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Compatriots,
Summer is here and it feels as if time is flying by. The weather where I live is hot one day and cool the next. While the coolness is sure not to last, the change is comforting for now.
Summer is a time when many of our chapters go silent, but individual activities should continue. As I mentioned in my last message, this is a great time for barbeques with fellow compatriots. A chapter whose members only meet once a month is not as strong as when members meet outside the chapter for social or, better yet a service gathering helping out the community.
I know sometimes ideas are not always forthcoming, so reach out to your local DAR chapter or C.A.R. Society and do some brainstorming. There is a lot of good we can do together and a lot of fun to be had while doing it.
Many of you are going to Congress and that should be a great event seeing friends from across the country and getting all caught up on the latest workings of the SAR. We have another Compatriot from California who will be receiving the Minute Man award. Dan McKelvie will be wearing the white jacket, receiving the blue ribbon for all his hard work and dedication to making the SAR Museum Center become a reality. Be sure to offer congratulations when you see him. And, if you have not already, please consider making a donation, small or large, to the Museum. You will be continuing the legacy started 250 by your Patriot ancestor.
There is a change in our state program chairs. Coachella Valley Compatriot Dave Arthurs is now the new Patriot Research System Chair. Dave brings enthusiasm and experience to the role. Dave has been involved in one way or another in genealogy for 45 years and has already entered 170 Record Copies into the PRS system. He has also written two books on genealogy with two more on the way. A valuable addition to our team, please give Dave your congratulations when you see him. In fact, you might even think of asking him how you can participate in the entering of record copies yourself. Just one more way to keep our Patriot Ancestors alive.
Registration for the Fall Board of Managers is now open. It will be held at the same place as last Aprils’ Annual meeting. I can’t stress enough how your presence (i.e. your participation) makes the difference between an ok meeting and a great meeting. Old timers and new timers make for a fun time. We are a big state with a lot of members. The state becomes smaller, and our decisions become better when we all get together. I hope to see you in October. Contact me with any questions you may have about attending.
Recently, the Luiseno Chapter in Temecula sent me a bound book to be presented to the SAR Library. It was one of their America 250 projects and contains stories of their Patriots. It will make a wonderful addition to our Library in Louisville. Their gift gave me an idea that we could do the same thing. Starting with this issue we will begin to present our own Patriots of the Month by their descendant California SAR Compatriots...you. These stories should be documented and already listed on the SAR website. I am starting with my original Patriot Ancestor, Henry Sanders of the South Carolina Militia.
The purpose of this is to familiarize ourselves with the many colorful stories belonging to our Patriot Ancestors (which is one goal of America 250 SAR) as well as increase the number of stories that are submitted to SAR so that future generations may benefit from our hard work. If we get enough of these stories, it’s possible that California SAR may one day publish its own volume of Patriots to be presented to the SAR Library. Your participation, as always, is the key.
Finally, it’s always important to remember the wonderful heritage you have. By birth and your perseverance of membership, you are a Son of the American Revolution. While you may be the 6th, 7th, 8th, or 9th grandson of a Patriot, you are a Son of the Revolution. Your Patriot was successful in achieving victory. Our victory will not be defined by belonging to this Society, but by participation. So please, think about being a program chair for one of the many youth programs, working with the DAR or C.A.R. or raise your hand for the many chapter and state leadership roles. Your participation truly makes the difference!
Respectfully,
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John R Ferris
President
California Sons of the American Revolution
714.270.7092
Jrf1776@outlook.com
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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: 210 Bronze, 147 Silver and 67 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.
| | 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! | | |
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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Proclamation of the Sons of the American Revolution Recognizing the 250th Anniversary of the United States Army
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Celebrating America 250
First Marine Amphibious Assault Landing
The Florida SAR is planning to erect a monument that will commemorate the first amphibious assault landing on foreign soil by Revolutionary War Continental Marines. This occurred on 3-4 March 1776 in the Bahamas. They are trying to get the monument completed in time for a ribbon-cutting ceremony on 7 March 2026, in time for the 250th anniversary of the historic event.
Click the link for more details.
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Announcing the Approval of the “General Casimir Pulaski Founders Medal”
The National Society and the Registrar General are very pleased to announce the approval of the General Casimir Pulaski Founders Medal, a new medal recognizing the founding members of newly chartered chapters.
