Celebrating Growth Since Independence Day: Welcoming New Members and Honoring Supplemental Achievements

RICHMOND, VA — January 1, 2026 — Since July 4, 2025, the Virginia Society Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) has experienced a remarkable surge in membership activity. We proudly recognize the addition of 127 new compatriots and the approval of 65 supplemental applications from 27 chapters, bringing our grand total to 192 new and supplemental recognitions.

This growth reflects not only the expanding interest in honoring Revolutionary War ancestors but also the commitment of existing members to deepen their genealogical connections.

Honoring Veterans: Virginia SAR Chapters Unite Across the Commonwealth

Across the Commonwealth of Virginia, chapters of the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) came together in a powerful display of patriotism and remembrance to honor America’s veterans. From historic estates to small-town cemeteries, their presence was felt in ceremonies, parades, and memorial dedications that paid tribute to those who served.

Mount Vernon Tribute by George Washington Chapter

The George Washington Chapter hosted its annual Veterans Day commemoration at George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate and Gardens. A solemn wreath-laying ceremony honored both General George Washington and Mrs. Martha Washington. The event was co-sponsored by the Kate Waller Barrett Chapter NSDAR and featured participation from the Virginia SAR Color Guard and Scouting America Troop 113 of Alexandria. Distinguished guests included National SAR President General Michael Elston, past President General Joe Dooley, and chapter president Scot Bryant.  Chapter treasurer David Harrity served as master of ceremonies.

Uncasville, CT (July 15, 2025) — During a stirring awards ceremony held at the Mohegan Sun Earth Conference Center, the Virginia Society of the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) emerged as a dominant force at the 135th Annual Congress, earning accolades across nearly every category of recognition. From youth education to chapter excellence, Virginia SAR and its chapters demonstrated an unwavering commitment to patriotism, historical preservation, and community engagement.

Chapter and Individual Honors

• General William Campbell Chapter SAR received the Ohanesian History Presentation Award for chapters with 10–49 members.
• Brian Bayliss of the Colonel James Wood II Chapter earned an Honorable Mention in the Thomas J. Bond, Jr. Memorial Photography Award.
• Chris Yohn, editor of the Liberty Gazette, was honored with an Honorable Mention in the Carl F. Bessent Award for outstanding chapter newsletters.
• National Meritorious Service Medal (Gold): Jeff Thomas
  
• National Roger Sherman Commendation Medal (Gold): Ernie Coggins, Peter Davenport, Jeff Thomas
  
• National Henry Knox Achievement Medal (Gold): Biff Greaf, Scott Walker, Anita Bonner (wife of Kenneth Bonner)
  
• Bronze Liberty Medals were awarded to eight Compatriots for recruiting 10+ new members, including William F. Crain, William M. Haskins, Jr. (2), Kenneth L. Hawkins (2), Bruce A. Taylor, Barry F. Schwoerer, Kenneth E. Morris, and Richard M. Sherman.

Youth & Education Impact

Virginia SAR earned a Participation Streamer for its involvement in five national youth contests: