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The Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) Color Guards play a vital role in preserving the legacy of the American Revolution and educating the public about the sacrifices and ideals that shaped the birth of the United States. As the most visible representation of the SAR, the Color Guard is the outward "face" of the organization, embodying patriotism, historical significance, and a commitment to honoring the nation's founding principles.
One of the primary functions of the SAR Color Guard is to participate in public events, ceremonies, parades, and educational programs. Their presence at these events serves as a powerful visual reminder of the Revolutionary War era, sparking curiosity and interest among spectators. The Color Guard members, dressed in authentic period uniforms, bring history to life and create a tangible connection to the past. This visual representation not only educates the public but also instills a sense of pride and appreciation for the nation's heritage.
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DAR District II - America250 Celebration
L-R Kneeling: Kevin Knapp (Sac), John Hess (Delaware Regiment), Russ Kaiser (Sac)
L-R Standing: David Beach (Sac), Bill Nay (REC), Steven Hoss (GCC),
Dale Ross (GCC), Derek Brown (TJC), Steve Belden (Sac), Ron Barker (GCC),
Craig Anderson (Sac), Dark Alvarado (Sac)
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The importance of the SAR Color Guard extends beyond public education. Our collaboration with the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) is crucial in fostering unity and cooperation between our two patriotic organizations. By participating in joint events and ceremonies, the SAR and DAR strengthen our shared mission of preserving American history and promoting patriotism. This partnership enhances the visibility and impact of both organizations, creating a cohesive and united front in our efforts to educate the public and honor the nation's founding.
The effectiveness of the SAR Color Guard is currently hindered by a critical need for greater member participation throughout California. As we approach the 250th Anniversary of the founding of the United States of America, the demand for the Color Guard's presence at various commemorative events is expected to rise significantly. Unfortunately, the current number of active Color Guard members is insufficient to meet this growing demand. The SAR is spread too thin, and there is an urgent need for more members with uniforms to participate in these events.
To address this issue, we must actively recruit new members and encourage existing members to join the Color Guard. This effort requires a concerted campaign to raise awareness about the importance of the Color Guard and the rewarding experiences it offers. Prospective members should be informed about the historical significance of their involvement and the positive impact they can have on public education and patriotism.
Additionally, providing resources and support for acquiring uniforms and training can help ease the transition for new Color Guard members. The SAR can also leverage our existing network and partnerships with other organizations like the DAR to identify potential recruits and collaborate on joint recruitment initiatives. Please don't miss more history and information on the Color Guard toward the end of this newsletter.
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San Diego SAR Patriot Grave Marking
L-R: Dan McKelvie, Phil Mitchell, Rob Welsh, Mike Miller, Brandon Villardi (Commander), Douglas Wright, Bruce Wearda, Jim Armstrong, John Ferris, Matt Noell
Front Row L-R: Kevin Forrest, Duncan Campbell, Jim Hernandez,
Nolan Forrest, Lucas Villardi, Kevin Bidenkap, Alan Winters.
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If we are to meet the growing demand for SAR Color Guards at upcoming commemorative events, especially during the 250th Anniversary celebrations, it is essential that we increase member participation in the SAR Color Guard. By actively recruiting new members and providing the necessary support, the SAR can ensure that our Color Guard continues to be a vibrant and effective symbol of American history and patriotism.
The SAR Color Guard is an indispensable asset in preserving the legacy of the American Revolution and educating the public about the nation's founding.
Thank you for your service to the SAR!
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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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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 XIV
Compatriots:
Attached is Volume XIV of The Surgeon General's Notebook: More Than Just Glasses—Eye Health for Adults. Maintaining good eye health requires regular examinations and I encourage everyone who has not had an eye exam within the last year to get one scheduled. Don't gamble with your vision, once it's gone it will never come back.
Wishing you all the best of health,
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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A Message from the State Secretary
Compatriots:
We begin 2025 on a good note! The California SAR Reconciliation did not require attention from National. But that doesn't mean there's no room for improvement.
Chapter Secretaries: It is incumbent on you to ensure that you account for Emeritus Members every year, not just recent additions. We have 17 Emeritus Members; this should reflect as it has since 2021. If a member dies, it is imperative you notify me. Please do not bypass the State by sending your death notices directly to National. This "shortcut" only causes problems.