Click here for more Click here for more information
| | | | NSSAR Operational Plan 2030 | | |
Did you ever want to know where the SAR is heading? What are its goals and objectives. Click the link to review the latest draft of the SAR's 5-year operational plan. It is a draft, so they are looking for input. It is a great way to understand who we are and where you fit into the organization.
NSSAR Operational Plan 2030
| Dr. Joseph Warren Documentary Coming Soon! | |
Dear SAR Compatriots,
The SAR has a unique opportunity to further entrench itself as a leader in historic preservation, education and inspiration for generations to come. The Dr. Joseph Warren Foundation—a 501c3 nonprofit—is hard at work to complete a full-length documentary about founding father, Dr. Joseph Warren. The goal is to complete the documentary by the spring of 2026. Dr. Joseph Warren gave his life for our country before we were the United States of America. We owe it to his revolutionary spirit to commemorate and celebrate his legacy and educate the succeeding generations of patriots.
The unique opportunity is for SAR (as a key sponsor) is to have an “on screen” presence during the prolog of the film. Being interviewed to explain why the core values, bravery and patriotism so important then, are just as important today. As we state, the SAR mission is to carry on education and patriotic values to inspire generations to come. If we don’t lead by example to ensure the Dr. Joseph Warren legacy prevails, then who will?
What we have:
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Partnership with the DJWF on continued education and exposure (websites, logos, links) www.DJWF.org
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Engagement of Hollywood Producer Michael S. Emerson, to make this film. https://m.imdb.com/name/nm0256512/
- Emerson has been in talks with the History Channel, Fox Nation, and A&E.
- History Channel agreed to air the documentary once completed.
- Engagement of academy award-winner, Richard Dreyfuss to narrate the film
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Extended trailer: https://www.djwf.org/dreyfuss
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Brief trailer: https://www.djwf.org/the-trailer
- The fervent patriotic zeal that is currently upon us… THE TIMING IS NOW.
- A commitment from NSSAR of $5,000 to support this project
What we can have:
- SAR to have “on-screen” presence…being interviewed to highlight values and mission
- SAR links and logos on all publicity and social media
- SAR ability to utilize the documentary as part of educational platform
- SAR will have enduring national exposure for decades to come as a patriotic educational leader
What we need:
- Total SAR sponsorship of at least $25,000
- Support from Committees, States, Chapters and Individuals
- Time is of the essence…to complete by July 4, 2026…the window is NOW.
- EVERY Compatriot can support this important effort…no matter the amount… together we can all bring this tremendous opportunity to reality
Donate today to support this amazing opportunity to further expand the SAR as an education leader for decades to come!
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Join Us in Philadelphia for the Navy and Marines 250th Anniversary National Commemoration!
Mark your calendars for October 11–13, 2025, as the Sons of the American Revolution host a special national event in Philadelphia, PA honoring the 250th Anniversary of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps.
The weekend includes a commemorative ceremony at Independence Square, patriot grave markings for legendary figures like Commodore John Barry and Col. Samuel Nicholas, a tour of Independence Hall, and a festive dinner at Glory Beer Bar & Kitchen.
On Sunday, we’ll commemorate the Battle of Germantown, hear from historian Michael Harris, and honor more patriots at the Germantown Upper Burying Ground. The celebration concludes Monday with the Navy-Marines Homecoming 250 Parade and a visit to the Museum of the American Revolution!
You can read the flyer HERE
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Council of State Presidents Newsletter
Read the latest newsletter from the COSP HERE
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Revolutionary War Rarities Podcast
American Made Weapons of the American Revolution
This episode of Revolutionary War Rarities focuses on some of the American made weapons of the American Revolution. Many personal hunting guns like fowlers were put into service simply because they were available. Compare this episode to a previous release titled "Foreign Aid" that debuted in the Fall of 2024. Click the link to watch!
We hope you enjoy this episode of Revolutionary War Rarities! Be sure to "Like" and "Subscribe" and check out more content at FastFunHistory.com!
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SAR University
Did you ever want to know about what you are supposed to do as an officer? Or even some general responsibilities as a Compatriot? SAR has put together an informative and extensive series to help do just that. At the completion there is a certificate recognizing the training you have received.
