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Compatriots,
July was a fast month. I had the honor of presenting the flag in Fresno with the Yosemite Chapter Color Guard at Grizzly Stadium on July Fourth in front of thousands in the stadium and who knows how many on live TV. The next day I joined my Compatriot friends from the Redwood Empire Chapter in Stockton reading a proclamation in front of a very large audience honoring the 100th birthday of a WWII veteran who among many other stories was a survivor of Iwo Jima. Finally, I got to enjoy a wonderful lunch meeting with my Los Angeles Compatriot brothers and friends at the Sons of Liberty Chapter meeting learning about the involvement of women in the Revolutionary War.
The only downside of the month was that I could not enjoy Congress due to some health issues. In fact, I can’t really say downside I will only say my July SAR experience was slightly different, but very rewarding:
I did not get to go to Congress as the doctor wanted me to stay home dealing with some skin cancer procedures. A few days ago, I had my second infusion for skin cancer. While sitting in the chair, my wife and I got into a conversation with a young couple next to us. She (24 years old) was in for Hodkin lymphoma disease (it was in remission, but she still needed infusions). They were both from the US Coast Guard. We had a delightful talk and somewhere in the talk I mentioned SAR and genealogy and they both got excited about the organization and the possibility they could belong.
As my wife and I were leaving I gave them a card to get in touch with me if they wanted to become members of the SAR or DAR. Then I gave them both a Decade of the American Revolution Challenge coin and explained to them what the Decade meant. Finally, I mentioned I had some coins from the State President and handed that to them as well. Being from the military they both collect coins and were moved at the generosity they received from relative strangers.
The coins are such simple things, but they bring smiles and tears to those who receive them. My wife and I made their day, which otherwise would have been boring and tolerated at best. And it was done by the CA SAR. I am inviting all of you, if you have not entered into the joy of giving challenge coins, please think about it. As the above story relates you never know who you will give them to, but the opportunities are everywhere. Keeping the SAR alive is all of our responsibility. Giving out challenge coins is a wonderful way to provide on the spot outreach to the public at large.
As I look back on the month, I realize how full my life is because of my participation in the SAR. Even when we can’t do what we had hoped to do, SAR gives us plenty of opportunities to participate. Giving out challenge coins is one of those ways.
Shifting gears, you all know I spend a lot of time with the current Ladies Auxiliary President (she is my wife 😊). We agree the meetings we attend are the most fun when the spouses attend supporting their husbands. Yes, I know it is not for everyone, but please make sure they would feel welcome if they came to the meetings. Be sure to invite them, and the rest of your family as well. I think the time has come for the CA SAR to be less male centric and more family oriented.
This is how our Patriot Ancestors were…most of the time. I am still reminded about Abigal Adams letter to John; “Remember the ladies.” The more we can do to embrace our wives, the DAR and the C.A.R. the more our continued success is guaranteed. And just as important, the more fun and friends we will have working towards a common goal of celebrating and remembering the founding goals of this great nation.
So, as we get ready for the fall, I ask all of you to think about doing something just a little different so together we can make a big difference:
1. Flag Certificates. At least 3 flag certificates and three presenters from each chapter.
2. Invite the local DAR to your chapter and have them present what they are doing, especially towards America 250
3. Invite your local C.A.R. Ask one of the younger compatriots to lead the pledge of allegiance or say the opening prayer…or both.
4. Look at the medal list in the SAR Handbook and see that you are giving our medals to those who deserve them. While people don’t seek recognition, they get fired up when they receive it.
I am not asking you but rather challenging you to do these things. The point is we need to do something different to be something different. I see a much greater CA SAR with more members, more participation, and more recognition from outside of our organization of who the SAR is. My pride in this organization continues to grow, not because of what is in the bylaws and the mission statement, but because I am getting to know each of you a little better and understand more the potential we have. It is only by our participation that will unleash that potential.
Such participation was recognized at Congress when Compatriot and friend Dan McKelvie not only received the Minute Man award, the highest honor SAR can give to a Compatriot, but he also received the Distinguished Service Award and the Gold Meritorious Service medal. Receiving any one of these would be high praise, indeed. To receive all three, well let's just say Dan knows what participation all is about.
Finally, as always, remember you are a Son of the American Revolution. Your heritage is special, and the calling of your membership is unique. Together let's make a difference.
God Bless America and God Bless the SAR,
John R Ferris
President
California 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: 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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Michael J Elston, Esq. Elected as President General of SAR
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At the 135th Annual Congress, Michael J. Elston was inducted as the 121st President General of the Sons of the American Revolution.
