|
The Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) Color Guards play a vital role in preserving the legacy of the American Revolution and educating the public about the sacrifices and ideals that shaped the birth of the United States. As the most visible representation of the SAR, the Color Guard is the outward "face" of the organization, embodying patriotism, historical significance, and a commitment to honoring the nation's founding principles.
One of the primary functions of the SAR Color Guard is to participate in public events, ceremonies, parades, and educational programs. Their presence at these events serves as a powerful visual reminder of the Revolutionary War era, sparking curiosity and interest among spectators. The Color Guard members, dressed in authentic period uniforms, bring history to life and create a tangible connection to the past. This visual representation not only educates the public but also instills a sense of pride and appreciation for the nation's heritage.
| |
Don Littlefield
President
California Society Sons of the American Revolution
| | |
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.
| | |
America 250th
Anniversary Recognition Program
| | |
Currently: 192 Bronze, 128 Silver and 62 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.
| | |
250th Celebration of the
Battle of Lexington and Concord
Hosted by the Massachusetts Society
and the New England District
Friday, April 18, 2025 - Sunday, April 20, 2025
| | |
SAR National 250th Commemoration
of the
United States Army
Compatriots,
You are cordially invited to participate in the SAR National 250th Commemoration of the United States Army. This event is planned for Saturday, June 14th, so mark your calendars for this special event to be held at George Washington's Mount Vernon and the National Museum of the United States Army at Fort Belvoir, Virginia. This event will also offer a once in a lifetime opportunity to participate in a special grave marking ceremony for George and Martha Washington. You do not want to miss it.
See the attached Save the Date flyer for more information. Registration will open the week of April 21st. Look for more information about hotel reservations coming soon.
Patriotically,
Jeff
Jeff Thomas
Historian General
America 250 Chair
Sons of the American Revolution
| | |
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.
| | |
Surgeon General's Notebook, Volume XV
Compatriots:
Attached is Surgeon General's Notebook, Volume XV. To Sleep, Perchance to Dream (with apologies to William Shakespeare).
Yours in good health,
John Turley MD
Surgeon General 2024-2025
| | NSSAR Operational Plan 2030 | | |
Did you ever want to know where the SAR is heading? What are its goals and objectives. Click the link to review the latest draft of the SAR's 5-year operational plan. It is a draft, so they are looking for input. It is a great way to understand who we are and where you fit into the organization.
NSSAR Operational Plan 2030
| Dr. Joseph Warren Documentary Coming Soon! | |
Dear SAR Compatriots,
The SAR has a unique opportunity to further entrench itself as a leader in historic preservation, education and inspiration for generations to come. The Dr. Joseph Warren Foundation—a 501c3 nonprofit—is hard at work to complete a full-length documentary about founding father, Dr. Joseph Warren. The goal is to complete the documentary by the spring of 2026. Dr. Joseph Warren gave his life for our country before we were the United States of America. We owe it to his revolutionary spirit to commemorate and celebrate his legacy and educate the succeeding generations of patriots.
The unique opportunity is for SAR (as a key sponsor) is to have an “on screen” presence during the prolog of the film. Being interviewed to explain why the core values, bravery and patriotism so important then, are just as important today. As we state, the SAR mission is to carry on education and patriotic values to inspire generations to come. If we don’t lead by example to ensure the Dr. Joseph Warren legacy prevails, then who will?
What we have:
-
Partnership with the DJWF on continued education and exposure (websites, logos, links) www.DJWF.org
-
Engagement of Hollywood Producer Michael S. Emerson, to make this film. https://m.imdb.com/name/nm0256512/
- Emerson has been in talks with the History Channel, Fox Nation, and A&E.
- History Channel agreed to air the documentary once completed.
- Engagement of academy award-winner, Richard Dreyfuss to narrate the film
-
Extended trailer: https://www.djwf.org/dreyfuss
-
Brief trailer: https://www.djwf.org/the-trailer
- The fervent patriotic zeal that is currently upon us… THE TIMING IS NOW.
- A commitment from NSSAR of $5,000 to support this project
What we can have:
- SAR to have “on-screen” presence…being interviewed to highlight values and mission
- SAR links and logos on all publicity and social media
- SAR ability to utilize the documentary as part of educational platform
- SAR will have enduring national exposure for decades to come as a patriotic educational leader
What we need:
- Total SAR sponsorship of at least $25,000
- Support from Committees, States, Chapters and Individuals
- Time is of the essence…to complete by July 4, 2026…the window is NOW.
