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Fellow Compatriots,
It is an honor to write to you as the 137th President of the California Society of the Sons of the American Revolution. When I stood before you at our annual conference and accepted this role, I made you a promise, and this message is where that promise begins to take shape.
My path to SAR began in 2015, when I inherited my grandmother’s genealogy book after she passed. Leafing through its pages, I found a Revolutionary War pay voucher for my
sixth great-grandfather, and I was hooked. What started as a quiet discovery became one of the great passions of my life and eventually led me to stand before you as your president. I share that story not to fill space, but because it reflects something I believe deeply: the work we do matters, and it often starts with a single moment of discovery that changes everything.
In my acceptance address, I laid out three pillars that will shape my presidency. I want to revisit them here, because I intend to be held accountable to them.
Visibility in our communities
Flag certificates, school programs, JROTC engagement, and community events are not small gestures, they are how we tell our story, recruit members of all generations, and keep the flame of patriotism alive in every corner of this great state. I want to deepen this work and ensure that every chapter has the tools and support to be visible and active locally.
Strengthening the SAR, DAR, and C.A.R. partnership
SAR, DAR, and C.A.R. are the three legs that hold up the foundation upon which our stories, service, and education are built. I want to encourage joint committees, shared events, and a culture of collaboration; specially around welcoming and nurturing junior members into SAR. Just as a Liberty Tree must be tended to thrive, so too must these partnerships. I intend to tend to them.
Bringing the energy home
What happens at our state conferences should not stay at our state conferences. I am asking every compatriot who attended, and every one of you reading this, to bring the spirit of what we share together back to your chapters. Spread the word. Invite new members. Join us in the fall and bring someone with you.
I also want to take a moment to offer my sincere and heartfelt thanks to my predecessor, Compatriot John Ferris. John led this Society with dedication, grace, and a genuine commitment to our mission, and the example he set is one I will carry with me throughout my tenure. I am grateful for his leadership, and I have big shoes to fill. I will do my best to honor the standard he established.
We live in a remarkable moment. As America celebrates her 250th anniversary, our mission has never felt more timely or more important. I am grateful for the trust you have placed in me, for the friendship of so many compatriots across this state, and for a Society that has enriched my life in ways I never could have anticipated when I first opened that genealogy book eleven years ago.
Thank you for the honor of a lifetime.
Yours in patriotism and service,
Randy Dhindsa
137th President, California Society
Sons of the American Revolution
| | Welcome April New Compatriots! | | | Thomas Jefferson | Mark Christopher Wimmer-Bauman
| | Thomas Jefferson | Craig Alexander Hill
| | Thomas Jefferson | Eric Connor Hill
| | Thomas Jefferson | Michael Allen Hill
| | Yosemite | Anthony Warren Eric Cresap
| | Yosemite | William Floyd Cabe II
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Currently: 229 Bronze, 151 Silver, and 115 Gold!
(including 19 Gold Medals awarded to non-members).
The California Society now leads the nation in the number of Gold Medals presented to Compatriots—an outstanding achievement. Keep up the great work and continue exploring and sharing the story of 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! | | |
Follow the America 250 Daily
Historical Series on Instagram
The America 250 Daily Historical Series, created by America 250 Chair James Bunker, brings the story of the American Revolution to life through engaging, research-based daily reels. Each month explores a different theme—such as the British imperial crisis, global and frontier conflicts, defining moments of liberty, and the lived experiences of soldiers and civilians—offering a deeper and more structured understanding of the era. The series highlights key battles, influential figures, international alliances, and often overlooked perspectives to broaden public understanding of the Revolution—follow along and join the journey to 1776 at: https://www.instagram.com/california_sar/
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May is Military Appreciation Month!
The Sons of the American Revolution honors all who have served and continue to serve our nation.
This month—and always—we remember their sacrifice and thank them for defending the freedoms first secured by our Patriot ancestors.
