James Monroe's 259th Birthday Celebration Ceremony

28 Apr 2017         Hollywood Cemetery, Richmond, VA

photos by Thomas Nelson Past President Bruce Meyer

     14 compatriots from 8 chapters participated in James Monroe's 259th Birthday Celebration Ceremony today at his tomb in Hollywood Cemetery, overlooking the James River in Richmond.  3rd Vice President Bill Schwetke led the Virginia Society representatives and presented the Virginia SAR wreath.  Wreaths were also presented by the following chapters: Colonel Fielding Lewis, Colonel William Grayson, Culpeper Minutemen, James Monroe, Richard Henry Lee, Richmond, Thomas Nelson, Jr, and Williamsburg.
     The program began with Brigadier General David Wilson, Army Chief of Ordnance, representing President Trump in placing a wreath at Monroe's tomb.  General Wilson then delivered remarks.  The colors were presented by the U.S. Army Ordnance School Honor Guard.
     The keynote speaker was former Governor of Virginia James S. Gilmore, III.  Richmond Chapter compatriot Peter Broadbent acted as master of ceremonies for the wreath laying.
     The recently restored cage around James Monroe's tomb look splendid in it's restored original color.

Virginia Society compatriots in front of the restored tomb.