Updates or corrections to the published schedule should be submitted to the VASSAR Color Guard Commander.

Guardsmen should evaluate their ability to participate in physically stressful conditions.  Event Color Guard Commanders will conduct a safety walk-through of the venue before the event commences and raise safety-related issues (e.g., heat index, trip hazards, etc.) with the event coordinator for resolution and mitigation.  ALL firelocks brought to the event will be safety-checked before the event commences -- without exception.  Firelocks that do not pass or have not been safety-checked will not be permitted at the event site.

In case of a VASSAR-related accident/incident, the VASSAR Accident/Incident Report form (clickable link updated February 2023) is also provided in the Resource Section (see pull down tab).  Event coordinators are strongly encouraged to have a blank paper copy available. 

Insurance:  VASSAR insurance coverage does not extend to non-VASSAR members, such as DAR, C.A.R., or re-enactors. Event coordinators should critically review any non-VASSAR individual participation in our color guards (especially in a black powder firing event) if the participating individual's organization is not covered by an insurance company.  If in doubt, contact the VASSAR Insurance Advisor, Compatriot Richard Rankin.  As of December 2023, VASSAR has exchanged Certificates of Insurance (COI) with the following State SAR Societies: GA, KY, NC, NH, NJ, PA, SC, TN, and WVA.  It also holds COIs from the 1st and 7th VA Regiments (reenactors).  It should be noted that not every SAR State Society currently has liability insurance.

Color Guard Archives may be accessed at Archives by year

The 2024 schedule

April 27th, 2024, Saturday (12:00 pm) – Commemoration of President James Monroe’s Birthday, Middletown, VA
Event Level: Chapter
Host Chapter: Col. James Wood II Chapter VASSAR / Dale Corey.
Location: Wayside Inn, 7783 Main St., Middletown, VA.  
Firing Event: Yes
Event Color Guard Commander: Corey.
Details: Wreaths and Chapter flags presented.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees:  Buck, Carrigan, Christensen, Cordes, Corey, Daniel, A.Phillips.

April 27th, 2024, Saturday (1:00 pm) - Commemoration of General Joseph Martin, Martinsville, VA
Event Level: Chapter
Host/POC: Col. George Waller Chapter Vassar / Jarred Marlowe.
Location: Historic Courthouse, 1 East Main Street, Martinsville, VA.
Firing Event: No
Event Color Guard Commander: TBA.
Details: Guard muster at the historic Courthouse no later than 12:15 pm.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees:

April 27th, 2024, Saturday (1:00 pm) – Color Guard Workshop, Middletown, VA
Event Level: Chapter (Regional Training)
Host Chapter: Co. James Wood II Chapter VASSAR / Dale Corey.
Location: Wayside Inn, 7783 Main St., Middletown, VA.  
Firing Event: Yes
Event Color Guard Commander: Corey.
Details: Will discuss flag etiquette and drill movements.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees:  Buck,Carrigan, Christensen, Cordes, Corey, Cridge, Daniel, A.Phillips.

April 28th, 2024, Sunday (11:00 am) - 266th Birthday of President James Monroe (Hollywood Cemetery), Richmond, VA
Event Level: Historic
Host/POC: James Monroe Memorial Foundation / Peter Broadbent.
Details: Wreath Laying ceremony at James Monroe's tomb in Hollywood Cemetery. The Color Guard will be provided by the "Heroes of '76," an Auxiliary of the National Sojourners.  The event organizer was informed that the US Army will no longer provide a Color Guard to commemorate this event.

Draft program (click here): Monroe Program

May 1st, 2024, Wednesday (6:00 pm) – Color Guard support to VFW, Winchester, VA
Event Level: Chapter
Host/POC: Col. James Wood II Chapter VASSAR / Dale Corey (sponsoring organization is VFW Post 2123).
Location: Shenandoah University Wilkins Athletic and Event Center, 1155 Ralph Schockley Dr., Winchester, VA.
Firing event: No
Event Color Guard Commander: B.Schwoerer.
Details: VFW Post 2123 has asked VASSAR to present and post the colors at a Veterans Appreciation Dinner held at 6:00 p.m. at the Shenandoah University Field House. We have done this for the past couple of years. The Color Guard will present three flags: the US, VA, and 250th Anniversary. The CG will have to navigate the steps up to the stage and, after honors, navigate down, so flag harnesses will be provided for the event. The POW/MIA flag will be posted by Jameson.  
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees: Carrigan, Christensen, Corey, M.Crain, Daniel, Jameson, A.Phillips, M.Robinson, B.Schwoerer, Tyler, Wilson.