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Event registration is filling quickly. Don’t forget to register for the activities using the link below.
SAR 250 Independence Day
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136th SAR Annual Congress in Greensboro NC July 10 - 16 2026. Registration opening soon!!
The Sons of the American Revolution National Congress is an annual multi-day meeting of members from across the country to conduct business, elect officers, learn, explore, and celebrate the achievements of individuals, State SARs, and Youth Contest Winners. North Carolina SAR is honored to host the 2026 Congress, in the 250th year of the Nation’s Independence.
Visit the NC Congress website for volunteer signup, hotel reservations, Patriot Grave Marking Schedule and more!
2026 National Congress – North Carolina SAR
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California SAR 151st Annual Spring Meeting
Visalia California
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On April 24th and 25th the California SAR concluded a highly successful 151st Annual Spring Meeting in Visalia, California, graciously hosted by the Yosemite Chapter. The weekend brought together compatriots from across the state in a spirit of camaraderie, fellowship, and shared purpose as we continue building momentum toward America 250.
The meeting opened Friday with the posting of the colors by our Color Guard, led by State Commander Kevin Forrest, setting a proud and patriotic tone for the weekend. We were honored to welcome California DAR State Regent-Elect Christine McMahan and California C.A.R. Senior State President Kristen Blackburn-Kaufman, who brought greetings during the opening session. Their participation highlighted the strong and growing partnership between SAR, DAR, and C.A.R..
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This year’s business sessions were efficiently completed in a single day, allowing members to focus not only on the work of the Society but also on fellowship and shared experiences.
Friday evening, attendees enjoyed a Fresno Grizzlies minor league baseball game, where our Color Guard once again represented the SAR with distinction by presenting the colors during the National Anthem before a large public audience.
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Saturday morning, the Society reintroduced breakout sessions covering Youth Programs, Americanism Reporting, and Genealogy. These sessions were well attended and provided valuable insight and practical tools to support chapter success across the state.
Saturday afternoon, our program continued with our Youth Awards, featuring the winning entry from Emery Peñaloza, who also earned second place at the national level—an impressive achievement and a testament to the strength of our youth programs.
Following the awards, members gathered for a moving memorial service honoring compatriots who passed during the past year. The ceremony served as a solemn reminder of the legacy we carry forward and the enduring bonds that unite us.
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The Saturday evening banquet was a fitting culmination of the weekend. During the banquet, new state officers were officially installed:
- President: Randy Dhindsa
- Executive Vice President: Brandon Villardi
- Vice President North: Dan Shurtz
- Vice President South: Kevin Bidenkap
- Vice President Membership: Scott Whitman
- Secretary: Steve Andrews
- Treasurer: Philip Mitchell
- Registrar: David Arthurs
- Chancellor: Michael Hirman
- Historian: Steve Belden
- Chaplain: Scott Elliott
- Surgeon: Dr. Matthew Bowdish
We wish all of our newly installed officers great success during their 2026–2027 term.
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The banquet also featured a moving Missing Man Table & Ceremony, led by Kevin Knapp, paying tribute to those who never returned home.
The keynote address was delivered by Paul Loeffler, who has devoted nearly two decades to honoring America’s veterans. Through his radio program, Hometown Heroes, and as founder of Central Valley Honor Flight, he has helped raise millions of dollars to send more than 2,200 veterans to Washington, D.C., ensuring their service is recognized and remembered.
A man of deep faith and service, Mr. Loeffler’s impact extends well beyond his public work—having donated a kidney to a friend and continually inspiring others through his example of selflessness and dedication. In recognition of his extraordinary contributions, he was presented with the Silver Good Citizenship Medal.
Additional honors were also presented during the banquet. Immediate Past President John Ferris was inducted into the Marine Corps League in recognition of his continued support, with the induction conducted by Bill Nay from Redwood empire.