With the Reconciliation behind us we can now focus on new member Certificates and Reinstatements. April is when these matters will begin to normalize, but keep in mind July to August National will be focused on Congress so once again Certificates and Reinstatements will fall to the wayside until September. With General George Washington and Mother Lode Chapters dissolved, please submit chapter transfers to me asap.
Respectfully,
Christopher J. Cerillo State Secretary
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California Ladies Auxiliary Corner
LACASSAR had a wonderful event at your BOM meeting in Bakersfield from October 25 – 26, 2024. The ladies social time was held in the hospitality suite on Friday afternoon, where we received a ”250 minute” on the First Continental Congress along with a US Postal Service postage stamp of the event, that had been first issued on the steps of Carpenter Hall in Philadelphia last September 7 to commemorate the 250th anniversary. Additionally, we enjoyed Boston tea, with shortbread and chocolates. We so enjoyed the social time that we decided to forgo the informal outings to Crystal Palace or antique row that we had planned.
Before it’s too late, we would like to thank the organizers of the conference, Jim Reilly, Scott Nichols and Don Littlefield, who cooperated with us to obtain the use of the space in the hospitality room and our meeting room on both days. Much forethought and time go into each of these meetings, and on behalf of the Ladies Auxiliary I would like to thank these gentlemen for diligently working with us, being attentive, available and whose cooperation led to the successful event. We would also like to thank all National visitors and CASSAR members who attended for their generosity to the raffle. It was a great success. The raffle raised $945. Of course, we are very grateful to your wives and families who donated items for the raffle, assisted in its set up and in selling tickets. It is this commitment that makes both our societies a success.
Liz Ferris, Acting President, LACASSAR
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Eagle Chapter President Benny White presents the Bronze 250 award for C.A.R. Steven Rudolf at a recent Temecula Creek C.A.R. meeting. | |
Eagle Chapter President Benny White presents the Bronze 250 award for C.A.R. Jay Rudolf at a recent Temecula Creek C.A.R. meeting. | |
On Monday, February 20, Harbor Chapter members Brandon Villardi, Kelly Villardi, Lucas Villardi, Ken Winiecki, and John Richardson visited 5th-grade classes at Caroldale Learning Community in Carson, CA. | |
With about 100 students in attendance, they gave a presentation on Lexington and Concord, promoted the SAR 5th Grade Poster Contest, and showcased artifacts from the Patriot Chest. | |
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Harbor Chapter SAR Colorguard members, along with Exec VP John Ferris, and CG Adjutant South Kevin Forrest proudly presented colors at the DAR District XIII 250 Plaque unveiling in Whittier, CA on February 15th.
From left to right: John Richardson, Ken Winiecki, Lucas Villardi, Kevin Bidenkap, John Ferris, Kevin Forrest, Brandon Villardi.
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Esteemed guests included Senator Bob Archuleta, Supervisor Janice Hahn, Assemblywoman Blanca Pacheco, and Jim Zenner LA County Military and Veterans Affairs. | |
On February 25th, Orange County Chapter member and California SAR Ex. VP John Ferris gave a presentation on the beginning of the SAR and the America 250th Anniversary Recognition Program to the Luiseno Chapter of DAR in Temecula. | |
SAR Redwood Empire Chapter Color Guard Commander Bill Nay (right) and Past President Bill Van Valkenburg (left) conducted a Decade of the American Revolution presentation for the 5th Grade Classes at Sequoia Elementary School in Santa Rosa. | |
The 5th grade faculty, Chelsea Borell and Sarah Peterson, were presented with the CASSAR Coin by Bill Nay. | |
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The San Diego Chapter of The Sons of the American Revolution hosted our annual dinner in honor General George Washington's 293rd Birthday on 22 February 2025 at the Green Dragon Museum & Tavern in Carlsbad. This is the third year of hosting this event and once again we had a nice turnout of SAR and DAR members although we missed our CAR members as they were at their annual meeting the same weekend.
