SAR–DAR Partnership & Engagement

Virginia SAR & DAR: Shared Heritage, Shared Service

The Virginia Society of the Sons of the American Revolution is proud to strengthen and expand our long‑standing partnership with the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR). For generations, SAR and DAR have stood together in honoring Patriot ancestors, preserving our nation’s history, and promoting civic education across the Commonwealth.

Today, this partnership enters a new era. Building on national initiatives from the SAR DAR Liaison Committee, Virginia SAR is launching an expanded effort to welcome DAR‑connected families into the SAR, recognize the exceptional service of DAR members, and deepen collaboration between our societies as we approach America 250.

Commitment | Recognizing Excellence | Pathway for DAR Families | America 250 | Committee | Resources
(last updated April 2026)

A National Initiative with Deep Virginia Roots

The National SAR–DAR Liaison Committee has introduced a series of programs designed to strengthen the relationship between SAR and DAR at every level. These initiatives focus on:

• Supporting DAR members who contribute to SAR programs

• Encouraging SAR membership among sons, grandsons, brothers, and spouses of DAR members

• Recognizing DAR members through new SAR medals and awards

• Expanding communication and cooperation between chapters of both societies

Virginia SAR fully embraces these national goals and is committed to leading by example. With one of the largest SAR memberships in the nation and a vibrant network of DAR chapters across the Commonwealth, Virginia is uniquely positioned to advance this partnership.

 Virginia’s Commitment to Collaboration and Growth

Virginia SAR is expanding its engagement with DAR chapters through a coordinated, statewide effort that reflects the Commonwealth’s historical significance and organizational strength. Our approach includes:

• Proactive outreach to DAR chapters across Virginia

• Joint programming for ceremonies, grave markings, historical commemorations, and America 250 events

• Clear membership pathways for DAR‑connected families

• Support for genealogical research that benefits both societies

• Recognition of DAR members whose service strengthens SAR’s mission

Virginia SAR encourages every chapter to build and maintain strong relationships with their local DAR counterparts. These partnerships enrich both organizations and ensure that our shared heritage is honored with dignity and purpose.

 Recognizing Excellence: SAR Medals for DAR Members

As part of the national initiative, SAR now offers several medals to honor DAR members who demonstrate exceptional commitment to SAR programs. These awards highlight leadership, service, and the deep ties between our organizations.

Virginia SAR will promote and administer these awards through:

• Guidance to chapters on nomination criteria

• Support for preparing and submitting nominations

• Recognition of award recipients at chapter and state events

• Highlighting honorees in Virginia SAR communications

These medals represent a meaningful way to acknowledge the extraordinary contributions DAR members make to our shared mission. Qualifications for each medal are as follows:

1. Abigail Adams Medal may be awarded to a DAR member for two to four approved applications submitted with a DAR Finder Form within the Calendar Year.
2. Deborah Sampson Medal may be awarded to a DAR member for five to seven approved applications submitted with a DAR Finder Form within the Calendar Year.
3. Lucy Knox Medal may be awarded to a DAR member for eight or more approved applications submitted with a DAR Finder Form within the Calendar Year.

Attainment is cumulative and not limited to a calendar year, and the OLC may be awarded for continued attainment.  The 'look back' period and award is effective as of 01 Jan 2025.

Photos of the three medals (L to R Abigail Adams,  Deborah Sampson, Lucy Knox):

Pathways for DAR Families to Join the SAR

Many DAR members have family members who are eligible for SAR membership. Virginia SAR is committed to making the process welcoming, accessible, and supportive. We offer:

• Direct chapter contacts for membership assistance

• Help with genealogical documentation, including use of DAR‑verified lineages

• Opportunities for prospective members to attend SAR meetings and events

• Youth program information for families with children or grandchildren

By working together, SAR and DAR can help more families honor their Patriot ancestors and participate in the work of both societies.

Working Together Toward America 250

As the nation prepares to commemorate the 250th anniversary of American independence, SAR and DAR will play central roles in honoring the Patriot legacy. Virginia SAR invites DAR chapters to collaborate on:

• Commemorative ceremonies

• Grave markings and Patriot recognition events

• Educational programs for schools and communities

• Public history initiatives

• Joint America 250 celebrations

Virginia’s rich Revolutionary history makes the Commonwealth a natural leader in these efforts, and SAR–DAR collaboration will ensure that our commemorations are meaningful, inclusive, and historically grounded.

About the Virginia SAR–DAR Liaison Committee

The Virginia SAR–DAR Liaison Committee supports communication, collaboration, and joint programming between SAR and DAR chapters across the Commonwealth. The SAR–DAR Liaison Committee is responsible for establishing contact with the State Regent of the Virginia Society Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR); supporting NSDAR activities as appropriate; and for recommending the presentation of National Society and Virginia Society awards, as appropriate. The committee assists with:

• Award nominations

• Membership outreach

• America 250 coordination

• Sharing best practices for chapter‑level engagement

Its mission is to ensure that the partnership between our societies continues to grow in strength, visibility, and impact.

Resources

• Virginia DAR (external website)
• DAR Finder Report Form with instructions
• DAR Finder Tri-Fold Pamphlet

Committee

• Chair: Randy Atkins, 2nd Vice President (American Heritage Programs)