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Compatriots,
Another Summer has gone by. I hope you have had plenty of family, fun and sun to make your summer an enjoyable one. It is very hard to beat our California weather…for most of us. September still has time to enjoy barbeques and outdoor events with fellow compatriots. Let’s do our best to extend our compatriot comradery beyond our chapter meetings. This is how we will make a much more enjoyable and stronger CA SAR.
While I am a strong believer in having fun and enjoying what I do, I never forget we have basic responsibilities that must be observed. That is a part of our identity. We are not just a group of men; nor are we just a group of men who have patriot ancestors. We are a group of men with patriot ancestors that have certain beliefs, practices and responsibilities that distinguish ourselves from other groups. We are a professional organization that has business responsibilities to our parent organization and to the State of California. This is what makes us unique. I sent out a list of tax record compliances to the chapter presidents that did not seem to be well populated. Thank you to those who responded and did all the filings.
Our Board of Managers Meeting is only 2 months away. Bring any questions about Tax filings to the meeting. I am looking forward to 100% compliance next spring. Of course we will still take care of regular business, but we are also working on some training classes on Saturday afternoon. I hope to have classes on reconciliation and color guard as well as the showing of some videos from SAR University. The schedule should be out by the middle of September.
Also, prior to your coming please make sure you have taken the Youth Protection Certification which is now online. Take a printout of your certificate and bring it with you and turn it in at registration. As leaders of our organization, we must be the examples for others in our chapters to follow. Youth Protection is requested of all officers, youth program leaders and color guard members. You may not think you need it, but I ask as a team member we all comply. The more of us that are on the same page the stronger our organization will be.
You might notice that I often refer to us as CA SAR. This is a part of the name branding that national is asking us to follow. While many of us are used to saying CASSAR and California Society, the belief is that it dilutes the overall brand of the SAR. This is something the DAR went though many years ago. And we all know how successful their name recognition is when someone says DAR. I ask that you join with me and start using the new way when you can. True, I slip up every now and then, but I/we should never lose our focus on where we are going.
I mentioned the DAR. Please make sure to invite them to your color guard parade events and chapter meetings. These relationships are invaluable as well as fun. Remember they have the same goals as we do. It is amazing what these women do and having them join us makes our celebration all the more enjoyable.
And let’s not forget the C.A.R. We should be thinking SAR, DAR and C.A.R. as a single thought, a single family of likeminded individuals. The more we can interact, the stronger our penetration in society will be. And the more people will know who the SAR is without having to explain.
So, shifting gears, in the recent past issues of the Compatriot there have been articles of the Sons of the Revolutionary Sires. This group, officially organized on July 4, 1876, in San Fransico will be having its 150-anniversary next year. Now is the time to know what you can about the group that predated the SAR. I was relatively unfamiliar with this story until a few years ago. Knowing about it makes me all the prouder to be a California SAR member. California's patriotism should never be questioned. That said, we have much to do to bring more Californians into the fold.
By the time you get this newsletter we will be in our reconciliation period. This should be easy and straight forward. But for it to be so, we must understand what is needed and what it takes to get our membership to turn in their checks. Start now with notices and remind those who don’t send them in with emails every two to three weeks. As deadlines approach, please reach out to stragglers by phone. Let’s do our utmost to not lose any members this year.
For those who want to grow their chapter membership, look at who has dropped off the rolls in the past few years and reach out to them. I am sure during this time of the Decade of the American Revolution there are those that have dropped that would like to come back in.
My apologies for the chaotic message this month; jumping from subject to subject. There are many things we need to be aware of and as your President I will do my best to bring them to your attention. These are the things that will make a stronger organization, and hopefully, your participation more enjoyable.
Finally, remember that you are a Son of the American Revolution. The material in your DNA is proud and strong. Strong enough to have stood up against the odds and won. You have in you what it takes to make a difference, and a difference is what CA SAR needs to thrive. I appreciate your participation in making that difference. Thank you.
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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National Resources for Chapters
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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
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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
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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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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
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California Ladies Auxiliary Corner RAFFLE ITEMS NEEDED
We are in search of items for the raffle tables at the upcoming BOM meeting on October 24 – 25. It is less than 2months away.
- Many of you have already helped and will do so again.
- For some of you, your spouse takes care of it, so please remind them.
- Some of you may come alone, we would love for you to bring an item you would enjoy winning.
- Some of you may not be able to travel but know your Chapter representative who will be attending, so please pass on your raffle donation for them to bring.
- There were some very lucky winners who brought beautiful items home, and that is because you gave some thought to bringing special new items others would enjoy.
- That’s how it works, the more donations, the more happy smiling winners. (Empty baskets you may havewon in the past can also be donated again. We are into recycling).
- Popular are wines and spirits, gourmet food items, historical books and fine candies in a basket if possible; also crocheted blankets, seasonal quilts and gift cards.
- Our secretary, Kelly Villardi, will be more than happy to provide you with a tax donation letter for your donations.
Thank you for helping us with another successful raffle.
LACASSAR is very proud of the men’s accomplishments in the SAR, and for all the help you provide us. I always enjoy reading your Compatriot with particular interest in the meaningful events, public outreach and youtheducation you are involved with. Our own newsletter is full of important information because of your meaningfulacts of selflessness. Thank you. We admire your commitment.
Liz Ferris, President
California Ladies Auxiliary (LACASSAR)
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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.
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The Siege of Yorktown: Triumph at the Turning Point of Liberty
In the autumn of 1781, the long struggle for American independence reached its decisive climax at the Siege of Yorktown. After more than six years of sacrifice, hardship, and perseverance, the united forces of American patriots and their French allies dealt a final, crushing blow to British ambitions in the colonies. For members of the Sons of the American Revolution, Yorktown stands as a testament to the courage of our patriot ancestors, whose determination secured the blessings of liberty we honor today.