In a heartfelt and inspiring address, he honored our proud heritage while casting a bold vision for the future.
His speech emphasized:
- Commitment to the SAR’s mission
- Purposeful leadership rooted in unity and integrity
- Stronger youth outreach, especially through the C.A.R.
- Growth through inclusivity, fun, and recognition
- Innovation while honoring tradition
President General Elston called on all Compatriots to be active stewards of our mission: preserving the past, leading in the present, and inspiring the future.
Watch his address HERE
You can view all General Officers who were elected HERE
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California News from Congress
Although I was not able to make Congress, like many of you there are things we should know that happen there:
Awards
- Council of Youth Programs Poster Contest
- Sgt Moses Adams Memorial Middle School Brochure Contest
- John C. Haughton Award
- The George S. & Stella M. Knight Award
- The Marian L. Brown Eagle Scout Award
- The Len Young Smith Award
- Officers Streamer Award
Bylaws and Proposals
- A proposal to make it more difficult to raise national fees failed.
- Three related proposals—two to create an Executive Vice President General position and another to require the Treasurer General to be a financial professional—also failed.
- A proposal allowing at-large national members (those not affiliated with a state society) was referred to the Membership Committee, following debate on limiting eligibility to military members and possibly their families.
- An amendment to remove the requirement that at least half of the George Washington Endowment Fund be invested in government securities passed, but must now be ratified by three-fourths of the state societies. I recommend ratifying it, similar to the rationale we used in changing the Paul Jones Scholarship Fund investment.
- A proposal to create Provisional Membership for applicants did not pass.
- A few housekeeping amendments to the Bylaws were approved.
Other National Updates
- The Trustees approved $1 million in funding for Phase 3B of the SAR Education Center and Museum.
- The application backlog currently stands at 12 weeks for new members and 63 weeks for supplemental applications.
- State societies will be recognized if their immediate past, current, and incoming presidents have all completed the Youth Protection Training. (Hint to Bob, Jeff, and Donn.)
- National membership stands at 35,613, an increase of 264 over the same time last year, though still below the 2023 total.
Upcoming Congress Dates
- 2026: July 10–16, Sheraton Greensboro at Four Seasons, Greensboro, NC
- 2027: July 7–15, Marriott New Orleans, LA
- 2028: July 7–12, Hilton Downtown, Columbus, OH
- 2029: Texas (likely San Antonio)
California Society News
- The Thomas Jefferson Chapter (San Francisco East Bay Area) will celebrate its 100th anniversary on October 11 in Walnut Creek.
- The California Society Board of Managers will meet October 24–25 in Costa Mesa.
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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
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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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Registration information can be found on the CASSAR website or by clinking HERE
| | California Society Delegation to Congress | | |
The California Society Sons of the American Revolution (CASSAR) was honored to have a strong and dedicated presence at the 135th National Congress, held this year in Connecticut.
This prestigious gathering brought together compatriots from across the nation to celebrate our shared heritage, advance the mission of the SAR, and honor the sacrifices of our Patriot ancestors.
Representing CASSAR were:
- Phil and Paula Mitchell
- Dan and Karen McKelvie
- Mike and Ronnie Mann
- Kent Gregory
- Brandon Villardi
- Derek Brown
- John Dodd
- Chris Cerillo
- Randy and Tighe Dhindsa
- Matthew Bowdish
- Bruce Wearda
Their participation reflected the California Society’s commitment to leadership, fellowship, and the continued preservation of our nation’s history. From engaging in important business sessions to attending inspiring patriotic ceremonies, our delegation stood proudly as ambassadors of the Golden State.
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Color Guard Commander Brandon Villardi, joined by compatriots Bruce Wearda, Tighe Dhindsa, and Randy Dhindsa, participating in
the National Color Guard activities.
Our California compatriots stood shoulder-to-shoulder with Color Guard members from across the country, presenting the colors with precision, reverence, and patriotic spirit.
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Compatriot Dan McKelvie Honored with the SAR
Minute Man Award
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The California Society Sons of the American Revolution is proud to announce that Compatriot Dan McKelvie has been awarded the SAR Minute Man Award, the highest honor bestowed by the National Society.
Established in 1951, this prestigious award recognizes those compatriots who have rendered distinguished and exceptional service to the National Society, embodying the very best of the SAR’s values and mission.