- EVERY Compatriot can support this important effort…no matter the amount… together we can all bring this tremendous opportunity to reality
Donate today to support this amazing opportunity to further expand the SAR as an education leader for decades to come!
| | |
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!
| |
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.
| | |
It's almost here!
150th Annual Meeting
April 25-26, 2025
| | For details click the link. | | President Benny White presents the 250 Bronze award for CAR Temecula Creek Society Evelynn Rudolf. | Eagle Chapter President Benny White presents a Flag certificate to the C.A.R. Temecula Creek Society. Society President Jay Rudolf accepting. | | Sea Cadet Carter Espinoza of the Pyro Division holds his Sea Cadet Bronze Good Citizenship with companion Ribbon alongside Compatriot Bill Nay of the Redwood Empire Chapter. | | During Sea Cadet Espinoza's presentation ceremony, Bill Nay (left), President Daniel Van Valkenburg (center), and Past President William Van Valkenburg (right) take a quick picture. | | Redwood Empire Chapter Bill and Karen Nay were guests at the DAR San Andreas Lake Chapter meeting, in Belmont. California. | | At the DAR San Andreas Lake Chapter meeting, Compatriot Bill Nay gave an America 250 presentation with a focus on the highlights of the Continental Marine engagements. | | |
Sacramento Chapter 1776 Book Challenge
In September 2023, the Sacramento Chapter began raising funds, purchasing and donating books to 5th grade classrooms in the greater Sacramento area. Their goal was to donate 1,776 books to area classrooms by the 250th anniversary of the ratification of the Declaration of Independence on July 4th, 2026. 18 months later, the chapter was pleased to announce that they have achieved their initial goal!
| | On March 6th they delivered the 1,776th book to the Lone Tree Elementary School on Beale AFB near Marysville, CA in conjunction with providing a living history presentation to a school assembly of three 5th grade classrooms. | |
The generosity of SAR members, community members, civic organizations, and businesses who have supported of this program has made it possible for thousands of young students, over the life of these books, to learn about the value of their heritage, the cost of their freedoms, and the meaning of true patriotism.
The Sacramento Chapter plans on moving forward with a second set of 1,776 books as funding is available.
A letter from the School Principal was received on March 17th, 2025:
Carl,
We deeply appreciate that you honored our school with this visit. I’m sure Melissa shared with you, but I posted out on our school page about your presentation. The children and staff simply loved this presentation. I visited Mrs. Sanocki’s room on Friday and the class was doing a book read of the book your group so graciously donated.
Thank you so much!
Jodie Jacklett
Principal, Lone Tree School
Director, Wheatland Charter Academy
123 Beale Hwy., Beale AFB, CA 95903
https://www.facebook.com/WSDTeamLone
| | |
Join the San Diego Chapter for this exciting recreation of the battle of Lexington and Concord where the Patriots of the American Revolution fought the Redcoats. We will have (and need):
- Period British Uniforms
- Period American clothing
- Docents to explain the event
- Displays and hands on exhibits
Because of the number of members and British reenactors traveling to the East Coast to participate in those events we are in need of redcoats! Please contact our event lead, Michael Hirman, at mhirman@hotmail.com if you want to participate in any way.
The event will be near Prado and Sixth Avenue at the entrance to the Park and will take place from 10am until 12noon. Muster for participants will be 9:15am although there will be setup activities beginning around 8am.
Updates, if needed, will be at: https://www.sarsandiego.org/events/lexington-concord/
| | At the recent Sons of Liberty Chapter meeting, President Mark Cross (right) presents Jeffery Prang with a Supplemental. | | |
Executive Vice President John Ferris swears in the new Sons of Liberty Chapter officers.
L-R: Paul Lucky, Don Jones, Mark Cross (President), David Berry, David Morrow, Kent Troxel, John Ferris.
| | |
The South Coast’s guest dinner speaker was Mr. Dana Parker, a living re-enactor who came in his persona of James Madison, the acclaimed “Father of the Constitution” and 4th President of the United States.
L to R: Nolan Forrest, Kevin Forest, Dana Parker, Scott Whitman, and Jim Hernandez.
| | During the meeting, Leon Smith (Right), South Coast Registrar/Genealogist, inducted new member Ronald Zent (Center), whose patriot ancestor was John Gant. They are pictured with Mr. Zent’s daughter, Tessa. | | |
On Saturday March 8th, a combined California Color Guard marched in the 58th Annual Laguna Beach patriots Day Parade. Color Guard Members from the South Coast, Orange County and Harbor Chapters took part and managed to win 1st Place for their category.