Challenge yourself and click the link to learn more.
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150th Fall Board of Managers Meeting
October 24-25th, 2025 Costa Mesa
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More information can be found on the CASSAR website or by clinking HERE
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🇺🇸 The Birth of a Nation: A Patriotic Timeline of Independence Day 🇺🇸
Celebrating the Spirit of Liberty, 1776–2025
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1765–1775: Seeds of Revolution
The American colonies, loyal yet weary, endured years of increasing British taxation and control without representation. From the Stamp Act to the Boston Tea Party, a growing spirit of resistance ignited across the thirteen colonies. The cry for liberty began to echo through colonial streets, taverns, and statehouses: "No taxation without representation!"
April 19, 1775: The Shot Heard ‘Round the World
At Lexington and Concord, American militiamen stood against British troops. The Revolutionary War had begun. Ordinary citizens became patriots, farmers became fighters, and the cause of freedom gained its first martyrs.
July 2–4, 1776: A Declaration for the Ages
On July 2nd, the Continental Congress voted for independence. Two days later, on July 4, 1776, the final wording of the Declaration of Independence—drafted by Thomas Jefferson and inspired by Enlightenment ideals—was adopted. With the stroke of a pen, thirteen colonies boldly proclaimed themselves "free and independent states."
1776–1783: The Fight for Freedom
Over the next seven years, the fledgling United States waged war against the greatest military power on earth. Through frostbitten winters at Valley Forge, through victories at Saratoga and Yorktown, the resilience of the American spirit endured. General George Washington led with resolve, and a new republic took root.
July 4, 1777: The First Celebration
One year later, Philadelphia marked the first Independence Day with bells, bonfires, and fireworks. Ships fired salutes, and the people celebrated liberty in full spirit. The tradition began as a celebration, not just of independence, but of the enduring values of freedom, self-governance, and national unity.
1861–1865: Preserving the Union
Through the crucible of the Civil War, Americans rededicated themselves to the founding ideals of 1776. President Abraham Lincoln, at Gettysburg, called for a "new birth of freedom", ensuring that the sacrifices of our Founding Fathers would not be in vain.
20th–21st Century: Defending Liberty at Home and Abroad
From the beaches of Normandy to the deserts of the Middle East, American service members have continued the fight for freedom, bearing the torch passed down from 1776. Each generation, in its own way, answers the call to protect liberty.
July 4, 2025: Honoring 249 Years of Freedom
We celebrate not just a date, but a legacy. Independence Day is a reminder that freedom is never free, and that the American experiment endures because of the courage, sacrifice, and unity of its people. As fireworks light the night sky and flags wave proudly, we reflect on our past, cherish our present, and commit to building a more perfect Union for the future.
🇺🇸 Let Freedom Ring—Yesterday, Today, and Forever. 🇺🇸
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New CA SAR
America 250th Anniversary Program
California Patriot of the Month
Beginning this month the California Compatriot will publish the Patriot of the Month. This Patriot can be submitted by any California Compatriot to the editor who has successfully had his Patriot's story put on the PRS system. The story must have citations as to where the story came from. Selections of what story to publish will be the sole jurisdiction of the editor and all submissions will be forwarded over to the historian.
If we are able to get 250 submissions of stories, we might take a look at the possibility of having them published as an America 250 project for California. The following is our first Patriot of the Month submitted by President Ferris:
Henry Sanders
Henry Sanders was born on the 26th of October 1751, in Perquimans County, North Carolina to parents Joseph and Mary. Henry's family had been Quakers until the time of the Revolutionary War. As Quakers did not believe in fighting, they became Baptists so strong was their belief in the colonies right to independence.
He joined the fight for Independence in 1775 or 1776, volunteering for the Militia in Fairfield County, South Carolina. Henry served at various times as a private under Captains Lewis, Samuel Boykin, and Thomas Starks. He also served under Colonel Taylor with the South Carolina troops. His service included about two years as a commissary to said South Carolina troops.
He was captured at the Battle of Rocky Mount (The Battle of Rocky Mount took place on August 1, 1780. Loyalists commanded by Lieutenant Colonel George Turnbull occupying an outpost in northern South Carolina withstood an attack by 600 American Patriots led by Colonel Thomas Sumter,) while out hunting for supplies. The Tories gave him a choice between allegiance to the King and being shot. Choosing the latter, Henry was confined in prison. Fortunately, he and a comrade escaped a few days later, while the sentinel slept at night.
