Honoring George Washington on His 294th Birthday at Mount Vernon

MOUNT VERNON, VA—Members of the George Washington Chapter gathered at Mount Vernon today to honor the 294th birthday of our nation’s first president with a wreath‑laying ceremony at Washington’s Tomb. The program was led with distinction by our chapter Vice President and ceremony emcee, David Harrity, who guided the event with reverence and historical pride.

We were honored to welcome several distinguished guests. Virginia SAR President Darrin M. Schmidt brought greetings on behalf of the Virginia Society, and Past National SAR President Joseph Dooley, dressed in his impressive Washington’s Life Guard attire, served as the honor guard—adding a powerful historical presence to the ceremony.

Don Francisco offered a heartfelt invocation and then filled the crisp morning air with a stirring rendition of the National Anthem on flute, creating a moment that resonated deeply with all in attendance.

We were also pleased to have Andrew Mills, President of the Colonel William Grayson Chapter, join us for this special occasion.

Following the ceremony, chapter members continued their service by hosting a public outreach table in the Mount Vernon auditorium lobby, sharing the mission of the SAR with visitors from across the country.

Meanwhile, chapter compatriot Scott Walker, Manager‑at‑Large, had the distinct honor of leading the Pledge of Allegiance for 78 of America’s newest citizens, representing 32 countries, during a naturalization ceremony conducted by the U.S. Customs and Immigration Service at Mount Vernon. It was a powerful reminder of the enduring legacy of the ideals Washington helped establish.

A meaningful day of remembrance, service, and celebration—befitting the Father of Our Country.