The Laguna Beach Patriots Day Parade, a cherished tradition since 1967, was conceived by Emily Ross, a member of the Patience Wright Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution, to instill a love of country and respect for the flag. After the 2024 Parade was rained out, the weather was perfect to allow the 2025 Parade to take place.
L-R: Kevin Forrest (South Coast) Nolan Forrest (SC) Jim Hernandez (SC) Ken Winiecki (Harbor) & Chris Keene (Orange County)
| | |
On March 26th, two Orange County Chapter Continentals joined the South Coast Chapter Marines posting the Colors at the Huntington Harbor Coast Guard Auxiliary.
L-R: Jim Hernandez, John Ferris, Scott Whitman, Mike Miller, and Color Guard Commander Adjutant, South, Kevin Forrest.
| |
|
Thomas Jefferson Chapter
The Thomas Jefferson Chapter is celebrating 100 years this October. See Flier for details.
| | |
The Color Guard from the Yosemite Chapter joined a California State SAR Color Guard for the presentation and Posting of the Colors at the recent California State meeting of DAR in Burlingame, CA on March 14, 2025
L-R: Randy Dhindsa, Ken Winiecki, Scott Nichols, Brandon Villardi and Kevin Knapp.
| | |
On March 15, 2025, The California SAR Color Guard presented the Colors at the CSSDAR State Conference, Burlingame.
L-R: Kevin Knapp, Brandon Villardi, Bruce Wearda, Ken Winiecki and Don Littlefield.
| | |
On Saturday March 22nd, the California SAR Color Guard marched in the 65th Annual San Juan Capistrano Swallows Day Parade. The Swallows Day Parade started as a local school carnival celebrating the annual return of the Cliff Swallows. It soon became an equestrian event and has now become the largest non-motorized parade in the country.
Color Guard Members from the South Coast, Harbor; Orange County and San Diego Chapters took part, marching with multiple California DAR Chapters and CAR societies. The SAR added the Spanish Flag to the Color Guard to honor the 4, confirmed, Spanish patriots buried at the San Juan Capistrano Mission.
L-R: Gary Gauger (San Diego); Lucas Villardi (Harbor); Brandon Villardi (H); Larry Stratton (Orange County); Mike Miller (OC); Bob Maples (South Coast); Jim Hernandez (SC); Kevin Forrest (SC); Nolan Forrest (SC)
| | |
A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE NATIONAL SAR COLOR GUARD
The National SAR Color Guard was established in 1989 during the tenure of President General James R. Westlake (GA). It was formed as the National Society Color Guard Committee under the leadership of Compatriots David Judson Gray and Donald Norman Moran. Initially, the National Color Guard comprised six compatriots representing five state societies.
The primary objectives of the Color Guard were to:
- Provide guidance and coordination for State Society and Chapter Color Guards during National Congresses and Trustee meetings.
- Assist State Societies and local Chapters in forming their own Color Guards.
By 2000, the National Color Guard had expanded to 32 members representing 14 state societies. Today, more than 50 members from over 25 state societies actively participate in the National Society SAR's three annual meetings. The National Color Guard has become the most visible public representation of the Sons of the American Revolution.
Color Guardsmen serve as a distinctive and recognizable presence at parades and memorial events, offering a vibrant display of uniforms and flags that attract public interest. Their presence often encourages children, spectators, and potential members to engage and learn more about the American Revolution.
