October 2025

President's Message

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.

Welcome New Compatriots!

America 250th

Anniversary Recognition Program

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.

Liberty Tree Project

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.

Internal Revenue Service Requirements

The IRS requires that all subordinate organizations (in the case of the National SAR, state societies and chapters and a few other related entities) obtain a 9-digit tax identification number. That number must be linked to the National SAR’s group exemption number (0690) meaning that the subordinate organization carries the rights and obligations of an organization exempt from federal income tax under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. All state societies and chapters should have one of these numbers, and if not, they should contact the Director of Finance at SAR headquarters to find out how to obtain such a number.

The National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution files IRS form 990 (Return of Organization Exempt from Income Tax) every year. The information in this report applies only to the operations of the National Society. Financial and other data pertaining to the state societies and chapters is not included in this return. Each subordinate must file its own form 990.



Generally, a subordinate who has averaged less than $50,000 in gross receipts over the current and previous two years can file form 990-N, an electronic post card. This is an Internet based filing and there is no option for filing a paper report.  The report can be filed by visiting the IRS website at www.irs.govand clicking on the “Charities & Non-Profits” link.

Here is the data that the IRS will require to file the 990-N:

• Organization’s name (should always be the National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution)
• Any other names your organization uses (should be the State Society or Chapter name)
• Organization’s mailing address
• Organization’s website address (if applicable)
• Organization’s tax identification number
• Name and address of a principal officer of the organization
• Organization’s annual tax period
• A statement that the organization’s annual gross receipts are still normally $50,000 or less
• If applicable, indicate if the organization is ceasing to exist

The IRS refers to “tax” periods for all organizations, although non-profits do not normally pay federal income tax, unless they have unrelated business income. The 990 must be filed by the 15th day of the fifth month after the close of the tax period.

Each subordinate should maintain accurate financial records in order to file the 990. It is recommended that each subordinate have one person who keeps track of receipts and disbursements, either with a checkbook, a spreadsheet or any one of the numerous computer programs available to help small businesses keep their books. At the close of the tax period, that person should total all of the receipts of the subordinate and keep that information available for at least 7 years, in case of a possible audit.

According to the IRS, “to determine if an organization’s gross receipts are normally $50,000 or less, apply the following test. An organization’s gross receipts normally are considered to be $50,000 or less if the organization is:

1. Up to a year old and has received, or donors have pledged to give, $75,000 or less during its first tax year;
2. Between 1 and 3 years old and averaged $60,000 or less in gross receipts during each of its first 2 years; or
3. Three years old or more and averaged $50,000 or less in gross receipts for the immediately preceding 3 tax years (including the year in which the return would be filed).”

Most SAR members pay chapter, state and national dues. When calculating gross receipts, the subordinate should only count the dues kept by that subordinate. For example, national dues forwarded on to the National Society by the state society should not be included in gross receipts when applying the gross receipts test above. The amount of these dues should also not be included on the subordinate’s form 990 either.

The IRS includes a list of items that should be considered when calculating gross receipts in their publication “Instructions for Form 990 and 990-EZ”. This document can be found on the internet at www.irs.gov. Some of the items an SAR subordinate might have in gross receipts are:

• Contributions, gifts and grants
• Program service revenue
• Membership dues and assessments
• Interest on savings and temporary cash investments
• Dividends and interest from securities
• Gross amount from sales of securities and other assets
• Gross sales of inventory

The IRS states that organizations failing to meet their filing requirements for three consecutive years will have their filing status revoked. So, it is important that each active SAR subordinate meet its filing requirements each year.

Subordinates that do not meet the tests for filing form 990-N must file either form 990-EZ or form 990. It is recommended that a professional experienced in preparing such a return complete this filing.

Read More HERE

SAR to Host Free Preview of The American Revolution

LOUISVILLE, KY – The National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) will host a special Lunch & Learn Preview of The American Revolution on October 22nd and 29th at 12:00 p.m. in the SAR Genealogical Research Library.