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California C.A.R. Western Region Vice President Julia Harr was also awarded the Silver Good Citizenship Medal for her outstanding work educating youth about the founding of our nation through her marionette program.
We were especially proud to recognize Kevin Knapp as the recipient of this year’s Patriot Award—the highest honor awarded at the state level—for his leadership in reorganizing the Gen. George Washington Chapter and his continued dedication to the SAR.
We were also honored by the presence of visiting National General Officers, including P.G. Joe Dooley of Virginia, Treasurer General Brooks Lyles of North Carolina and Historian General Jeffrey Thomas of Virginia. We sincerely thank them for making the long journey to join us—your support was greatly appreciated.
All in all, the 151st Annual Spring Meeting was a tremendous success—blending education, recognition, remembrance, and fellowship. Our sincere thanks go to the Yosemite Chapter for their outstanding hospitality, and to all who attended and contributed to such a memorable and meaningful weekend.
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Reno Brings SAR, DAR and C.A.R. Together | |
On March 28th, California SAR President John R. Ferris, Western Vice President General Jim Klingler, and VP South Brandon Villardi joined our fellow Western District compatriots at the Nevada SAR, DAR, and C.A.R. Joint State Conference in Reno, Nevada.
It was great to see all three organizations coming together and working side by side. The support and attendance from SAR President General Michael J. Elston and DAR President General Ginnie Sebastian Storage made the event even more special.
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In May 1776, the American colonies moved decisively closer to independence, as political leaders began replacing royal authority with self-governing institutions. While independence had not yet been formally declared, actions taken during this month marked a critical transition from resistance to the creation of new governments.
On May 10, the Second Continental Congress recommended that colonies lacking stable governments adopt new forms of governance suited to their circumstances. Five days later, on May 15, Congress approved a preamble—supported strongly by John Adams—stating that the exercise of authority under the British Crown should be suppressed and that new governments should be established based on the authority of the people. This preamble accompanied the earlier resolution and clarified Congress’s position that continued allegiance to royal authority was no longer tenable.
At the same time, individual colonies were taking similar steps. On May 15, the Virginia Convention instructed its delegates in Congress to propose independence, to seek foreign alliances, and to assist in forming a confederation of the colonies. These instructions made Virginia the first colony to formally authorize its representatives to pursue independence.
Following these developments, several colonies began drafting new state constitutions and reorganizing their governments without royal approval. These changes reflected a shift toward self-government grounded in representation and the consent of the governed.
The actions of May 1776 directly preceded the next major step. On June 7, Richard Henry Lee introduced a resolution in Congress declaring that the colonies “are, and of right ought to be, free and independent states.” Consideration of this resolution led Congress to appoint a committee to draft a declaration explaining the reasons for independence. That document, adopted on July 4, 1776, formally announced the separation of the colonies from Great Britain.
May 1776 stands as a pivotal moment when the colonies began establishing independent governments, laying the political groundwork for the Declaration of Independence and the formation of a new nation.
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Spain’s Role in Securing American Independence
As we approach the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, we remember that American independence was not won alone. Adopted on July 4, 1776, the Declaration marked the beginning of a long and uncertain war, one that required support beyond the colonies.
While France is often recognized for its alliance, Spain also played a crucial—though frequently overlooked—role. Without formally allying with the United States, Spain provided financial aid, supplies, and military pressure against British forces. Campaigns led by Bernardo de Gálvez helped secure key victories along the Gulf Coast and Mississippi River, weakening British control and aiding the Patriot cause.
Spain’s contributions came at significant cost and were instrumental in stretching British resources during the war. As we commemorate America 250, it is important to recognize not only the courage of our Patriot ancestors but also the international support that made independence possible. The American Revolution was part of a broader global struggle—one that reminds us that the cause of liberty was strengthened by allies who stood alongside it.