Donald N. Moran also played a key role as the California Society's first State Commander following the creation of the California Society Color Guard. Below is a list of California Society State Color Guard Commanders:
- 1984-2003 — Donald N. Moran — Sons of Liberty Chapter
- 2003-2004 — Charles R. Lampman — Riverside Chapter
- 2004-2005 — Thomas H. Chilton, Jr. — Sacramento Chapter
- 2005-2009 — Donald N. Moran — Sons of Liberty Chapter
- 2012-2016 — James C. Fosdyck — Orange County Chapter
- 2016-2021 — Mark W. Kramer — Riverside Chapter
- 2021-Present — Brandon Villardi — Harbor Chapter
| | |
Upcoming Color Guard Events
Open to all Guardsmen
• April 05 - San Joaquin Valley CAR Organizing Meeting - 11:00am Turlock, CA
• April 12 - El Redondo Luncheon 11am Palos Verdes - Registration required for meal. Register by March 15th for discount
• April 12 - Yosemite Chapter to present and post colors for Yosemite Chapter DAR in Fresno, approx. 930 AM
• April 19 - Battle of Lexington and Concord - 10:00am - Balboa Park San Diego, CA (Reenactment style)
• April 25 - CASSAR Annual Meeting - Opening Session - 08:00am - Costa Mesa, CA
• April 26 - CASSAR Annual Meeting - Memorial Service – 1pm - Costa Mesa, CA
• April 26 - CASSAR Annual Meeting - Formal Banquet and Retirement of Colors - 6:30pm - Costa Mesa, CA (Registration Required)
• April 30 - Yosemite chapter to present Colors for Central Valley Honor Flight, Fresno Air Terminal, approx. 6PM
• May 10 - 250th Anniversary of 2nd Continental Congress - Lake Tahoe, CA 10am muster (Registration Required) Flier
• May 17 - Armed Forces Day - 12pm - Torrance, CA (Colonial attire preferred or Patriotic Attire welcome) Flier
• May 22 - Fields of Honor - 09:00am Castaway Park, Irvine, CA
• May 24 - Flag Placement Ceremony - Present Colors during morning ceremony - 07:00am LA National Cemetery Los Angeles
• May 25 - Yosemite Chapter to present Colors at Clovis Community Concert Band event, Clovis, CA approx. 1 pm
• May 26 - Memorial Day - Multiple invitation. More information to come
o Harbor – LA National Cemetery - 08:00am – Los Angeles, CA
o South Coast - 09:00am - El Toro Memorial Park
• June 14 - Yosemite chapter in joint meeting with Yosemite Chapter DAR, Present and Post colors, approx. 0930. Fresno.
• June 20 - CAR Western Regional Meeting - Knotts Berry Farm Hotel and Independence Hall (Multiple Events starting at Noon)
• July 4th - Independence Day - Multiple invitations.
o Harbor / OC / South Coast - Huntington Beach Parade - Huntington Beach, Ca Muster- TBD
o OC - Let Freedom Ring - 05:45pm - Cerritos, CA
o Yosemite Chapter to present Colors at Fresno Grizzlies baseball game, approx. 730PM, Fresno
For details on these and many more click Color Guard Schedule
| | |
Looking for more information on joining the Color Guard?
Uniforms & Period Clothing
Townsend & Son, Inc.
https://www.townsends.us/
18th Century Clothing
Black Wool Felt Tricorn
Revolutionary War Regiment Coat
Revolutionary War Regiment Coat - off the rack
1770's Waistcoat in Linen
Fall Front Trousers in Linen
Fall Front Knee Breeches - Colored Cotton Canvas
Seamstress:
Many of our guardsmen in SoCal use Sharon Urich as our tailor for custom uniforms. Sharon is based in Michigan and used to make uniforms for the US Army Old Guard.
Name: Sharon Urich
Phone: (313) 330-1808
Email: sewsewsharon1@gmail.com
Website: https://sharonsewsew.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:
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
Inspiration and Leadership: The Color Guard often consisted of the most courageous and skilled soldiers. Their presence inspired others to fight with determination and bravery. The Color Guard's actions set an example for the rest of the troops, encouraging them to follow suit.
Overall, the Color Guard's role extended beyond mere symbolism; they were integral to the battlefield's dynamics and the soldiers' spirit.
| | |
Color Guard Magazine
The January issue of the Color Guard Magazine may be found at SAR Color Guard Magazine.
| |
For questions concerning upcoming events or inquiries into joining the Color Guard please contact:
Brandon Villardi, SAR California Color Guard Commander
Scott Nichols, SAR California Color Guard Adjutant North
Kevin Forrest, SAR California Color Guard Adjutant South
| | |
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.
| | |
"We will remember our compatriot brothers with thanksgiving."
| | | |
Gen George Washington - Charles Robert Kiel - #138370
| | |
Cyber Scams
If you receive an email, text, or voice mail from a purported Officer or Compatriot seeking any kind of financial transaction, consider it a hoax. Phishing messages are very sophisticated and may include the unauthorized use of the SAR logo, a compatriot's name, or a pseudo SAR email address. Stop — Think — Verify !!!
| | |
|
CALL FOR ARTICLES — April 30, 2025 Deadline
Please send news of events and high-resolution digital photos to:
Randy Dhindsa randy@dhindsafamily.com
— RELEASE FORMS —
All photos or other materials that show or name any
minor under the age of 18
must be accompanied by a signed Release Form.
| | |
The California Compatriot is the official newsletter of the California Society, Sons of the American Revolution. Unless explicitly stated, the opinions expressed herein are the opinions of the authors and not necessarily those of the California Society SAR.
Editor: John R Ferris
| | | | |