The program will feature an exclusive preview of the upcoming documentary, followed by a presentation of authentic 18th-century objects by Zac Distel, SAR Curator and Director of Collections. Guests are encouraged to bring their lunch and enjoy this engaging opportunity to connect history with the present. Complimentary bottled water and light refreshments will be available.

“We are thrilled to bring this preview of The American Revolution to the community,” said Phil Bloyd, SAR Executive Director. “It’s a chance to not only see history come alive through film, but also to experience tangible connections to the American Revolution through artifacts in our collection.”

This program is FREE and open to the public, but registration is requested HERE

You can book your hotel for the event HERE

National Resources for Chapters

A dedicated hub designed to support the Sons of the American Revolution in honoring and promoting the legacy of the American Revolution. This site provides tools to strengthen the SAR brand while sharing the powerful story of our nation’s founding, from the Stamp Act to the Treaty of Paris.

The Resource Library features a wide range of projects, programs, and educational materials that highlight key moments, people, and principles of the Revolution. Members and educators alike can explore and download presentations, resources, and program guides to bring history to life in classrooms, community events, and SAR activities.

America250SAR.org serves as both a branding resource and an educational platform, ensuring that the story of America’s fight for independence is remembered, celebrated, and shared as we approach the 250th anniversary of our nation’s founding.

Visit the Website HERE

The National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution is developing SAR University, a comprehensive training platform designed to support members at every level of the organization. This initiative will provide easy access to a wide range of materials covering topics such as:

• Compatriot training – helping new members understand SAR’s mission, traditions, and opportunities for involvement.
• Officer development – guidance for chapter, state, and national leaders to strengthen their leadership skills.
• System and process training – tutorials on effectively using SAR tools, platforms, and resources.
• Community outreach – strategies for engaging with schools, civic groups, and local communities.
• Meeting and program support – resources to help chapters run effective, impactful gatherings.

The goal of SAR University is simple: to equip every compatriot with the knowledge and tools needed to succeed, both within SAR and in serving the communities where we live. This resource will ensure that members and chapters alike can thrive as we continue to honor our patriot ancestors and preserve their legacy.

visit the website HERE

SAR Education Center and Museum Update

SAR received the approval to proceed with the Phase 3B for the museum along with the approval of the design of the Education Center. 

Read all about it HERE

and

HERE

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.

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:

• Partnership with the DJWF on continued education and exposure (websites, logos, links) www.DJWF.org
• 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
• Extended trailer: https://www.djwf.org/dreyfuss
• 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! 

150th Fall Board of Managers Meeting

October 24-25th, 2025 Costa Mesa

Registration information can be found on the CASSAR website or by clinking HERE

California Ladies Auxiliary Corner RAFFLE ITEMS NEEDED

The California SAR Board of Managers meeting is less than one month away at the Orange County Hilton, Costa Mesa, October 24 - 25.

This is the Ladies Auxiliary reminder to bring an item for the raffle.  If you are on your way and you forgot to bring something at the last minute you can drop by the wines and spirits store and pick up your favorite.  Fast food, candy and store gift cards are very popular also and that only requires a turn of the steering wheel.

If you have planned ahead, but can’t attend the meeting, please bring it to your local chapter meeting prior to the conference for the Chapter representative to take it for you.  To help you with your preparation, you may choose wines and spirits, gourmet food items, historical books and fine candies in a basket if possible; crocheted blankets, seasonal quilts and gift cards work too. Our secretary, Kelly Villardi, will be more than happy to provide you with a tax donation letter should you require one.

We sincerely appreciate your support of the Ladies Auxiliary and look forward to seeing you at the California SAR BOM Conference.  I can’t thank you enough for the cooperation I have been afforded in working with SAR members, especially when I needed your help with moving or lifting heavy items and general thoughtfulness to solve an outstanding problem. Working together is the foundation of a successful meeting.  On behalf of LACASSAR, I thank you so much for donating.  



Liz Ferris, President

California Ladies Auxiliary (LACASSAR)

Have you considered serving as a California State Society SAR Officer?