Recommended Reading
For a deeper understanding, consider Spain and the American Revolution: New Approaches and Perspectives, edited by Gabriel Paquette and Gonzalo M. Quintero Saravia. This work explores the Revolution as an international conflict and highlights Spain’s vital contributions to American independence.
| | This April marked an exciting milestone as our chapter officially adopted a new Chapter Flag. Pictured alongside Board of Managers and Coachella Valley Chapter participants (left to right): Brennan Pardee, Dave Arthurs, Kenny Vick, and Chris Cerillo. | | |
Delta Chapter Joins Stockton DAR for Honors Presentation
Delta - Redwood Empire
Delta Chapter had the honor of joining the Stockton El Toyon Chapter, NSDAR. Bill Nay of the Redwood Empire Chapter assisted Michael E. Hair in the Delta Chapter Color Guard and delivered a presentation on the “Decade of the American Revolution,” highlighting the pivotal events that shaped our nation’s path to independence.
A highlight of the afternoon was the presentation of Honor Quilts in recognition of military service—a touching and deeply appreciated gesture. We were also pleased to have CA SAR VP North Danny Shurtz in attendance, along with Sgt. Frank Wright of the Delta Chapter, who joined us thanks to the efforts of Marvin Estuardo Hernandez Garcia.
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Honoring a Real Daughter of the Revolution
Harbor - South Coast - Sons of Liberty - Orange County
On April 18th, the SAR Color Guard had the honor of presenting the colors at a DAR Real Daughter grave marking for Elizabeth Hagen Goss Wilcox, daughter of Revolutionary War soldier Ephraim Abbot Goss.
Ephraim enlisted at the young age of 15 and served as a fifer during the war—an important role in guiding troop movements and maintaining order on the battlefield.
The ceremony, hosted by the Los Angeles Eschscholtzia Chapter, NSDAR, was held at Evergreen Cemetery. It was a meaningful tribute, bringing together members of SAR and DAR to honor both Elizabeth Wilcox and the legacy of her Patriot father.
The Color Guard was comprised of Commander Kevin Forrest (South Coast), President John Ferris (Orange County), Vice President South Brandon Villardi (Harbor), Lucas Villardi (Harbor), and Norman Kelsey (Sons of Liberty), whose participation added to the dignity and significance of the occasion.
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Harbor Presents Colors at Point Vicente NSDAR Youth Awards
Harbor - Orange County - Kern
On April 18, the Harbor Chapter Color Guard had the honor of presenting the colors for the Point Vicente Chapter, NSDAR Youth Awards program. The event recognized outstanding youth and highlighted the continued partnership between SAR and DAR in promoting patriotism and education.
Pictured left to right: Chapter Regent Laura Mueller; Color Guard members Lucas Villardi, Brandon Villardi, John Ferris (Orange County), James Gill, Bruce Wearda (Kern), and Past Regent Alta Graham.
A special thank you to John Ferris and Bruce Wearda for helping make this a memorable and successful event.
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April 11th Liberty Tree & Bench Dedication
The Kern Chapter proudly hosted a Liberty Tree and Bench Dedication. Highlights included a distinguished Color Guard presentation, the stirring sounds of the Mountain Fife & Drum Corps, ceremonial musket volleys, and even cannon fire—creating a truly immersive and patriotic experience.
The event was exceptionally well attended, and our chapter was honored by the strong support from the community. Guests included local news representatives, elected officials, SAR State Officers, and our valued partners in DAR and C.A.R.