Event Level: Chapter
Host/POC: Richmond Chapter VASSAR / Chris Yohn at [email protected]
Location: 12602 Harrison Landing Rd., Charles City, VA.
Firing Event: Yes
Event Color Guard Commander: Dunaway
Heat Index:
Details:Historic marker dedication. This will be a wreath laying event with invitations being sent statewide and to SAR, DAR, Founders and Patriots, etc. It will largely follow the grave marking program agenda.The marker will commemorate this forgotten shipyard of the Revolution, the Berkeley Plantation Shipyard, (not the Chickahominy Shipyard). While less well known, the Berkeley Shipyard constructed 18 warships for the Patriot cause at the site of Berkeley Plantation. It is located at the home of a Founding Father and signer of the Declaration of Independence, Benjamin Harrison V. This military production and Harrison's patriotic efforts made Berkeley an enemy target. Benedict Arnold destroyed it in his 1781 raid up the James to Richmond. Since Berkeley is a popular tourist destination, this will be a high-profile and lasting marker for the SAR and its mission and generate interest in America 250 activities with the general public. Click here to register: Registration
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees: Bonner, Carrigan, Corey, Daniel, Doucette, Dunaway, Lynch, Miller, Morris, Schmidt.

May 11th, 2024, Saturday (10:00 am) - America's First Frontier (formerly the Raid at Martin's Station), Ewing, VA
Event Level: National
Host/POC: Martin's Station Chapter VASSAR / Tom Coker at [email protected]
Location: Wilderness State Park, 8051 Wilderness Road Trail, Ewing, VA.
Firing Event: Yes
Event Color Guard Commander: TBA.
Heat Index:
Details: Participants desiring to present a wreath must deliver it to the appropriate area near the monument no later than 9:30 a.m. on May 11th.  Compatriots wearing period, Militia, or Continental Line dress are limited to the location in front of the Information Center and the SAR Monument. After the wreath-laying ceremony, the above are restricted to areas in front of the Information Center to comply with WRSP rules. Parking fees will be waived only for Compatriots wearing period attire.  Compatriots wearing Continental uniforms (not militia) will be asked to leave the Fort area immediately after the wreath-laying ceremony to preserve the 1775 frontier impression.  Wreaths may be dedicated to a specific Organization, an individual patriot, or anything deemed appropriate.  Registration, click here: Registration. Overall schedule, click here: Martin's Station Event
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees: Coker, Hamilton, B.Schwetke, D.Schwetke.

May 11th, 2024, Saturday (10:00 am-4:00 pm) - Fort Loudoun Day, Winchester, VA
Event Level: Chapter
Host/POC: French & Indian War Foundation, fiwf.org / VASSAR POC Dale Corey.
Location: Fort Loudoun, 419 N. Loudoun St., Winchester, VA
Firing Event: TBA (subject to available VASSAR guardsmen)
Event Color Guard Commander: TBA.
Heat Index:
Details: Flag raising will be conducted at noon with a musket salute.  "Col. James Wood" founder of Winchester will be present.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees: Bonner, Corey.

May 18th, 2024, Saturday (11:00 am) – Regional Color Guard Workshop, Gloucester, VA
Event Level: Chapter (Regional Training)
Host/POC: Williamsburg Chapter VASSAR / Gary Dunaway at [email protected] (757) 303-3673.
Location: Gloucester Museum of History, 6539 Main St., Gloucester, VA.
Firing Event: Yes
Event Color Guard Commander: Dunaway
Details: This Color Guard workshop offers training for VASSAR Color Guardsmen to safely handle and fire black powder with the aim of recertification.  Instructors muster at 10:30 am.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees: Doucette,Dunaway, Hamilton, Lynch, Melhuish, Miller, Packett, Tugman, Westenberger.

INFORMATION: May 20th, 2024, Monday - Armed Forces Day Celebrations
Event Level: National

First observed on May 20, 1950, the day was created on August 31, 1949, to honor Americans serving in the five U.S. military branches – the U.S. Army, U.S. Navy, U.S. Marine Corps, U.S. Air Force, and U.S. Coast Guard – following the consolidation of the military services in the U.S. Department of Defense. It was intended to replace the separate Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard Days, but the separate days are still observed, especially within the respective services.

May 25th, 2024, Saturday (10:30 am) – Commemoration of the Battle of Waxhaws (Buford’s Massacre), Buford, SC
Event Level: National
Host/POC: Francis Marion Chapter SCSSAR / Greg Ohanesian.
Location: Buford Battleground, 262, Rocky River Rd., Lancaster, SC.
Firing Event: Yes
Virginia Color Guard Commander: Bill Schwetke.
Heat Index:
Details: This is a national-level event sponsored by the General Francis Marion Chapter, SCSSAR.  The Battle of Waxhaws (also known as Buford's massacre) took place during the American Revolutionary War on May 29, 1780, near Lancaster, South Carolina, between a Continental Army force led by Abraham Buford and a mainly Loyalist force led by British officer Banastre Tarleton. Buford refused an initial demand to surrender, but when Tarleton's cavalry attacked his men, many threw down their arms to surrender. Buford attempted to surrender. However, the British commanding officer Tarleton was shot at during the truce, causing his horse to fall and trap him. Loyalists and British troops were outraged at the breaking of the truce in this manner and proceeded to fall on the rebels.  While Tarleton was trapped under his dead horse, men continued killing the Continental soldiers, including those not resisting. A little quarter was given to the patriots/rebels. Of the 400 or so Continentals, 113 were killed with sabers, 150 so severely injured they could not be moved, and the British and Loyalists took 53 prisoners. "Tarleton's quarter" became a common expression for refusing to take prisoners. In some subsequent battles in the Carolinas, few of the defeated were taken alive by either side. This 'Battle of Waxhaws’ became the subject of an intensive propaganda campaign by the Continental Army to bolster recruitment and incite resentment against the British. Equally plausible accounts of the battle by soldiers from both sides describe Tarleton as having no part in ordering a massacre as he had been trapped under his horse. When freed, he immediately ordered medical treatment of American prisoners and the wounded.  Video here:  Buford's Massacre
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees: Bonner, Doucette, Lynch, Melhuish, Reynolds, B.Schwetke.