The Nominating Committee is looking for candidates who are interested in serving as a California State Society SAR Officer. You can see a list of the current State officers  HERE

You can read a description of the officer’s duties in our By-Laws HERE

We prefer that State officers have previous service as a Chapter Officer. If you are interested in being considered for a State Society Officer position, please contact Jim Klingler, Chairman of the Nominating Committee at: Klingler@sbcglobal.net, or (949) 300-3253.

Contribution by Compatriot Mike Miller

The Flags of a New Nation: From the Continental Union to the Stars and Stripes

In the early days of the American Revolution, the colonies fought under many banners, symbols of unity, protest, and hope — but none yet represented the united cause of all thirteen colonies. From these early standards would emerge the Continental Union Flag, the first true emblem of an emerging nation and the forerunner of our beloved Stars and Stripes.

The Birth of a National Emblem

By late 1775, the Continental Congress was functioning as a wartime government, having authorized the creation of the Continental Army, Navy, and Marines. Yet, there was no common flag to represent the new American cause. The need for a distinctive symbol — one that would inspire unity and distinguish American forces from those of Britain — became undeniable.



Thus was born the Continental Union Flag, sometimes called the Grand Union Flag or Cambridge Flag. It combined the British Union flag of 1707 (symbolizing England and Scotland) in the canton with thirteen alternating red and white stripes representing the United Colonies. This design reflected both the colonies’ shared heritage and their united resistance to tyranny.

First Flown for Liberty

The Continental Union Flag first flew on December 3, 1775, at Philadelphia’s Delaware River waterfront during the commissioning of Commodore Esek Hopkins’ flagship, Alfred, the first warship of the Continental Navy. Among those present was Lieutenant John Paul Jones, who hoisted the new flag for the first time, marking a historic moment in America’s naval story.

A month later, on January 2, 1776, General George Washington raised the same flag at Prospect Hill near Cambridge, Massachusetts, as his troops besieged British forces in Boston. Today, the city of Somerville, Massachusetts, continues to commemorate this patriotic event every January.

Symbolism and Purpose

The Continental Union Flag represented a delicate balance; a union of loyalty and defiance. The inclusion of the British Union symbol was, at first, a statement of reconciliation, showing the colonies’ desire for rights within the British system. Yet, the thirteen stripes boldly proclaimed unity and resistance.

As the Revolution deepened, so too did America’s resolve. The colonies no longer sought reconciliation but independence, and a new flag would soon rise to reflect that conviction.

From the Continental Union to the Stars and Stripes

On June 14, 1777, the Second Continental Congress adopted the Flag Act of 1777, establishing a new design:

“Resolved, that the flag of the United States be thirteen stripes, alternate red and white; that the union be thirteen stars, white in a blue field, representing a new constellation.”

This act replaced the British Union symbol with thirteen stars — representing a free and united republic. Because Congress offered no instructions on how the stars should be arranged, countless variations appeared: stars in circles, rows, squares, or even with one at the center. Each hand-sewn flag reflected the creativity and devotion of the citizens who stitched them.



Although the legend of Betsy Ross is well known, historians agree that while she was a talented upholsterer and may have contributed to early flag-making, her role as the sole creator of the first flag was likely embellished in later generations. Her story, popularized in the late 19th century, nonetheless captures the enduring spirit of American patriotism and craftsmanship.

The Evolving Flag of a Growing Nation

As America grew, so too did its flag.

• The Flag Act of 1794 added two stars and two stripes to represent the admission of Vermont and Kentucky — the only official U.S. flag to feature fifteen stripes.
• The Flag Act of 1818, guided by Congressman Peter Wendover and Captain Samuel C. Reid, established the enduring pattern we know today: thirteen stripes for the original colonies and a star for each state in the Union.
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Each change marked the nation’s progress — from rebellion to republic, from thirteen colonies to fifty united states.

Legacy and Remembrance

The Continental Union Flag remains a proud emblem of America’s first steps toward sovereignty. It symbolizes the courage of those who dared to unite under a new identity, even before the dream of independence was fully realized.