He saw General Lincoln at Charlestown. At the Battle of Yorktown, he served under Captains Lewis, Samuel Boykin, Thomas Starke, and Col. Taylor. His service ended at the Battle of Yorktown in 1781.
On October 18, 1779, while still serving in the Revolution, Henry married Dica Blake, daughter of John Blake and Mourning Dove.
After the War, he traveled to Anson Co, North Carolina where he resided about three years. He then moved to Cheshire, NC for one year and then to Grange Co, East Tennessee. From there, he moved to Knox Co. Kentucky and then to Indiana as a result of a land grant for service to his country.
While in Indiana he lived in Orange, Bartholomew, and Monroe Counties. He was in Monroe County at the time of his application for pension in 1832. He drew a pension for two years.
Henry was a Baptist minister for about 40 years. He joined the Vernal Baptist Church in 18 Jan 1826.
Henry Sanders died on February 13, 1834. Henry and Dica had 9 children. Nearly two generations of their children and descendants are buried in Vernal-Mayfield Cemetery, Monroe County, Indiana. (The Vernal Baptist Church is six miles west of Bloomington, IN.)
Display Patriot - P-284258 - Henry SANDERS
Counties of Morgan, Monroe, and Brown, Indiana. Historical and biographical : Blanchard, Charles, fl. 1882-1900, ed. cn : Free Download, Borrow, and Streaming : Internet Archive
Page 1 - US, Revolutionary War Pensions, 1800-1900 - Fold3
Ancestry.com - Genealogy of the Wright family : descendants of Richard Wright, Sr., whose will was probated in Rowan County, North Carolina
Ancestry.com - U.S., Quaker Meeting Records, 1681-1935
https://www.ancestry.com/imageviewer/collections/2189/images/40642_301791-00124?pId=3551351
Rev Henry B. Sanders Sr. (1751-1834) - Find a Grave Memorial
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Honoring 250 Years of Army Service: Harbor Chapter’s America 250 Dinner Brings History to Life
The Harbor Chapter hosted a well-attended America 250 Dinner Meeting at the Western Museum of Flight in Torrance to celebrate the 250th Birthday of the United States Army. Guests gathered among historic aircraft for an evening of fellowship, patriotism, and commemoration.
Highlights included a thoughtful presentation by the Commemorative Air Force on preserving and flying military aviation history, reinforcing the legacy of American service. California SAR President John Ferris also joined the event to present Presidential Certificates of Appreciation to Harbor President James Bunker, Vice President South Brandon Villardi, and State Treasurer Kevin Bidenkap in recognition of their dedicated service. Several DAR Regents were also in attendance, underscoring the Harbor Chapter’s commitment to collaboration with DAR partners in advancing shared goals for America 250.
A true centerpiece of the evening was the dramatic appearance of General George Washington, brought to life by historical actor Peter Small. Through a powerful first-person portrayal, Washington recounted the trials and victories of the Revolutionary War, sharing intimate reflections on the hardships faced by the Continental Army and his own leadership challenges.
He offered a vivid, engaging exploration of the famous Crossing of the Delaware, describing the perilous winter night crossing, the cold and fatigue of his soldiers, and the determination that turned the tide of the war. His authentic performance transported the audience back to 1776, inspiring everyone with the spirit and sacrifice that forged our nation.
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Kern SAR participated with the young Marines in retiring over 3000 flags on Flag Day. Later we were part of the Army’s 250th Anniversary. Arnie’s saber was used to cut the birthday cake. Mr. Hay fired a cannon as part of the Flag retirement ceremony. He does the same at our 4th of July parade.
L-R Brian Claxton, Arnie Burr, Rod Goodmon, Mike Bradley, Tabitha Wheeler, Bruce Wearda, Mike Woodward, Kerry Adams, JB Hay.
| | Compatriot Daniel McKelvie addresses the assemblage at the City of Cerrito "Let Freedom Ring Celebration" The crowd was several thousand attendees. | | |
Redwood Empire Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution joined the Napa Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution for the parade on their float.