May 25th, 2024, Saturday (9:00 am - 3:00 pm) – 42nd Plumb Alley Day, Abingdon, VA
Event Level: Chapter
Host/POC: Gen. William Campbell Chapter VASSAR / John Gullion.
Location: Plumb Alley, Abingdon, VA.
Firing Event: No
Event Color Guard Commander: TBA.
Heat Index:
Details: Plumb Alley Day is the largest fundraiser for the Kiwanis Club of Abingdon, and every nickel raised is donated to kids' groups in our area. Some 6,000 - 8,000 residents and visitors are expected on Abingdon’s Plumb Alley on Saturday, May 25, when the Kiwanis Club holds its Annual Plumb Alley Day. The festival is rated one of the largest one-day events in the Southeast, runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees:

May 25th, 2024, Saturday (3:00 pm) - Patriot Grave Marking for James Campbell, Rose Hill, VA
Event Level: Chapter
Host/POC: Martin’s Station Chapter VASSAR / Donald Campbell at [email protected].
Location: Old Campbell Cemetery of Rose Hill, 2062 Giles Hollow Rd., Rose Hill, VA
Firing event: No
Event Color Guard Commander: TBA
Heat Index:
Details: Join the Martin's Station Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution who is proudly hosting a grave marking ceremony in honor of James Campbell, a Patriot of the American Revolution. This event will take place on Saturday, May 25, 2024, at 3 pm in the historic Old Campbell Cemetery in Rose Hill, VA. Paying homage to a hero of our nation's founding, the ceremony promises to be a meaningful and respectful tribute to James Campbell's enduring legacy.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees:

Event Level: National

Memorial Day is a federal holiday observed annually on the last Monday in May. It honors those who died serving in the United States military. In the United States, Memorial Day weekend starts the summer season, and Labor Day weekend ends the summer. Most government and business offices will be closed on this Day. Armed Forces Day honors those currently serving in the military, and Veterans Day honors men and women who have previously served in the United States armed forces.
The National Moment of Remembrance: On May 3, 2000, a “National Moment of  Remembrance” was established. This is observed at 3 pm local time on Memorial Day to pause and remember those who died in defense of our Nation. The first national observance of Memorial Day occurred on May 30, 1868. Then known as Decoration Day, the holiday was proclaimed by Major General John A. Logan of the Grand Army of the Republic to honor the Union soldiers who had died in the Civil War.

May 27th, 2024, Monday (10:00 am) - Memorial Day Commemoration, Colonial Williamsburg, VA
Event Level: National
Host/POC:  Colonial Williamsburg & Williamsburg Chapter / John Lynch.
Location: In front of the Governor's Palace, Colonial Williamsburg.
Firing Event: Yes (fired by Colonial Williamsburg Reenactors)
Event Color Guard Commander: TBA.
Heat Index:
Details: Color Guard muster at 9 am (pending approval, in CW employee parking lot near the Governor's palace.) Plan for a few minutes of drill in the parking lot to refresh skills. This event is a popular one. It is also important because the Color Guard can loiter in the area after the ceremony and presents an excellent opportunity to interact with the public educationally. This year, we will likely be able to post the colors in ground stakes and march off.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees: Dunaway.

May 27th, 2024, Monday (10:00 am) - Memorial Day Observance, Leesburg, VA
Event Level: National
Host/POC: Sgt. Maj. John Champe Chapter VASSAR / B.Schwoerer.
Location: Loudoun County Courthouse, 18 E. Market St., Leesburg, VA
Firing Event: No
Event Color Guard Commander: TBA.
Heat Index:
Details: Conducted at the historic Loudoun County Courthouse, this ceremony is hosted by Leesburg Mayor Kelly Burk and includes the reverent laying of wreaths at several war memorials on the courthouse grounds. The Sgt Maj John Champe Chapter will lead the presentation of society wreaths at the ‘Spirit of Loudoun’ statue, commemorating Loudoun Counties’ military contributions to the War for Independence. After this observance, society participants at the ‘Spirit of Loudoun’ statue are invited to place flags on the graves of Loudoun County veterans at the Old Stone Methodist Church and Mount Zion Cemeteries nearby.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees: Bonner.