Compatriot McKelvie’s dedication, leadership, and tireless commitment to the ideals of the SAR have left a lasting impact on our Society. His contributions at the national level stand as an inspiring example of service above self, honoring both our Patriot ancestors and the principles for which they fought.
In celebration of this achievement, Dan was joined by fellow CASSAR Minute Men: John Dodd, Kent Gregory, Derek Brown, and Joe Dooley. Their presence underscored the brotherhood and mutual respect shared among those who have been recognized for their extraordinary service.
The Minute Man Award is not given lightly — it is a symbol of the highest trust and esteem within our Society. Let us all join in congratulating Dan McKelvie on this well-deserved honor, and in thanking him for his unwavering dedication to the SAR and the preservation of our nation’s history.
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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
| | Eagle Chapter members participated in the Annual Temecula 4th of July Parade, representing their chapter and SAR. | | |
On July 4th, members of the Harbor and South Coast Chapters SAR, joined by the El Redondo C.A.R. Society, proudly marched in the 119th annual Huntington Beach Independence Day Parade. Known as the largest 4th of July celebration west of the Mississippi, this iconic event drew more than 500,000 spectators and was broadcast live on ABC7.
The 2.5-mile parade route was lined with patriotic crowds as our members marched by.
Backrow: Luke Merrell, Kevin Forrest, Brandon Villardi, Lucas Villardi, Nolan Forrest, Kevin Forrest, Nolan Forrest, Jim Hernandez, Alexa, Brian Merrell, Front Row: Kelly Villardi, Mikayla.
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An AI generated image depicting Joseph Junkin, William Junkin, and James Lowther.
Title:
From Patriot Roots to Chapter Leadership: A Dual Lineage Story from Kern Chapter
By Christopher Scott, President, Kern Chapter SAR
As Sons of the American Revolution, each of us walks in the shadow of Patriots whose sacrifice forged a new nation. For me, that legacy runs through not one, but two Revolutionary lines, James Lowther and William Junkin, whose stories span both battlefield and frontier.
My primary SAR membership is through James Lowther (1758–1826), a soldier in the Pennsylvania militia who served during the American Revolution. His life and legacy, preserved in public records and family oral tradition, helped lay the foundation for my entry into SAR and eventually led me to serve as President of the Kern Chapter in Bakersfield, California.
My genealogical research uncovered a second compelling story, this time through William Junkin (1744–1825), also of Pennsylvania, and his father Joseph Junkin I (1715–1777), an immigrant from Ulster, Ireland who arrived in the colonies before the Revolution. Both men served in the war, and their names appear in the records of the National Society as recognized Patriots.
Their legacy lives on not just in archival documents, but in physical heritage. The Joseph Junkin House, a stone structure built in the mid-18th century in Cumberland County, Pennsylvania is now being preserved by the Cumberland Valley Preservation Society, which relocated and began restoring the home in 2023. This structure stands as a powerful symbol of the Junkin family's enduring legacy of faith, sacrifice, and resilience.
As SAR members, we are stewards of these stories. And as Chapter leaders, we have a unique opportunity and responsibility to bring them to life for future generations. Whether marching in Bakersfield's Independence Day parade or honoring veterans with Wreaths Across America, the Kern Chapter proudly carries forward the legacy of our Patriot ancestors.
I invite fellow Compatriots to explore their family trees deeply. There is no greater honor than discovering the courage in your bloodline, and no greater reward than sharing that story with your community.
Christopher Scott
Kern Chapter SAR President
760-417-0844
| | Compatriot Bruce Wearda delivering a sermon 7/6/25. included in the sermon was a incorporate a 250 minute regarding SAR and the American Revolution. | | Bruce Wearda with 3rd District Kern County Supervisor Jeff Flores delivering a check for the Liberty Tree fund. | | Westchester Parade July 4th. Mike Bradley, Sandra Gonzales on drums, Sophia Kaufman, Saffron Vierya , Kristen Kaufman (cowboy hat), Arnie Burr driving | | |
Compatriot Michael Mann had the pleasure of attending an Eagle Court of Honor on August 2, where he presented an SAR Eagle Scout Certificate. The Scout, Danial Davalos is also the Riverside Chapter’s newest Junior member.
First Photo are Riverside members L to R: Antonio Reys, Mike Heckenlaible, Danial Davalos, Mike Mann and David Leonard, Second photo President Mike Mann and Danial Davalos.
| | San Diego July 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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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 — August 30th, 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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