Compatriots Bill and Daniel Van Valkenburg with Napa Chapter DAR Member
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Compatriots Steve Belden, Phil Noble, Doug Blake and Don Littlefield represented the Sacramento chapter in the annual Historic Folsom Parade
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Sacramento Chapter members with the Carmichael Elks Lodge exalted Ruler, describing the Commander-in-Chiefs Guard Flag, presenting the program on the origins of our flag from the Red British Ensign through the Sons of Liberty Flag, the Grand Union Flag, Gen. Washington's personal standard, the Betsey Ross Flag, and finally the 1794 15 Stars and Stripes Flag aka the Star Spangled Banner.
At the picnic that afternoon, presenting Starla Studer and Peggy Hopkins with the Bronze 250 Medals, Tom Carpenter playing patriotic songs with his band, and presenting Jim Warrick with the Bronze 250 Medal after he had finished cooking the hot dogs and hamburgers.
| | San Diego May Newsletter can be read HERE | |
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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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Thomas Jefferson Chapter – 100th Anniversary
This year marks the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Thomas Jefferson Chapter. The chapter was founded in 1925 as the 7th chapter of the California Society – after Los Angeles (1908), San Diego (1910), San Jose (1922), Stockton (1922), Sacramento (1922), and Auburn/Gold Country (1924).
The Thomas Jefferson Chapter is hosting a 100th Anniversary Dinner on Saturday, October 11, 2025, from 5:30PM to 9:00PM, at the Boundary Oak Golf Course, 3800 Valley Vista Road, Walnut Creek, California. Reservations are $100 per person (with a $10 discount for registering by July 4, 2025). You can register at www.tjsar.org. For more information, contact Secretary Stephen Renouf at Usina@aol.com
To read the amazing story, click: HERE
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Yosemite Chapter Presents the Colors at Fresno Grizzlies Game
A Grand Salute to America in Front of 10,000 Fans
On a warm and spirited evening under the bright lights of Chukchansi Park, the Yosemite Chapter Color Guard proudly presented the Colors during the 7th inning stretch at the Fresno Grizzlies baseball game, delivering a moving tribute to our nation in front of a crowd of over 10,000 fans and countless more watching from home on live television.
As the Color Guard marched onto the field, the crowd rose in reverent silence, and the stirring notes of “America the Beautiful” filled the stadium. Flags waved in the stands, and hands clutched hearts as the timeless song honored the land we love.
We were honored by the presence and participation of CASSAR President John Ferris, who joined the Yosemite Chapter Color Guard in full historic attire. His leadership and support made the event even more meaningful, showcasing the strength and unity of the California Society, Sons of the American Revolution.
The spotlight on the 7th inning stretch became more than a baseball tradition, it became a platform to celebrate American heritage, honor those who came before us, and inspire future generations with the values of liberty and service.
President Ferris Presented Chapter President and CASSAR EVP Randy Dhindsa with Presidential certificates of appreciation.
Color Guard L-R: Randy Dhindsa, Harlie Smith, John Ferris, Jim Riley, Jackson Dhindsa and Scott Nichols.
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On Friday, June 20th, the CASSAR Color Guard proudly presented the colors at the joint NSCAR Western and Rocky Mountain Region Meeting.
The event was well attended by National and State officers, including NSCAR National President Reese Holmes and Senior National President Jeffery Voris. During the banquet, CASSAR President John Ferris delivered welcoming remarks, highlighting the enduring partnership between SAR and CAR as we prepare to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary.
Earlier that afternoon, CASSAR Members Brandon Villardi, Bruce Wearda, and Jim Hernandez had the privilege of escorting NSCAR members to Independence Hall at Knott’s Berry Farm for a special America 250 presentation.
Group Photo (left to right): Kevin Bidenkap, Bruce Wearda, Sophia K. (VP, Western Region), Jim Hernandez, Kent Gregory, Brian Stephens (SAR VPG, Western District), Elizabeth Y. (VP, Rocky Mountain Region), Kevin Forrest, Brandon Villardi, John Ferris (CASSAR President), and Lucas Villardi.
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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
For details on upcoming events 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
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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Gen George Washington - Charles Robert Kiel - #138370
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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 — July 31, 2025 Deadline
Please send news of events and high-resolution digital photos to:
Randy Dhindsa genealogy@dhindsafamily.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: Randy Dhindsa
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