A Commonwealth Remembers: Virginia SAR Honors Memorial Day 2026 Across the Nation and the Old Dominion

Memorial Day 2026 unfolded across Virginia and the nation with a sense of unity that felt both solemn and uplifting. From the broad avenues of Washington, D.C., to the quiet cemeteries and small‑town streets of the Commonwealth, compatriots of the Virginia Society, Sons of the American Revolution, came together to honor the men and women who gave their lives in service to the United States.

What emerged was a sweeping, statewide tribute—one that reflected not only remembrance, but the living legacy of the patriots who first secured America’s freedom.

On May 8th, the Fort Harrison Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution presented the SAR Bronze ROTC Medal to Cadet Dorian Jackson of the Harrisonburg High School “Blue Streak” Battalion. This award recognizes exceptional cadets in secondary school JROTC programs who embody the qualities of leadership, character, and service that defined the citizen‑soldiers of the American Revolution.

The Bronze ROTC Medal is one of the SAR’s most meaningful youth recognition awards. It honors cadets who demonstrate outstanding leadership potential, strong military bearing, academic excellence, and a commitment to the principles of patriotism and civic responsibility. Its purpose is to encourage the same spirit of readiness and service exemplified by the Minutemen who stood at Lexington and Concord.

Charles E. Driscoll, MD, the Surgeon General, Virginia SAR has published the following articles:

Medical Tips - Suicide Prevention: Be The One

Surgeon General's War Report: Spring 1776 - Surgeon General’s War Report ~ The Wounds of Benedict Arnold

Charles E. Driscoll, MD, the Surgeon General, Virginia SAR has published the following articles:

Medical Tips - Listen Up Grandpa! - Your Grandchildren Need Your Help

LEESBURG, Va., April 3, 2026 — Leesburg and Loudoun County officials on March 29 joined the Sgt. Maj. John Champe Chapter SAR, VFW Post 1177 of Leesburg, and American Legion Leonard W. Kidd Memorial Post 2001 of Ashburn to welcome home and honor Veterans of the Vietnam War. Virginia SAR President Darrin Schmidt attended, offered remarks, and presented the guest speaker with an SAR 250th Anniversary Challenge Coin.

Loudoun County Board of Supervisors Chair‑at‑Large Phyllis Randall delivered remarks and reflected on the service of her father, a Vietnam Veteran who completed two tours. Loudoun County Sheriff Mike Chapman and Leesburg Mayor Kelly Burk also addressed the gathering.

RICHMOND, Va., April 3, 2026 — The Virginia Society of the Sons of the American Revolution (Virginia SAR) announced an expanded statewide initiative to strengthen collaboration with the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), reinforcing a long‑standing partnership rooted in shared heritage, patriotic service, and preparations for America’s 250th anniversary.

The initiative builds on national efforts led by the SAR DAR Liaison Committee and reflects Virginia’s commitment to welcoming DAR‑connected families into the SAR, recognizing the contributions of DAR members, and expanding joint programming across the Commonwealth. With one of the nation’s largest SAR memberships and a vibrant network of DAR chapters, Virginia is positioned to lead in advancing this partnership.

HARRISONBURG, Va. — On March 17th, the Fort Harrison Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution welcomed Compatriot Chris Yohn for a fascinating presentation to a full house, drawn from his book Liberty’s Land. The book recounts the true story of the American Revolution on the West Branch of the Susquehanna River. The men, women and children who settled the valley made remarkable contributions to American independence and their real-life experiences are more compelling than anything that could have been imagined.

The narrative spans the full course of the conflict as local settlers defend their valley and march with the Continental Army through the war’s major events. More than a simple war chronicle, the story unfolds through layers of espionage, conspiracy, and murder.

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.

Virginia SAR Membership Growth Accelerates in 2026 as America 250 Approaches

RICHMOND, VA - The Virginia Society, Sons of the American Revolution, is experiencing a surge of membership activity as the Commonwealth prepares to commemorate the 250th Anniversary of American Independence. Across the state, chapters are welcoming new compatriots and documenting additional Patriot ancestors at a pace that reflects both renewed public interest and the dedication of chapter registrars, genealogists, and volunteers.

Recent activity includes 40 new member applications, 21 supplemental applications, and 1 memorial application, documenting a total of 62 Patriot ancestors.

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.

A City Celebrates: Thousands Turn Out for the 2026 George Washington Birthday Parade

Alexandria, Virginia—The streets of Old Town came alive on Saturday, February 14, as more than 2,000 spectators lined the parade route to celebrate the 294th birthday of General George Washington. Under crisp winter skies and a festive spirit that warmed the entire city, the annual George Washington Birthday Celebration Parade became a showcase of patriotism, community pride, and the enduring legacy of America’s founding generation. Among the most visible participants were the compatriots, daughters, children, and guests of the Sons and Daughters of the American Revolution, whose presence added both color and historical resonance to the day.

This year’s parade was made especially memorable by the participation of SAR President General Michael J. Elston, Esq., and DAR President General Ginnie Sebastian Storage, who served together as co‑grand marshals. Their leadership and partnership symbolized the unity of purpose shared by the SAR and DAR as America approaches its Semiquincentennial. Their presence drew warm applause from the crowds and set a tone of celebration rooted in service, remembrance, and national pride.