We were joined by Western District VP Brian Stephens and his wife Dianne, CASSAR President Don Littlefield, CASSAR Executive VP John Ferris and his wife Liz, CASSAR SAR National Trustee Jim Klinger along with Jen Halter the California State District 14 Director. Chapter President Jim McAdory began the program with brief remarks followed by President Littlefield.
The program opened with the musket team marching into a firing position outside the venue and assuming a firing position for a 3-round volley. SDSAR thanks all of those that participated, especially Kevin Forrest for his leadership with this effort. This is a major highlight of the evening.
Our keynote speaker was Patrick Martin who brought to life Billie Lee who was George Washington’s servant and spent much of his life with George Washington. Even after being freed Lee continued to live at Mt. Vernon. He had many interesting tidbits and nuggets of wisdom from Washington.
The big event of the evening was awarding Patriot Grave Marking medals to those present. Of the 41 that qualified for the medal at last year's Labor Day ceremonies, 22 were at the gathering to receive their certificate and medal. There were other awards as well with Ashley Hobbins presented the America 250 Gold Medal by VP Ferris and Darlene Cook receiving the Bronze America 250 medal. Longtime San Diego Sergent-at-Arms was awarded the well-deserved Bronze Meritorious Service Certificate and medal.
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The musket team led by Kevin Forrest. | |
DAR ladies and HODAR pause after the musket firing for a group photo. | |
The San Diego Chapter Color Guard led by Doug Wright. | |
Patrick Martin brings the person of Billie Lee to life. | |
John Ferris speaking on the America 250 program. | Chapter President, Jim McAdory, presents Darlene Cook of DAR with the Bronze America 250 medal. | |
Chapter President presents SD Chapter's Past Sargent-at-Arms, Gary Newton, with the Meritorious Service Certificate and medal. | Don Littlefield, CSSAR President, (left) and Jim McAdory, SDSAR President, preparing to present the Patriot Grave Marking medals. | |
The San Diego Chapter presents President Littlefield with a declaration of appreciation for his leadership and assistance in the Patriot Grave Marking project. (left to right) Jim Klingler, Kevin Bidenkamp, Don Littlefield, Jim McAdory and Michael Hirman. | |
Those receiving the Patriot Grave Marking award, we think this is the largest number of recipients of this award at a single time in SAR history and likely the largest number of Patriot graves commemorated in a single day. In all, 41 members earned the PGM in one day. | |
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Thomas Jefferson Chapter
The Thomas Jefferson Chapter is celebrating 100 years this October. See Flier for details.
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The Yosemite Chapter had a guest speaker for their regular meeting, Dr Mike McCoy, Executive director of the Kern County Museum. He spoke on "A Western Destiny, The Story of the Kern Brothers”. The presentation included a lot of information about Capt. John C Fremont’s 4th expedition to California, which was a huge disaster. We had 15 members present for the meeting and two on Zoom. | |
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On February 8th and 9th, members of the SAR, DAR, and C.A.R came together at the Huntington Beach Revolutionary War Living History and Reenactment. The event, which draws an estimated 10,000 spectators annually, provided a unique opportunity to engage with the public and bring history to life.
Throughout the weekend, SAR, DAR, and CAR members interacted with attendees by displaying and discussing items from their “Patriot Chests,” showcasing artifacts, clothing, and tools used during the Revolutionary War era. This hands-on experience allowed visitors to gain a deeper understanding of 18th-century life and the sacrifices made by those who fought for American independence.
The event featured live battle reenactments, encampment displays, and demonstrations of colonial crafts and military drills. Many families, students, and history enthusiasts stopped by to learn about the contributions of Revolutionary War patriots and the mission of SAR, DAR, and CAR in preserving and promoting our nation’s history.
Participation in this event exemplifies the collaborative efforts of SAR, DAR, and CAR to educate the public, honor our ancestors, and inspire future generations. Thank you to all who took part in making this weekend a success!
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From left to right: Sophia Kaufman C.A.R, Kristen Kaufman C.A.R / DAR, Emily Boling C.A.R / DAR, Alexa Villardi C.A.R, Brandon Villardi SAR / C.A.R, Kelly Villardi C.A.R / DAR, Kevin Bidenkap SAR / CAR, Kevin Forrest SAR / C.A.R, Lucas Villardi SAR, Nolan Forrest SAR, Jim Hernandez SAR. | |
On February 17th, The CASSAR Color Guard proudly presented the colors at the District VIII America 250 Plaque Dedication at Veterans Historical Plaza in Santa Clarita. The event, attended by DAR State Regent Christina Ramos and other State officers, commemorated the 250th anniversary of American independence.