May 27th, 2024, Monday (10:00 am) - Memorial Day Parade, Norfolk, VA
Event Level: National
Host/POC: Larchmont-Edgewater Civic League / Crockett. Norfolk Chapter VASSAR / John Hall.
Location: Larchmont, Norfolk, VA.
Firing Event: No
Event Color Guard Commander: Melhuish.
Heat Index:
Details: This event marks the second Memorial Day Parade in Norfolk and includes the Norfolk Chapter VASSAR, and the Great Bridge Chapter, NSDAR as participants.  The Honorable Kenneth Alexander, Mayor of Norfolk, will be the Grand Marshal.  It concludes at Larchmont United Methodist Church with a wreath laying, playing of Taps by a US Navy bugler, and a bagpipe Lament. Free hot dogs and ice cream will be offered.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees: Melhuish.

May 27th, 2024, Monday (11:00 am) - Memorial Day Commemoration, Halifax, VA
Event Level: National
Host/POC: Dan River Chapter VASSAR / Gary Hall.
Location: Halifax County War Memorial, Halifax, VA.
Firing Event: No
Event Color Guard Commander: Hall.
Heat Index:
Details: TBA.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees: Hall.

May 27th, 2024, Monday (11:00 am) - Memorial Day Commemoration, Veterans Park, Abingdon, VA
Event Level: National
Host/POC: Gen. William Campbell Chapter VASSAR / John Gullion.
Location: Veterans Memorial Park, Lt. Billy Webb Ave., Abingdon, VA.
Firing Event: Yes
Event Color Guard Commander: Gullion.
Heat Index:
Details: Color Guard muster at 10 am.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees: Gullion.

May 27th, 2024, Monday (11:00 am) – Memorial Day Commemoration, Winchester, VA
Event Level: National
Host/POC: Col. James Wood II Chapter VASSAR and the American Red Cross / Dale Corey.
Location: Winchester National Cemetery, 401 National Ave., VA.
Firing Event: Yes
Event Color Guard Commander: Corey.
Heat Index:
Details: Color Guard muster no later than 10:15 am.  A  musket salute will be fired after the wreath presentation.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees: Cordes,Corey, Daniel, A.Phillips,

May 27th, 2024, Monday (11:00 am) - Memorial Day Commemoration, Culpeper, VA
Event Level: National
Host/POC: VFW / Keith Price.  Supported by Culpeper Minutemen Chapter VASSAR / Charles Jameson.
Location: Culpeper National Cemetery, 305 U.S. Ave., Culpeper, VA.
Firing Event: No
Event Color Guard Commander: TBA.
Heat Index:
Details: Color Guard muster no later than 10:15 am.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees: Jameson.

May 27th, 2024, Monday (1:00 pm) - Memorial Day Commemoration, Middletown, VA
Event Level: National
Host/POC: Col. James Wood II Chapter VASSAR / Dale Corey.
Location: Middletown Veterans Memorial, 8050 Main St., Middletown, VA.
Firing Event: Yes (fired by the VFW unit)
Event Color Guard Commander: TBA.
Heat Index:
Details: TBA.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees: Corey, Cordes, Daniel, A.Phillips.

May 29th, 2023, Wednesday (1:00 pm) - Wreath Laying at Patrick Henry's Gravesite, Red Hill Plantation, Brookneal, VA
Event Level: Chapter
Host/POC:  Patrick Henry Chapter, Virginia SAR / Mark Day.
Location:  Patrick Henry's Red Hill, 1250 Red Hill Road, Brookneal, VA.
Firing Event: Yes
Event Color Guard Commander: Day.
Heat Index:
Details: Over the past two years, ceremonies have been conducted first by the State and then by the Chapter to honor the May 29, 1736, birthday of Patrick Henry at Red Hill. These programs were conducted at the grave site. State President Thomas had designated the 2021 event as one of his Presidential Initiatives. DAR and C.A.R. participation will also be encouraged. The Red Hill National Memorial will provide refreshments for the participants and attendees.
Inscribed on Patrick Henry's tomb: "His fame his best epitaph."
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees: Day.

June 1st, 2024, Saturday (1:00 pm) – Commemoration of Wayne's Crossing, Leesburg, VA
Event Level: State
Host/POC: Co-Hosted by Sgt Maj John Champe and Fairfax Resolves Chapters VASSAR / Barry Schwoerer.
Location: Spirit of Loudoun Revolutionary War Memorial, Loudoun County Courthouse, 18 E Market Street, Leesburg, VA.
Firing Event: No
Event Color Guard Commander: TBA.
Heat Index:
Details: This event commemorates the crossing of the Potomac River by General Anthony Wayne’s army on May 31, 1781. The army passed through Leesburg on June 3, 1781, enroute to General Lafayette’s Army. Parking is available near the Loudoun Museum. 16 Loudoun Street SW, Leesburg, VA,
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees: Bonner.

