LEESBURG, VA — March 14 at the River Creek Club in Leesburg brought together a true who’s‑who of Loudoun County—captains of industry, elected and appointed officials, and community leaders—for a celebration of America’s 250th birthday. The event was the vision of Mrs. Aparna Madireddi, a board member of Virginia Humanities, who served as the primary organizer. At her request, the program opened with a Color Guard representing both “Old Patriots” and “Modern Patriots.”

The Old Patriots were members of the Sergeant Major John Champe (SMJC) Chapter, dressed in Revolutionary War attire. The Modern Patriots were members of VFW Post 1177 in Leesburg, representing 21st‑century veterans. SMJC Compatriot Richard Ryan, who also serves with the American Legion Leonard W. Kidd Memorial Post, coordinated closely with both the SMJC Chapter and VFW Post 1177 to assemble this unique joint Color Guard.

Before an audience of approximately 250 attendees, the colors were presented by the following SMJC Compatriots:

• Ken Bonner, Color Guard Commander, wearing a Continental regimental uniform

• Barry Schwoerer, in regimental uniform and carrying a replica musket

• Warner Workman, dressed as a Virginia rifleman in a hunting shirt and carrying a replica rifle

Representing VFW Post 1177 were:

• Jason Cound, carrying the National Colors

• Elise Woodworth, carrying the Flag of the Commonwealth of Virginia and representing women serving in combat