| | Kern County 3rd District Supervisor Jeff Flores, Bakersfield City Councilman Larry Koman, Assemblywoman Dr. Bains, field agent Juan Hernandez Garcia, CA Senator Grove field agent Christine Diaz, Kern SAR Bruce Wearda, CA Senator Hurtado field agent Janet Tapia, US Congressman Valadao field agent Steven Kemp, Mayor Karen Goh, Mrs. Bakersfield, Angela Moretti | |  | SAR America 250 Bench Dedication alongside the Liberty Tree dedicated in 2010 by then Mayor and city council. L-R. 3rd District County Supervisor Jeff Flores, Mayor Karen Goh, Kern Chapter SAR Arnie Burr, and Mrs. Bakersfield, Angela Morettii. | | | |
California SAR State officers
Randy Dhindsa
John Ferris
Brandon Villardi
| | Local CAR Society, Betsy Ross, Supervisor Flores, Mayor Goh, Kern SAR Bruce Heard, CA Society President John Ferris. (Kern Veterans Memorial in the background) | | |
The Kern color guard was part of the Emblem California, Nevada, Hawaii regional meeting in Bakersfield. Part of their patriotism component.
Bruce Wearda, Mike Davis, Rod Goodman, Larry Carroll
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Gen. George Washington Chapter | |
The General George Washington Chapter, active since January 17, 2026, continues to grow and gain momentum. While still building membership and organizational structure across a region spanning 10 counties and more than 60,000 square miles, the Chapter is actively advancing the Sons of the American Revolution mission of promoting patriotism, serving our communities, and educating and inspiring future generations.
The Chapter recently hosted a recruiting display at the Glenn County Veterans Stand Down, increasing visibility and resulting in local media coverage, including a television interview.
| Newly created General George Washington Chapter challenge coins are now available and are being used to recognize excellence, express appreciation, and build Chapter pride. As a newly established Chapter, proceeds also support outreach efforts, including Youth Programs, America 250 initiatives, First Responder recognition, and awards presentations. | In collaboration with the Daughters of the American Revolution Major Pierson B. Reading and Chico Chapters, members have launched the “1776 Ladies and North State Minute Men” program. This living history presentation features portrayals of Martha Washington, Abigail Adams, Betsy Ross, Penelope Barker, a Virginia colonial soldier, Agent 355, and Gideon Chalker of the Connecticut Militia, bringing Revolutionary War history to life. The program has already been presented at four elementary schools and the California Veterans Home. | |
Chapter members have also supported numerous community events, including Preston Sharp’s Veterans Flags and Flowers fundraiser; Color Guard presentations for the Chief Solano Chapter DAR meeting and state conferences; the Simpson University Veterans Success Center fundraiser; four days supporting The Wall That Heals in Orland, California; the 2026 Ronald Reagan Debate Series at Simpson University; the Red Bluff Round-Up Patriot Night and Parade; and ongoing participation in the Major Pierson B. Reading Chapter DAR monthly meetings.
In just four months, the Chapter has established a strong foundation and remains focused on continued growth, service, and impact throughout Northern California.
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Riverside Chapter
You can read the latest chapter newsletter here
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Friday, May 1, 2026, I attended a Ceremony to honor Captain Royce Williams, USNR , age 101, Is both the latest and oldest surviving recipient of our Nation's highest recognition of military valor, the Medal of Honor.
On behalf of the Sons of the American Revolution, I presented Captain Williams with an American flag that had once flown over the United States Capital, Washington DC.
At the closing of the ceremonies, we toasted Captain Williamswith his favorite bourbon, Monkey Shoulder!
W.H. "Skip" Cox, II
Sons of the American Revolution
San Diego Chapter
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Thomas Jefferson Chapter
You can read the latest chapter newsletter here
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Yosemite Chapter Dedicates Nation’s Largest Liberty Tree in Fresno
On Tuesday, April 21, 2026, the Yosemite Chapter of the Sons of the American
Revolution, in partnership with the County of Fresno, dedicated the nation’s largest
Liberty Tree, a stately 45-foot-tall native Valley Oak tree in Fresno’s Courthouse Park. The Yosemite Chapter Color Guard presented and posted the Colors for the event.
This project came about through efforts of Yosemite Chapter Registrar, now California
State SAR President, Randy Dhindsa, and Fresno County Supervisor Nathan Magsig.
