Message from the Virginia SAR President for April 2020

Compatriots,

     I pray that this finds each of you and yours well and coping with the current difficulties.  It appears that aggressive social distancing is paying off and the picture, particularly for Virginia has improved over the past few days.  Please continue to follow the guidelines, even as they change, to protect yourself and your loved ones.

     We should all be encouraged by the efforts by fellow compatriots to accomplish what we normally do in ways that fit the current situation.  The Fairfax Resolves are hosting a Patriots Day Ceremony via Zoom on April 19th, the 245th anniversary of Lexington & Concord.  Please consult the "Current Events" Tab calendar on Virginia Dispatches for details.  This will be a great event with participation by President General Manning.  I have mad this a Presidential Initiative, with the expectation that our most distant chapters will participate.

     This year's Presidential Initiatives are undergoing changes in response to the COVID-19 requirements, such as the naming of the Patriots Day ceremony a Presidential Initiative.  Another addition to the Presidential Initiatives is the Grave Marking at Shockoe Hill Cemetery during the 2020 Congress - yes, we are still preparing to host the Congress.  That ceremony will be a big event during Congress and your participation will help us make this a truly memorable event for compatriots from across the country, even around the world.

     I would also like to ask your help with another Presidential Initiative - increased funding for the youth awards programs through donations to the Mark Brennan, Jr. Fund.  Each dollar you contribute will be credited to you for a commission or promotion in the Virginia SAR First Virginia Regiment and to your chapter for awards at next year's Annual Meeting.  There is a match of $1 for every $4 that you contribute up to a limit of $3000 matching dollars.  The matching dollars will also count toward your First Virginia ran and your chapter's standing for state awards.  Even small checks can help us reach our goal of $15,000.  Make your check our to "VASSAR", note it is to the Brennan, Jr. Fund, and mail to our Treasurer.  Help us reward our patriotic youth while we also raise our public profile.

     Be safe, be healthy, and remember our patriot ancestors.

Your Servant,
Bill
Bill Schwetke
President, Virginia SAR