Color Guard members included Kevin Bidenkap (Harbor), Brandon Villardi (Harbor), Jerry Hayes (Gen. G.S. Patton), and Bruce Wearda (Kern).
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A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE NATIONAL SAR COLOR GUARD
The National SAR Color Guard was established in 1989 during the tenure of President General James R. Westlake (GA). It was formed as the National Society Color Guard Committee under the leadership of Compatriots David Judson Gray and Donald Norman Moran. Initially, the National Color Guard comprised six compatriots representing five state societies.
The primary objectives of the Color Guard were to:
- Provide guidance and coordination for State Society and Chapter Color Guards during National Congresses and Trustee meetings.
- Assist State Societies and local Chapters in forming their own Color Guards.
By 2000, the National Color Guard had expanded to 32 members representing 14 state societies. Today, more than 50 members from over 25 state societies actively participate in the National Society SAR's three annual meetings. The National Color Guard has become the most visible public representation of the Sons of the American Revolution.
Color Guardsmen serve as a distinctive and recognizable presence at parades and memorial events, offering a vibrant display of uniforms and flags that attract public interest. Their presence often encourages children, spectators, and potential members to engage and learn more about the American Revolution.
Donald N. Moran also played a key role as the California Society's first State Commander following the creation of the California Society Color Guard. Below is a list of California Society State Color Guard Commanders:
- 1984-2003 — Donald N. Moran — Sons of Liberty Chapter
- 2003-2004 — Charles R. Lampman — Riverside Chapter
- 2004-2005 — Thomas H. Chilton, Jr. — Sacramento Chapter
- 2005-2009 — Donald N. Moran — Sons of Liberty Chapter
- 2012-2016 — James C. Fosdyck — Orange County Chapter
- 2016-2021 — Mark W. Kramer — Riverside Chapter
- 2021-Present — Brandon Villardi — Harbor Chapter
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Upcoming Color Guard Events
Open to all Guardsmen
• March 14 - DAR State Conference - Post colors for Morning Session - 09:00am - Burlingame, CA
• March 15 - DAR State Conference - Post Color for Formal Banquet - 06:00pm - Burlingame, CA
• March 22 - Swallows Day Parade 10:00 am San Juan Capistrano, CA
• March 26 - Coast Guard Auxiliary Color Presentation - 06:30pm Huntington Beach
• April 05 - San Joaquin Valley CAR Organizing Meeting - 11:00am Turlock, CA
• April 12 - El Redondo Luncheon 11am Palos Verdes - Registration required for meal. Register by March 15th for discount
• April 12 - Yosemite Chapter to present and post colors for Yosemite Chapter DAR in Fresno, approx. 930 AM
• April 19 - Battle of Lexington and Concord - 10:00am - Balboa Park San Diego, CA (Reenactment style)
• April 25 - CASSAR Annual Meeting - Opening Session - 08:00am - Costa Mesa, CA
• April 26 - CASSAR Annual Meeting - Memorial Service – 1pm - Costa Mesa, CA
• April 26 - CASSAR Annual Meeting - Formal Banquet and Retirement of Colors - 6:30pm - Costa Mesa, CA (Registration Required)
• April 30 - Yosemite chapter to present Colors for Central Valley Honor Flight, Fresno Air Terminal, approx. 6PM
• May 10 - 250th Anniversary of 2nd Continental Congress - Lake Tahoe, CA 10am muster (Registration Required) Flier
• May 17 - Armed Forces Day - 12pm - Torrance, CA (Colonial attire preferred or Patriotic Attire welcome) Flier
• May 22 - Fields of Honor - 09:00am Castaway Park, Irvine, CA
• May 24 - Flag Placement Ceremony - Present Colors during morning ceremony - 07:00am LA National Cemetery Los Angeles
• May 25 - Yosemite Chapter to present Colors at Clovis Community Concert Band event, Clovis, CA approx. 1 pm
• May 26 - Memorial Day - Multiple invitation. More information to come
o Harbor – LA National Cemetery - 08:00am – Los Angeles, CA
o South Coast - 09:00am - El Toro Memorial Park
• June 14 - Yosemite chapter in joint meeting with Yosemite Chapter DAR, Present and Post colors, approx. 0930. Fresno.