For members of the Sons of the American Revolution, these flags are more than fabric and thread, they are banners of sacrifice, unity, and destiny. Each stitch and stripe tells the story of a people determined to secure liberty, not for themselves alone, but for generations yet unborn.

From the ramparts of Prospect Hill to the decks of the Alfred, these early flags carried the heartbeat of a nation that believed in freedom. Their legacy endures every time Old Glory unfurls in the wind; a living tribute to the patriots who first raised their banner of defiance and hope.

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 26^th 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

Please reach out to Randy Dhindsa if interested in participating!

Eagle Chapter

Eagle Chapter members participated in Constitution day, DAR Bells across America.

Compatriot Mark Kramer and Benny White representing SAR

Benny White presenting a flag certificate to Van Avery Prep School at their Flag Raising ceremony

General George S Patton Chapter

President John Ferris and Fist Lady and LACASSAR President Liz Ferris at the General George S Patton Chapter BBQ.

Harbor Chapter

Harbor Chapter Honors John Hollaway with Bronze Good Citizenship Medal

At its October 11th meeting, the Harbor Chapter, Sons of the American Revolution, presented the Bronze Good Citizenship Medal to Mr. John Hollaway in recognition of his outstanding service to the Carson community.

Mr. Hollaway is the founder of Carson411, an initiative that began as a local information network and has since grown into a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting residents. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he organized donation drives to provide essential supplies for seniors, arranged community walks and bike rides to promote wellness and connection, and coordinated the collection and distribution of resources to families in need. Today, Carson411 has grown to more than 18,000 members and continues to serve as a vital community message board and resource hub for the City of Carson, home to Caroldale Learning Community—which is just one of the schools supported through the SAR Poster Contest.

The Bronze Good Citizenship Medal is awarded to individuals whose leadership, volunteerism, and civic responsibility exemplify the highest ideals of American citizenship. Mr. Hollaway’s tireless dedication to the well-being of his community makes him a most deserving recipient of this honor.

Left to right:  V.P. South Brandon, Villardi, John Hollaway, Harbor President James Bunker

Harbor Chapter Participates in Constitution Day Bell Ringing



On Saturday, September 20, 2025, Harbor Chapter President James Bunker and Color Guardsman Ken Winiecki proudly participated in the Constitution Day Bell Ringing Ceremony arranged by the Pointe Vicente Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. The event, held at Angels Gate Park in San Pedro, commemorated the 238th anniversary of the signing of the U.S. Constitution with the ringing of the historic 17-ton Korean Bell of Friendship—a powerful symbol of American independence, Korean War remembrance, and enduring friendship between the United States and South Korea.

South Coast Chapter

Guest speaker for September dinner meeting was Leslie Pfeifer who spoke about the history of the Flying Tigers and her experiences as a flight attendant with the Flying Tigers in her seventy-five missions transporting troops and supplies to South Vietnam.



South Coast Chapter Vice President, Programs, Norm Broadhurst, presented Leslie Pfeifer with a certificate of appreciation, an honorarium, and a South Coast Challenge Coin.

Leon Smith, South Coast Registrar/Genealogist, inducted eight new members into the South Coast Chapter.

The eight new members are:

Steven Boggess whose patriot ancestor was Samuel Boggess - Maryland Militia.

Kevin Donohue whose patriot ancestor was Walling Van Winkle – New Jersey Militia.

Christopher Hillstead whose patriot ancestor was Alexander McCullar - Georga Militia.

Collum McLaughlin whose patriot ancestor was Jacob Dennard – South Carolina Militia.

Kevin Tripp whose patriot ancestor was Simeon Lakin – New Hampshire Militia.

Brian Walker whose patriot ancestor was Daniel Eyster – Pennsylvania Militia.

Erick Ward whose patriot ancestor was Samuel Reed – North Carolina Militia.

Dereck Westervelt whose patriot ancestor was Benajamin Westervelt – New Jersey Militia.

