George Mason and George Washington Chapters Host Joint Meeting at Mount Vernon Country Club

MOUNT VERNON, VA – September 13, 2025—The George Mason Chapter and the George Washington Chapter of the Virginia Society, Sons of the American Revolution, held a distinguished joint meeting at the Mount Vernon Country Club, bringing together more than seventy compatriots, guests, and community partners for an evening that blended ceremony, fellowship, and historical reflection.

A Gathering of Distinguished Guests

The afternoon opened with a warm welcome and the introduction of several honored guests whose presence underscored the importance of the occasion. Among them were Dr. Weyler, President of the Virginia SAR; Meredith Hopkins, President of the Virginia C.A.R.; and F. Anderson Morse, Executive Director of The Society of the Cincinnati. Leaders from the Kate Waller Barrett and Nelly Custis Chapters of the NSDAR—Regents Meg Kane and Suzann Gallagher—were also in attendance, along with Susan Johnson, Chair of the George Washington Birthday Celebration Committee.

Adding a unique historical dimension to the evening was the appearance of “George Washington,” portrayed by Brian Hilton, whose presence brought a sense of living history to the event. The diversity of guests reflected the strong partnerships among SAR, DAR, C.A.R., and other patriotic organizations, all united in their dedication to preserving and promoting America’s founding ideals.

Recognizing Service and Dedication

A highlight of the evening was the presentation of several awards recognizing exceptional service and commitment. The George Washington Chapter presented its Bronze Good Citizenship Medal to Susan Johnson in appreciation of her leadership and longstanding dedication to the annual George Washington Birthday Celebration.

In a particularly meaningful moment, Suzann Gallagher, Regent of the Nelly Custis NSDAR Chapter, presented the Hannah White Arnett Bronze Medal of Distinction to Scot Bryant, honoring his extraordinary cooperation and service to the DAR. Immediately afterward, Bryant presented his wife, Vickie Bryant, with the National SAR Lydia Darragh Medal, recognizing her many years of steadfast support for the SAR and its mission. The exchange of honors underscored the deep bonds of family, service, and shared purpose that define the SAR community.

Welcoming New Members

Both chapters celebrated the growth of the Society with the induction of new members. For the George Washington Chapter, three members of the Redmon family were included: Col. Larry Redmon accepted new member packets and rosettes on behalf of his two sons, marking a proud moment for the Redmon family and highlighting the SAR’s commitment to honoring lineage and heritage.

The George Mason Chapter also inducted a significant group of new compatriots:

• Vincent Michael Frasure
• Henry Noah Frasure
• Michael Lynn Townsend, II
• Christopher Sterling Gee
• Sterling Wontai Park Gee
• John Wesley Spaid, VI
• John Wesley Spaid, VII
• Ross Uwe Spaid
• Bryan Michael Hawley
• Bruce Anthony Werness  

The addition of new members from both chapters reflects the continued vitality and expanding reach of the SAR in Northern Virginia.

Installation of 2026 Officers

The meeting also marked the formal installation of chapters' officers by Virginia SAR President Weyler for the 2026 term.

The George Mason Chapter SAR introduced its incoming leadership team:

 The George Washington Chapter, Virginia SAR proudly installed its 2026 officers: 

• Scot Bryant – President
• David Harrity – Vice President
• Martin Johnson – Treasurer
• Jonathan Coles – Secretary

The installation ceremony reaffirmed the chapters’ shared commitment to strong leadership, continuity, and the advancement of SAR initiatives in the year ahead.

Reflections from Chapter Presidents

Following the installations, the newly installed presidents offered remarks reflecting on the past year and looking ahead to the future. Ken Morris highlighted the George Mason Chapter’s accomplishments in 2025, noting the chapter’s growth, community engagement, and successful programs. George Washington Chapter President Scot Bryant encouraged members—especially new inductees—to become more actively involved in chapter activities, emphasizing that the strength of the SAR lies in the participation and enthusiasm of its members.

America 250 Keynote Presentation

The keynote address was delivered by “General Washington,” portrayed by Brian Hilton, who offered an immersive America 250 presentation. His remarks transported attendees to December 1775, a pivotal moment in the early days of the Revolutionary War. Through vivid storytelling, he described Washington’s responsibilities, challenges, and decisions as the Continental Army took shape and the struggle for independence intensified. The presentation provided a compelling reminder of the courage, uncertainty, and resolve that defined Washington’s leadership and the nation’s founding.

Closing Ceremonies and a Memorable Finale

The evening concluded with the SAR Recessional, Benediction, and formal adjournment. Attendees then gathered for a group photo with “General Washington,” capturing the spirit of camaraderie and shared purpose that characterized the event.

As guests prepared to depart, they were surprised and delighted by the unexpected arrival of Dr. Douglas Bradburn, President and CEO of George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate. His appearance added a memorable final touch to the evening, reinforcing the close relationship between the SAR and Mount Vernon and offering attendees a unique opportunity to connect with one of the nation’s foremost stewards of Washington’s legacy.

A Night of Fellowship, Reflection, and Purpose

The joint meeting of the George Mason and George Washington Chapters was more than a ceremonial gathering—it was a celebration of shared heritage, a reaffirmation of the SAR’s mission, and a testament to the enduring relevance of the principles that guided the nation’s founding. Through fellowship, recognition, and historical reflection, the evening strengthened the bonds among compatriots and set a confident course for the year ahead.