• June 20 - CAR Western Regional Meeting - Knotts Berry Farm Hotel and Independence Hall (Multiple Events starting at Noon)
• July 4th - Independence Day - Multiple invitations.
o Harbor / OC / South Coast - Huntington Beach Parade - Huntington Beach, Ca Muster- TBD
o OC - Let Freedom Ring - 05:45pm - Cerritos, CA
o Yosemite Chapter to present Colors at Fresno Grizzlies baseball game, approx. 730PM, Fresno
For details on these and many more click Color Guard Schedule
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Looking for more information on joining the Color Guard?
Uniforms & Period Clothing
Townsend & Son, Inc.
https://www.townsends.us/
18th Century Clothing
Black Wool Felt Tricorn
Revolutionary War Regiment Coat
Revolutionary War Regiment Coat - off the rack
1770's Waistcoat in Linen
Fall Front Trousers in Linen
Fall Front Knee Breeches - Colored Cotton Canvas
Seamstress:
Many of our guardsmen in SoCal use Sharon Urich as our tailor for custom uniforms. Sharon is based in Michigan and used to make uniforms for the US Army Old Guard.
Name: Sharon Urich
Phone: (313) 330-1808
Email: sewsewsharon1@gmail.com
Website: https://sharonsewsew.com/
Order Form Sew! Sew! Military Uniforms and Historical Clothing
Uniform styles – Use password “Patriot”
https://sar.smugmug.com/Color-Guard-Uniforms/n-kF4cGh/
History of Color Guards:
Color Guards have a rich history rooted in military traditions. The primary role of a Color Guard is to carry and protect the national flag and other flags of symbolic importance. This tradition dates back centuries, with origins in ancient civilizations and medieval armies. During battles, flags were crucial for identifying troops and rallying soldiers. The Color Guard was responsible for safeguarding these flags and ensuring their visibility on the battlefield.
Over time, the role of the Color Guard expanded beyond its military function and began to incorporate elements of artistic expression and performance. In the late 19th century, military-style marching bands gained popularity, and Color Guard became an integral part of their performances. The synchronized movements and elaborate routines of the Color Guard complemented the music played by the band, creating a visually captivating spectacle.
Today, Color Guards are still an essential part of military ceremonies, parades, and official events. They represent honor, patriotism, and precision, showcasing the professionalism and dedication of the armed forces.
Battlefield History of Color Guards:
Color Guards played a crucial role on the battlefield, serving as a symbol of unity, morale, and communication.
Here are some key aspects of their importance:
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Symbol of Unity and Morale: The presence of the national flag and other regimental colors provided a rallying point for soldiers. It boosted their morale and reminded them of their cause and duty. The sight of the flag flying high amidst the chaos of battle was a powerful motivator.
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Communication and Coordination: In the heat of battle, communication was often challenging. The Color Guard's position helped commanders and soldiers identify their units and maintain formation. The movement of the flag signaled troop movements, attacks, and retreats, ensuring coordination on the battlefield.
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Protection of the Flag: The Color Guard was responsible for safeguarding the flag at all costs. Losing the flag to the enemy was considered a significant disgrace, while capturing the enemy's flag was a symbol of victory. The Color Guard's bravery and determination to protect the flag were vital to maintaining the unit's honor.
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Inspiration and Leadership: The Color Guard often consisted of the most courageous and skilled soldiers. Their presence inspired others to fight with determination and bravery. The Color Guard's actions set an example for the rest of the troops, encouraging them to follow suit.
Overall, the Color Guard's role extended beyond mere symbolism; they were integral to the battlefield's dynamics and the soldiers' spirit.
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Color Guard Magazine
The January issue of the Color Guard Magazine may be found at SAR Color Guard Magazine.
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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
San Diego - Ernest John Shea - #198311
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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 — March 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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