June 2nd, 2024, Sunday (2:00 pm) - Roadside Marker Dedication, Amelia Court House, VA
Event Level: Chapter
Host/POC: Richmond Chapter VASSAR / Phillip Barnard at [email protected]
Location: St. John's "Grub Hill" Church, 12640 Grub Hill,  Church Rd. Amelia Court House, VA.
Firing Event: Yes
Event Color Guard Commander: TBA.
Heat Index:
Details: The roadside marker being dedicated at this event will inform travelers they are passing the burial site of Revolutionary War Major Joseph Eggleston and point them to his graveside marker dedicated, last November. This roadside marker will be the first Pomeroy Foundation-sponsored Virginia SAR marker dedication.
"Lighthorse Harry" Lee's second in command, Major Eggleston was captured at Elizabethtown and later exchanged. Rejoining his unit, Eggleston was recognized for gallantry in his distinguished service at Guilford, Augusta and Eutaw Springs.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees: Dunaway.

June 8th, 2024, Saturday (11:00 am) - Commemoration of the Virginia Declaration of Rights, Lorton, VA
Event Level: Chapter
Host/POC: George Mason Chapter VASSAR / Ken Morris.
Location: Mason Family Cemetery Gunston Hall, 10709 Gunston Road, Lorton, VA.
Firing Event: Yes
Event Color Guard Commander: B.Schwoerer.
Heat Index:
Details: The Commemoration of the Virginia Declaration of Rights authored by George Mason and Adopted on June 12, 1776, by the Virginia Constitutional Convention will take place in the form of a wreath laying at the tomb of George Mason. This document contained points that Thomas Jefferson used in the first ten amendments to the U. S. Declaration of Independence less than a month later, on July 4, 1776.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees: Bonner, Morris, Sink, B.Schwoerer.

June 8th, 2024, Saturday (11:30 am) – 250th Anniversary of the Fredericksburg Resolves, Fredericksburg, VA
Event Level: Chapter
Host/POC: Col. Fielding Lewis Chapter VASSAR / John Hamilton (540) 847-5529.
Location: Rising Sun Tavern, 1304 Caroline St, Fredericksburg, VA.
Firing Event: No
Event CG Commander: TBA
Heat Index:
Details: Col. Fielding Lewis Chapter will observe the June 1, 1774, 250th anniversary of the Fredericksburg Resolves. This will be combined with our regular June chapter meeting on June 8th. This meeting will be held at Rising Sun Tavern located at 1304 Caroline St, Fredericksburg, VA. Tours of the Rising Sun Museum may be also available. As part of our program, the Resolves will be read by someone in colonial attire. The luncheon will be provided by the CFL Board of Managers – bring your favorite side dish if you like. RSVP to [email protected]  (CC [email protected] ) strongly requested at the earliest possible date with the number in the party. CFL will provide US, NASSAR, 250th, and CFL flags.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees:

INFORMATION: June 14th, 2024, Friday – 249th Anniversary of the US Army
Event Level: Not a National Event for Color Guard medal purposes.

On 14 June 1775, Congress "Resolved, That six companies of expert riflemen, be immediately raised in Pennsylvania, two in Maryland, and two in Virginia… [and] as soon as completed, shall march and join the army near Boston, to be there employed as light infantry, under the command of the chief Officer in that army."
The delegates then prescribed an oath of enlistment that required the soldiers to swear:
“I have, this day, voluntarily enlisted myself, as a soldier, in the American continental army, for one year, unless sooner discharged: And I do bind myself to conform, in all instances, to such rules and regulations, as are, or shall be, established for the government of the said. Army.”
The next day Congress voted to appoint George Washington “to command all the Continental forces” and began laying the foundation for "the American army."

INFORMATION: June 14th, 2024, Friday - Flag Day
Event Level: Not a National Event for Color Guard medal purposes.

Flag Day is celebrated on June 14 every year and commemorates the adoption of the flag of the United States. In 1777, the second continental congress passed a resolution stating that “the flag of the thirteen United States be thirteen stripes, alternate red and white; that the union be thirteen stars, white in a blue field, representing a new constellation”. George Washington’s troops now had a new, unified flag to represent their cause.  A brief discussion on the Hopkinson and Betsy Ross flags may be found here (link): Hopkinson
There were few public ceremonies that honored the flag until June 14, 1877, when it was flown from every government building for the centennial of the flag’s adoption. After that, many citizens and organizations advocated the adoption of a National Day of Commemoration for the flag. In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson unofficially declared June 14 as Flag Day.
Coincidentally, Wilson also proclaimed “The Star-Spangled Banner” the U.S. national anthem that same year. Nonetheless, Congress did not designate the song as the national anthem until 1931, and only in 1949 did President Harry Truman sign the legislation that made June 14 of each year Flag Day.