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The Road to Yorktown
By 1781, the Revolutionary War had dragged on with devastating costs to soldiers and civilians alike. General George Washington, commanding the Continental Army, had long sought a decisive engagement. The opportunity came when General Charles Cornwallis, commanding British forces in the South, entrenched his army at Yorktown, Virginia, on the York River.
Washington, with the brilliant support of French General Jean-Baptiste de Rochambeau, devised a bold plan: march the combined Franco-American forces from New York to Virginia while the French navy under Admiral de Grasse blocked Cornwallis’s escape by sea.
Washington later reflected, “I am now embarked in the most arduous enterprise which ever fell upon my shoulders.”
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The Siege Begins
On September 28, 1781, nearly 17,000 American and French soldiers surrounded Yorktown. Facing them were roughly 8,000 British troops under Cornwallis. Trenches were dug, artillery batteries placed, and a relentless bombardment commenced.
American patriotism soared during the siege. As cannons roared, one soldier recorded, “Our whole army is in high spirits, and determined to persevere to the last extremity.”
Key to the siege was the storming of two British redoubts (fortified positions) on the night of October 14. American troops, led by Alexander Hamilton, seized Redoubt No. 10 with bayonets fixed, while French forces captured Redoubt No. 9. These assaults sealed Cornwallis’s fate.
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Victory at Last
On October 19, 1781, Cornwallis surrendered his army to Washington. The British band, in a bitter gesture, played the tune “The World Turned Upside Down.”
Washington, always mindful of honor, refused Cornwallis’s personal surrender but instead, delegating it to his second-in-command, General Benjamin Lincoln, as a mirror to Lincoln’s forced surrender at Charleston the year before.
In his report to Congress, Washington declared: “The surrender of Yorktown will, I trust, essentially influence the future operations of the war, and hasten the happy moment of peace.”
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The Significance of Yorktown
The victory at Yorktown effectively ended major combat in the Revolutionary War. News of Cornwallis’s defeat reached London, where the shock reverberated through Parliament. Negotiations soon began, culminating in the Treaty of Paris (1783), which secured America’s independence.
For the Sons of the American Revolution, Yorktown is more than a military victory; it is the enduring symbol of unity, perseverance, and the sacrifice of ordinary patriots. Their steadfastness reminds us of the cost of freedom and the legacy we are bound to preserve.
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A Legacy to Remember
As we commemorate Yorktown, let us honor our patriot ancestors who stood resolute in the face of overwhelming odds. Their courage gave birth to a nation founded on liberty. For SAR members, their story is not just history, it is our heritage, and a call to carry forward the spirit of 1776 into our own communities and future generations.
“Posterity! You will never know how much it cost the present generation to preserve your freedom. I hope you will make good use of it.” — John Adams
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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
Please reach out to Randy Dhindsa if interested in participating!
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Reignite the Spirit: Harbor Chapter Showcases Revolutionary Legacy and America 250 Vision
The Harbor Chapter resumed its summer programming with an impactful July meeting centered on the ongoing America 250 initiative and the continued preservation of our Revolutionary War legacy. A major highlight of the evening was the presentation by California SAR President John Ferris, who delivered a moving and insightful reflection on the legacy of the Bicentennial Minute, a series of 60-second television segments broadcast nightly on CBS during the 1970s.
Drawing from his own high school memories of the 1976 celebration, Ferris explained how those brief televised moments united the country in learning about our founding—and how they have inspired the creation of today's America 250 Minute program. His remarks reminded all in attendance of our shared responsibility to keep Revolutionary history alive. “We may not have national broadcasts today,” Ferris said, “but we do have each other—and it is up to SAR, DAR, and CAR members to carry the torch forward.” Ferris concluded with his own rousing “America 250 Minute,” ending, as Walter Cronkite once did, with: “And that’s the way it is—August 14, 2025.”
The evening also featured a compelling presentation from the Drum Barracks Civil War Museum, the last remaining Civil War-era military installation in Southern California. Guests learned about the outpost’s critical role in preserving Union control of the western region during the Civil War and its ongoing mission to preserve military heritage. Special attention was given to the diverse soldiers who served at Drum Barracks, including African American troops who helped safeguard the frontier. As the Harbor Chapter looks ahead to its March 2026 America 250 banquet and fundraiser, this meeting set the tone for a year of meaningful reflection, public outreach, and renewed patriotic commitment.
Photo 2 Caption:
Harbor Chapter President James Bunker presents certificate of appreciation to Drum Barracks Museum Director Tara Fansler and staff.
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Compatriot Bruce Wearda "Challenges SAR" to show our patriotism by taking and posing with the Decade of the American Revolution Challenge Coin
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On August 2nd, California Society SAR President John Ferris attended the C.S.S.C.A.R. Southern Packet Workshop, held at the DAR State Headquarters in Glendora, CA.
Pictured with him are C.S.S.C.A.R. State President Julia Harr and Senior State President Emily Boling. The Southern Packet brings together C.A.R. society leaders to discuss upcoming state and national programs, fostering collaboration and preparing for another exciting year of youth-led initiatives.
| | Compatriot Phil Mitchel and President John Ferris presented challenges coins celebrating Decade of the American Revolution to three orange county Sheriff Deputies. They were invited to join SAR and DAR! | | 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
Yosemite Chapter - John Chris Julian - # 217774
Yosemite Chapter - George "Al" Ludwig - # 170741
Yosemite Chapter - Ed Bates - # 128471
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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 — September 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.
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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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