Supervisor Magsig led the charge of getting all of the necessary governmental
approvals to plant the tree and install the monuments in under 30 days. This was a monumental achievement as we all know that the wheels of progress move slowly when governmental agencies are involved. The $70,000 for this project was funded through a special trust from the Ernest Lawrence Estate. Jim Riley, Executive VP of The Yosemite Chapter, donated the two granite slabs used to make the memorials and Bell Memorials in Clovis donated the memorial artwork. It was truly a total community effort.
Fresno County also provided a large tent, podium, audio equipment, chairs and programs for the ceremony which included speakers from the County Board of Supervisors and the Yosemite Chapter, SAR. Also present were representatives from the offices of US Congressman Jim Costa, State Senators Shannon Grove and Anna Caballero and State Assemblymember David Tangipa. City Councilman Mike Karbassi was also present.
California State SAR President Randy Dhindsa gave a speech as did Yosemite Chapter President, Scott Nichols, who spoke on the history of the Liberty Tree.
The weather that day was blustery and stormy, with tornados touching down in north Fresno, but the sun came out for our ceremony. Providence was shining on us!
| | Yosemite Chapter SAR Color Guard at Liberty Tree Ceremony: from left to right: Curtis Replogle, Harlie Smith, Scott Nichols, California SAR President, Randy Dhindsa, Jim Riley | | |
Yosemite Chapter SAR color guard with Fresno County Board of Supervisors, “planting” the Liberty Tree
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Congratulations to New C.A.R. Leadership
The California Sons of the American Revolution extends its sincere congratulations to the newly installed California Society Children of the American Revolution Presidents:
State President Eilidh Kraus
Senior State President Kristen Blackburn-Kaufman
We also wish to express our heartfelt appreciation to Honorary State President Julia Harr and Honorary Senior State President Emily Boling for their dedication, leadership, and continued support throughout their 2025–2026 terms.
We look forward to learning more about President Eilidh Kraus’s State Project, Branches of Freedom, and supporting its success in the year ahead.
As we look ahead, we encourage all California compatriots to promote dual membership opportunities for our Junior members in both SAR and C.A.R. Not only does this strengthen engagement with peers, but it also provides invaluable leadership development and a deeper connection to our shared mission.
Additionally, C.A.R. is actively working toward earning the SAR President General’s Traveling Banner for the highest number of dual members—an effort we are proud to support.
We also extend our congratulations to our fellow SAR members serving on the California C.A.R. State Board: Scott Elliott, Bruce Wearda, and Brandon Villardi. Your continued service and leadership are greatly appreciated.
For questions regarding C.A.R. membership or how to get involved, please contact our newly appointed CA SAR C.A.R. Liaison:
Bruce Wearda – brucewearda@gmail.com
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Upcoming Color Guard Events
Open to All Guardsmen
| | *note you must log into SAR.org to view National files* | | |
For questions concerning upcoming events or inquiries into joining the Color Guard please contact:
Kevin Forrest, SAR California Color Guard Commander
Scott Nichols, SAR California Color Guard Adjutant North
Duncan Campbell, 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.
| | Our youth programs play a vital role in advancing the mission of the California Sons of the American Revolution by inspiring the next generation to learn, lead, and serve. Through a variety of contests and recognition opportunities, we encourage students to explore the principles of our founding, develop their talents, and engage with their communities. Below is a list of upcoming due dates and awards (subject to change). For specific questions about any program, please contact the State Program Chair by clicking the link provided for each contest. | | | Chapter | Compatriot | | Thomas Jefferson | Michael Dean Logan
| | Thomas Jefferson | Richard Lowell Logan
| | Thomas Jefferson | Christopher Lee Zollinger Jr
| | Delta | Michael James McDonough
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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 Don Littlefield, Chairman of the Nominating Committee at: dblittlefield@comcast.net
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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 — May 29th, 2026 Deadline
Please send news of events and high-resolution digital photos to:
bvillardi.SAR@outlook.com
(Email for articles only)
— 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: Brandon Villardi
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