June 14th, 2024, Friday (11:00 am) - Commemoration of Dr. Joseph Warren, Front Royal, VA
Event Level:  Chapter
Host/POC: Col. James Wood II Chapter VASSAR / Dale Corey.
Location: 220 N. Commerce, Front Royal, VA.
Firing Event: Yes
Event Color Guard Commander: TBA.
Heat Index:
Details: A commemoration of Dr. Joseph Warren, namesake of Warren County. There will be a presentation on Dr. Warren, wreath presentations, and a musket salute fired in his honor.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees:

June 15th, 2024, Saturday (11:00 am) – Gen. Daniel Morgan's Commemoration, Winchester, VA
Event Level: State
Host/POC: Col. James Wood II Chapter VASSAR / Dale Corey.
Location: Mount Hebron Cemetery, 305 E Boscawen Street, Winchester, VA.
Firing Event: Yes
Event Color Guard Commander: TBA.
Heat Index:
Details: Daniel Morgan (1735/1736 – July 6, 1802) was an American pioneer, soldier, and politician from Virginia. One of the most respected battlefield tacticians of the American Revolutionary War of 1775–1783, he later commanded troops during the suppression of the Whiskey Rebellion of 1791–1794.
Born in New Jersey to Welsh immigrants, Morgan settled in Winchester, Virginia. He became an officer of the Virginia militia and recruited a company of riflemen at the start of the Revolutionary War. Early in the war, Morgan served in Benedict Arnold's expedition to Quebec and in the Saratoga campaign. He also served in the Philadelphia campaign before resigning from the army in 1779.
Morgan returned to the army after the Battle of Camden and led the Continental Army to victory in the Battle of Cowpens. After the war, Morgan retired from the army again and developed a large estate. He was recalled to duty in 1794 to help suppress the Whiskey Rebellion and commanded a portion of the army that remained in Western Pennsylvania after the rebellion. Morgan, a member of the Federalist Party, ran for the United States House of Representatives twice, winning the House election in 1796. He retired from Congress in 1799 and died in 1802.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees:

TBC: June 15th, 2024, Saturday (11:00 am) - Commemoration of the Battle of Monmouth, Manalapan, NJ
Event level: National
Host/POC: NJSSAR / J. Hershey.
Location:  Monmouth Battlefield State Park, 20 State Route 33, Manalapan, NJ.
Firing Event: TBA.
Event Color Guard Commander: TBA.
Heat Index:
Details: TBA.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees:

June 16th, 2024, Sunday (1:30 pm) – Dedication of a Plaque & Patriot Grave Marking for the Chairman Loudoun Resolves, Leesburg, VA
Event Level: Chapter
Host Chapter: Sgt Maj John Champe Chapter VASSAR / Barry Schwoerer at [email protected]t.
Location: Ball Burying Ground, 42045 Victory Lane, Leesburg, VA (Fenced Cemetery on the left just before North Spring Behavioral Healthcare)  
Firing Event: Yes
Heat Index:  
Event Color Guard Commander: Sink.
Details: This will be the second event in Commemoration of the 250th Anniversary of the signing of Loudoun Resolves.  Francis Peyton was the chairman of the Loudoun Resolves and a patriot of the American Revolution.  The ceremony will dedicate a plaque commemorating his service as Chairman of the Resolves and will dedicate a  Patriot grave marker.  Parking will be on the grounds of North Spring Behavioral Healthcare.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees:  Bonner, B.Schwoerer,  J. Schwoerer, Sink, Van Deusen, Workman.

NEW (4/17/24): June 22nd, 2024, Saturday (1:00 pm) - Dedication of Lafayette Trail Marker
Event Level: Chapter
Host/POC: Sgt Maj John Champe Chapter / Barry Schwoerer.
Sponsor:  Loudoun County VA 250 Committee.
Location: Loudoun County Courthouse, 18 E. Market Street, Leesburg, VA.
Firing Event: No
Event Color Guard Commander: Barry Schwoerer.
Heat Index:
Details: Muster at 12:15 pm at the Spirit of Loudoun Revolutionary War Memorial near the old Courthouse.  
Event will be attended by Julien Icher - Lafayette Trails, members of the Loudoun County Board of Supervisors, Mayor of Leesburg, multiple DAR Ladies, and Loudoun County VA 250 Committee members.  The Loudoun County VA 250 Committee plans to advertise this event hoping for a large public turnout.  Parking garages available a short walk from the event site.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees: Schwoerer, Sink, Bonner.

June 23rd, 2024, Sunday (2:00 pm) – Chief Justice John Marshall Grave Marking, Richmond, VA
Event Level: State
Host/POC: Richmond Chapter VASSAR / Chris Yong at [email protected], (248) 703-1755
Location: Shockoe Hill Cemetery, 320 Hospital St., Richmond, VA.
Firing Event: No
Event Color Guard Commander: TBA
Details: John Marshall is still known as the quintessential Supreme Court Justice and is perhaps the most influential person in asserting the power of the Supreme Court and assuring the Executive and Legislative branches adhered to the U.S. Constitution.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees:

June 25th, 2024, Tuesday (11:00 am) – Presentation of the Colors at DAR Constitution Hall, Washington, DC
Event Level: Chapter (support to NSDAR)
Host/POC: Sgt. Maj. John Champe Chapter VASSAR / Ken Bonner at [email protected]
Location: DAR Constitution Hall, 18th St., NW, Washington, DC.
Firing Event: No
Event Color Guard Commander: Bonner
Details: NSDAR PG has requested a compact SAR Color Guard to parade the Colors (four flags: US, US period, DAR, plus one other).  There are only four positions available.  All Guardsmen must be in Continental (Regimental) uniform.  If interested, please contact Ken Bonner.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees: Bonner.