Honoring the Unknown: Virginia SAR, Virginia DAR, and C.A.R. Gather in Alexandria for the February 14 Commemoration

Alexandria, Virginia — On Saturday, February 14, more than one hundred compatriots, daughters, children, and guests gathered at the historic Old Presbyterian Meeting House burial ground to honor the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier of the American Revolution. Hosted jointly by the George Washington Chapter, Virginia SAR, and the Kate Waller Barrett Chapter, NSDAR, the ceremony unfolded on a bright afternoon where sunshine glinted off patches of melting snow, creating a serene and reverent setting for remembrance.

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier of the American Revolution stands as a solemn tribute to the unnamed patriot whose sacrifice represents the countless men and women who fought for American independence. This year’s commemoration brought together national, state, and local leaders from SAR, DAR, and C.A.R., reaffirming a shared commitment to honoring Revolutionary War patriots.

Charles E. Driscoll, MD, the Surgeon General, Virginia SAR has published the following articles:

Medical Tips - I Called the Urologist and the Receptionist Said "Can You Please Hold?"

Surgeon General's War Report: 1783 - Surgeon General’s War Report ~ Barnabas Binney’s Unusual Discovery

250th Anniversary of the Burning of Norfolk Commemoration Held Virtually

On January 31, 2026, members of the Sons of the American Revolution, Daughters of the American Revolution, and Children of the American Revolution gathered online to commemorate the 250th Anniversary of the Burning of Norfolk, one of the earliest and most consequential turning points in America’s fight for independence. Originally planned as an outdoor ceremony in Norfolk, the event shifted indoors and onto Zoom due to cold and inclement weather. The full program is available for viewing at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MNAf3zxq5y4

Despite the change in format, the commemoration retained its full historical depth and collaborative spirit. The event was part of the ongoing Road to Revolution series and was co‑hosted by the Norfolk Chapter SAR, the Great Bridge Chapter, NSDAR, and the Old Cannonball Society, N.S.C.A.R. Together, these three organizations highlighted the significance of the January 1, 1776 destruction of Norfolk—a moment when Loyalist resistance collapsed, Patriot resolve strengthened, and Virginia’s path toward independence accelerated.

MARTINSVILLE, VA —The Colonel George Waller Chapter of the Virginia Sons of the American Revolution (Virginia SAR) will start the new year with a 2026 Chapter Kickoff Dinner on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at 6:00 P.M., at Hugo’s Restaurant & Sports Bar in Uptown Martinsville.

Henry County Sheriff Wayne Davis (photo right) will be the guest speaker who will share insights into current developments in local law enforcement and discuss the evolution of the recently adopted 1777 Sheriff’s Department uniform patch which honors the County’s 249-year history.

During the dinner, the chapter will present Sheriff Davis with the Law Enforcement Commendation Medal in recognition of his distinctive service and devotion in the field of law enforcement and public safety. Also, Scott Norman will receive the Bronze Good Citizenship Medal in recognition of his noteworthy community achievements. A brief report from the Annual Convention of the Virginia Society of the Sons of the American Revolution
will be presented, sharing any awards received.

Join the Dan River Chapter for the 2026 Crossing of the Dan Commemoration

Each February, the Sons of the American Revolution gather to honor one of the most remarkable strategic achievements of the Southern Campaign: the Crossing of the Dan. On February 14, 1781, General Nathanael Greene’s masterful retreat across the icy Dan River preserved the Continental Army in the South and set the stage for the victories that ultimately secured American independence.

The Dan River Chapter SAR and the Crossing of the Dan Committee warmly invite all SAR compatriots, DAR members, families, guests, and community supporters to attend this year’s commemoration and related events. The 2026 observance promises to be a meaningful tribute to the patriot forces whose endurance and determination changed the course of the war.

HARRISONBURG, Va. — January 7, 2026 — The Fort Harrison Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution participated in a Naturalization Ceremony at the United States District Court, Western District of Virginia. With the Honorable Joel C. Hoppe, United States Magistrate Judge, presiding, thirty‑nine applicants from twenty‑four countries and five continents became the newest citizens of the United States of America. Many recounted the sacrifices and hardships they endured on their long journey to this momentous day.

After taking the Oath of Allegiance, each new citizen was given the opportunity to share their personal story—many describing years of waiting, experiences of political persecution, and the hope that carried them forward. Although hesitant at first, once the first individual spoke, a floodgate of emotion opened. Several described their pursuit of a better life for themselves and their families, and all expressed that this day marked one of the proudest moments of their lives. They emphasized that they did not take the responsibilities of American citizenship lightly.

Join the Parade! Virginia SAR Invited to March in the 2026 George Washington Birthday Parade

Saturday, February 14, 2026 – Old Town Alexandria, Virginia

Calendar Event Link: Virginia SAR Calendar – George Washington Birthday Parade

Virginia SAR Virtual Workshops Schedule (Updated 28 Jan)

The Virginia Society, Sons of the American Revolution (Virginia SAR) training workshop format is changing! In order to provide beneficial information at a time that will have the best impact to chapters, committees, and members,  workshops will be conducted periodically throughout the year. Workshops will continue to be virtual so they can reach anyone interested in joining.