea on December 17, 2024. | |
CASSAR President Littlefield with Monterrey Bay Chapter President, Jack Franke. | |
Monterey Bay Chapter Compatriot Lynn Malaznik with the Regent of the Commodore Sloat Chapter, NSDAR, Mary Potter and Jack Franke, President, Monterey Bay Chapter. | |
On December 14th at Brea Cemetary in Orange County, John Ferris, CASSAR Executive Vice President, gave the PG Proclamation to the Wreaths Across America attendees. | |
Orange County Chapter participants at Brea Cemetary for Wreaths Across America:
L-R: Liz Ferris, John Ferris, Phil Mitchell, Kent Gregory, Dyke Dooley, Jon Burk, and Matt Noell.
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Orange County Chater participants at Santa Ana Cemetary for Wreaths Across America.
SAR line members L-R: Jim Klingler, Mike Miller, John Blake, Dan McKelvie.
| Orange County Chapter Website. | |
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At the recent Redwood Empire Chapter meeting, six America 250th Bronze medals were presented.
L-R: Bill Nay, Gary Magnani, Karen Nay, Terry Leen. Kate Connell, Dan Van Valkenburg, Bill Van Valkenburg
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Jim McAdory presents the Principal, Kim Morton, with a Flag Certificate for the School. She and the teachers in the room were also presented with America 250 Challenge coins. | |
Compatriot McAdory represented the San Diego Chapter at a 90th anniversary celebration for the Linars Chapter of DAR held at the Green Dragon in Carlsbad. Linars Chapter Regent, Brenda Kaesler (above), and the chapter members put together an excellent program with Brenda reading from the Chapters well documented history. Members put on a “fashion” show of the period dress for each decade. | |
On December 9th SD chapter members participated in two Christmas Parades. The Color Guard was at the La Jolla parade again this year where they were greeted by a large crowd along the parade route. Members of DAR marched with them as well.
From the left, Gary Gauger, Alan Winters, Duncan Campbell and Doug Wright with DAR members grouped behind them.
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At the same time the La Jolla parade began, Jim McAdory participated with the Rancho Buena Vista (RBV) Chapter of DAR at the San Marcos Christmas parade. This parade was unusual in that each group was to use a “theme”. The RVB Chapter chose a military theme which complements their extensive support the Marines at Camp Pendleton. Most of the ladies are in camo including face paint and those not are leaving for another project at Camp Pendleton! | |
Our final activity of the month was the annual Wreaths Across America laying of the wreaths at Ft. Rosecrans National Cemetery. Our musket team along with a firing team from the U.S. Marines fired the traditional volley. | The teams take their positions. | |
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Fire!
Left to Right, Doug Wright, Gary Gauer Duncan Campbell and Alan Winters.
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Father and son team, Kevin and Nolan Forrest honoring the memory of those lost on December 7th on the USS Iowa. | |
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Combined Northern California Color Guard at DAR Wreaths Across America, State House Ceremony, California State Capitol, West Steps, Dec 9, 2024, Sacramento, CA.
L-R: Jim Riley, Harlie Smith, Derek Brown, Scott Nichols, Jim Faulkinbury, Steve Belden, Don Littlefield, John Hess, Russ Kaiser.
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For Wreaths Across America, the Yosemite Chapter participated in the ceremonies at Woodlake Cemetery.
L-R: Jim Riley, Scott Nichols, Harlie Smith
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Upcoming Color Guard Events
Open to all Guardsmen
03/08/2024 Laguna Beach Patriots Day Parade
03/22/2025 Swallows Day Parade – San Juan Capistrano
04/19/2025 Lexington & Concord ***Musket Firing Event & Parade***
04/25/2025 CASSAR 150th Annual Meeting, Costa Mesa
05/17/2025 Armed Forces Day Parade - Torrance
For details on these and many more click Color Guard Schedule
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Color Guard Magazine
The October issue of the Color Guard Magazine may be found at SAR Color Guard Magazine. The next issue will come out in January.
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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
Scott Nichols, SAR California Color Guard Adjutant North
Kevin Forrest, SAR California Color Guard Adjutant South
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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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Sacramento - David Stuart Allmuth - #154755
Sacramento - Fordyce Lee Osborn - #128435
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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 — January 25, 2025 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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