South Coast Registrar Leon Smith, presented Supplemental Certificates to two chapter members. The certificates issued were as follows: 



Nolan Forrest - Two certificates for his Patriot Ancestors Timothy Kinnard – Massachusetts Continental Infantry and Isaac Pierce Massachusetts Continental Infantry. 

Kelly Stone – Two certificates for his Patriot Ancestors Robertt Baldridge – North Carolina Juror and John Rorebaugh – Supported Virginia Militia.

San Diego Chapter

San Diego July Newsletter can be read HERE

San Diego Chapter Website.

Thomas Jefferson Chapter

Thomas Jefferson Chapter Celebrates 100 Years of Patriot Legacy (1925–2025)

The Thomas Jefferson Chapter proudly marked its 100-year anniversary at the beautiful Boundary Oak Golf Course, honoring a century of service, fellowship, and dedication to preserving the legacy of the American Revolution.

The event brought together compatriots, friends, and families for an evening filled with patriotism, camaraderie, and reflection. Laughter and stories echoed through the room as members celebrated the chapter’s enduring mission, to remember the courage of our patriot ancestors and to inspire future generations to carry that torch of liberty forward.

CASSAR and LACASSAR officers joined the celebration, lending their support and gratitude to a chapter that has exemplified leadership and devotion for a full century. From the first invocation to the final toast, the evening was a heartfelt tribute to the spirit of the Sons of the American Revolution, a reminder that freedom’s legacy lives strongest when shared among those who vow to protect it.

Here’s to the next 100 years of honoring our heritage, serving our communities, and keeping the flame of liberty alive.

Yosemite Chapter

Yosemite Chapter Honors Our Heroes with Honor Flight Welcome Homes

In September and October, the Yosemite Chapter proudly participated in two Honor Flight welcome home receptions, joining hundreds of grateful Americans in celebrating our nation’s veterans as they returned from their journey to Washington, D.C.

These moving ceremonies remind us that the freedoms we cherish were secured through the courage and sacrifice of those who served. Standing shoulder to shoulder in full Continental uniform, our compatriots brought the spirit of 1776 to life, honoring not only the veterans of today but also the patriots who first secured our liberty nearly 250 years ago.

The most recent flight was especially meaningful as we welcomed home our own compatriot and veteran, Sheldon Ball. To greet him upon his return, surrounded by cheers, flags, and heartfelt gratitude, was a moment of deep pride and brotherhood for all present.

Through our continued participation in Honor Flight events, the Yosemite Chapter reaffirms the timeless bond between America’s patriots past and present; a living testament to the SAR’s enduring mission to honor, remember, and serve.

On Wednesday September 17th, a combined Color Guard from the South Coast, Harbor and Orange County Chapters presented colors for the Annual Constitution Day event at the Mission in San Juan Capistrano. 

Hosted by the DAR, the event occurs annually and the 1pm Bell Ringing coincides with National tributes to the signing of the Constitution. The event is attended by local schools as well as city representatives from the surrounding towns. 



Representing the SAR Color Guard were:

Brandon Villardi (Harbor Chapter); James Klingler (OC Chapter); Bob Maples (South Coast Chapter); Dyke Dooley (OC); Kim Hernandez (SC) and Kevin Forrest (SC)

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

Upcoming Color Guard Events

Open to all Guardsmen

For details on upcoming events click Color Guard Schedule

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:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.

Color Guard Magazine

The January issue of the Color Guard Magazine may be found at SAR Color Guard Magazine.

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

SAR Education Center and Museum Video

SAR YouTube Channel

Revolutionary War Rarities | Facebook

Revolutionary War Rarities | YouTube

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.

National Society SAR

SAR Foundation

SAR Western District

SAR California



SAR Dues and Transaction Fees

Gen George Washington - Charles Robert Kiel - #138370

Yosemite Chapter - John Chris Julian - # 217774

Yosemite Chapter - George "Al" Ludwig - # 170741

Yosemite Chapter - Ed Bates - # 128471



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 !!!

CALL FOR ARTICLES — October 31st, 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.

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