July 1st, 2023, Saturday - Reading of the Declaration of Independence and Wreath Presentation, Front Royal, VA
Event Level:  National
Host/POC:  Col. James Wood II Chapter VASSAR and Warren Heritage Society / TBA.
Location:  Warren Heritage Society, 101 Chester St., Front Royal, VA.
Firing Event:  Yes
Event Color Guard Commander: TBA.
Heat Index:
Details: TBA.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees:

July 3rd, 2024, Wednesday (10:00 am – 4:00 pm) - Rockin' Independence Eve, Winchester, VA
Event Level: Chapter
Host/POC: Col. James Wood II Chapter VASSAR/Dale Corey and City of Winchester.
Location: Walking Mall, Winchester, VA.
Firing Event: No
Event Color Guard Commander: TBA.
Heat Index:
Details: “Rockin' Independence Eve” is held at the Walking Mall, Winchester, Virginia.  This event is an annual celebration held by the city of Winchester to honor and commemorate the United States' birthday.  Numerous vendors are present, with live bands playing throughout the day.  VASSAR Color Guard will present colors for the National Anthem.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees:

INFORMATION: July 4th, 2024, Thursday – Independence Day
Event Level: National

"...We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. --That to secure these rights Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed."

July 4th, 2024, Thursday (TBA) – Reading of the Declaration of Independence, Winchester, VA
Event Level: National
Host/POC:  Col. James Wood II Chapter VASSAR / Dale Corey.
Location:  Walking Mall, Winchester, VA.
Firing Event:  No
Event Color Guard Commander: TBA.
Heat Index:
Details: CJWII will read the Declaration of Independence.  Muster at 9:45 am.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees:

July 4th, 2024, Thursday (10:00 am) - Fourth of July Celebration, Abingdon, VA
Event Level: National
Host/POC: Gen. William Campbell Chapter VASSAR / John Gullion.
Location: Abingdon Muster Grounds1780 Muster Place, Abingdon, VA.
Firing Event: Yes
Event Color Guard Commander: Gullion.
Heat Index:
Details: Come out and join us at the Abingdon  Muster Grounds, where we step back in time when a dispatch rider brings the news that we have declared independence from England.  There will be a reading of the Declaration of Independence.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees:

July 4th, 2024, Thursday (TBD) – Independence Day Parade, Leesburg, VA
Event Level: Chapter
Host Chapter: Sgt Maj John Champe Chapter/Barry Schwoerer ([email protected])
Location: Parade goes down Market Street from Ida Lee Park to King Street down Market  for about 1 mile.   
Firing Event: No
Event Color Guard Commander: Sink
Details: The SMJC Float will be the highlight of SAR involvement.  We partner with DAR and CAR with most attendees in Colonial attire or Rev War militia or Regimental attire.   Compatriots from other SAR chapters invited to join in.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees:  Bonner, Schwoerer, Sink, Workman.

July 4th, 2024, Thursday (4:00 pm) - Fourth of July Parade, Middletown, VA
Event Level: National
Host/POC:  Col. James Wood II Chapter VASSAR and City of Middletown / Dale Corey.
Location: Middletown, VA.
Firing Event:  No
Event Color Guard Commander: TBA.
Heat Index:
Details: The Middletown Parade route begins at Laurel Ridge Community College, going south on Main Street.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees:

Event Level: National
Host/POC: George Washington Chapter VASSAR / TBA,
Location: George Washington's Mount Vernon, VA.
Firing Event: No
Event Color Guard Commander: TBA.
Event Honor Guard Commander: TBA.
Heat Index:
Details: Assemble at the Ann Pamela Cunningham Administrative Building between 9:00 AM and 9:15 AM. At 9:30 AM, expect to receive the “green light” from the Mount Vernon staff to march down to Bowling Green, and pass in review between the ranks of the 1st Virginia Regiment and the George Washington portrayer, then proceeding to Tomb Grove.  
At the Tomb Grove, the George Washington Chapter will conduct a brief ceremony featuring remarks from the GW Chapter President. There will be a wreath-laying ceremony at George Washington’s Tomb after the ceremony. Approximately 40 attendees will be allowed to lay a carnation (provided by the Chapter) at General Washington’s and Martha Washington’s Tombs. The ceremony will conclude at 11:00 AM, and participants should return to the Tomb Grove for photographs.
Note: Please refer to the VASSAR Color Guard Playbook for parade formation and movement. Go to the following link:  Mt Vernon Playbook
Safety Note: Don't forget to bring plenty of water and remain hydrated.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees:
Maryland SAR Color Guard Attendees:

July 4th, 2024, Thursday (1:00 pm) - Reading of the Declaration of Independence, Culpeper, VA
Event Level: National
Host/POC: Culpeper Minutemen Chapter / Charles Jameson.
Location: Yowell Meadows Park, Charters of Freedom, N. Blue Ridge Ave, Culpeper, VA.
Firing Event: Yes
Event Color Guard Commander: TBA.
Heat Index:
Details: Muster at 12:15 pm.  Reading of the Declaration of Independence followed by a musket volley.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees:

July 6th, 2024, Saturday (10:00 am) – Commemoration of the Battle of Green Spring, Williamsburg, VA
Event Level:  Chapter
Host/POC:  Williamsburg Chapter VASSAR / Gary Dunaway, [email protected]  (757) 303-3673.
Location:  Church on the Main, 4644 Yeardley Loop, Williamsburg, VA.
Firing Event: No
Event Color Guard Commander: TBA.
Heat Index:
Details: On the morning of July 6, 1781, Lafayette accompanied his advance guard under the command of General Anthony Wayne. Upon reaching Green Spring, the Americans began skirmishing with pickets under the command of Banastre Tarleton. Lafayette, believing that he had caught the rearguard of the British army, called for the rest of his force to join the battle.  As Wayne formed up, Lafayette examined the field. Riding forward, he noted a large group of men in red coats formed in lines. Realizing that Cornwallis had set a trap, Lafayette galloped back to the advance guard under Wayne, but it was too late.  Advancing with several regiments, Wayne marched right into a veteran British brigade commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Thomas Dundas. Dundas’s Brigade smashed through the American right flank with a decisive bayonet charge while the American left was hard-pressed by British light infantry.  Lafayette gave the order for the entire American force to withdraw. Wayne’s men formed a rearguard. For fifteen minutes, the two sides blazed away at each other. Eventually, Wayne decided that the carnage was too great for his men and ordered a retreat.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees: Dunaway.

July 6th, 2024, Saturday (11:00 am) - Commemoration of the Battle of Cricket Hill, Hudgins, VA
Event Level: Chapter
Host/POC:  Richard Henry Lee Chapter VASSAR / Michael Rhodes.
Location:  Morningstar Marinas, 249 Mill Point Rd, Hudgins, VA.
Firing event: No
Event Color Guard Commander: TBA.
Heat Index:
Details: The battle, which culminated on July 9, 1776, was a signal victory for the Patriots because it resulted in John Murray, the Earl of Dunmore, the last Royal Governor of Virginia, leaving Virginia for good.  The victory at Cricket Hill was the first victory by an American force after the Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776.  Note: in the event of inclement weather the ceremony will be moved indoors to the Marina boat storage building.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees:

July 10th-17th, 2024, Wednesday to Wednesday – 134th Annual NSSAR Congress – Lancaster, PA
Event Level: National
Host/POC:  NSSAR / PASSAR
Location:  Marriott, 25 South Queen St., Lancaster, PA, 17603.
Details:  https://passar.org/2024%20Congress/2024%20SAR%20National%20Congress.html
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees: Osborn, B.Schwetke.

July 16th, 2024, Tuesday (TBA) – Bastille Day Celebration, Norfolk, VA
Event Level: Public Service
Host/POC: Norfolk Chapter VASSAR / John Hall & Chris Melhuish.
Location: Norfolk Yacht and Country Club, 7001 Hampton Blvd., Norfolk, VA.
Firing Event: TBA
Details: The French Military in Hampton Roads are planning to commemorate their Bastille Day at the Norfolk Yacht and Country Club on Tuesday, July 16th.  They have requested a small uniformed SAR presence to augment their own period uniformed personnel.  Invitational details to follow.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees: Melhuish.

July 18th, 2024, Thursday (9:30 am) – 250th Anniversary of the Signing of the Fairfax Resolves, George Mason’s Grave, Gunston Hall, VA
Event Level: National
Host/POC: Fairfax Resolves Chapter & George Mason Chapter VASSAR / TBD.
Location: George Mason’s Grave, 10709 Gunston Road, Lorton, VA.
Firing Event:  TBD
Event Color Guard Commander: TBA.
Heat Index:
Details: The Fairfax Resolves were written by George Mason and adopted by a Fairfax County committee chaired by George Washington on July 18th, 1774.  The Resolves came in response to the Intolerable Acts (also known as the Coercive Acts), passed by the British Parliament in March 1774 to punish the colonies after the Boston Tea Party. The Acts enraged the colonies and mobilized resistance.  Twenty-five patriots signed the Fairfax Resolves, which have been called “one of the most important documents in American history” and “the best single document for understanding the constitutional and legal issues between the colonies and England.” This ceremony will commemorate George Mason as the author of the Fairfax Resolves and will feature a George Mason “first person” account of the signing of the Fairfax Resolves.
Additional information and registration at this link: TBA
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees: Dunaway.

July 18th, 2024, Thursday (11:30 am) – 250th Anniversary of the Signing of the Fairfax Resolves – George Washington’s Tomb, Mt Vernon, VA
Event Level: National
Host/POC: Fairfax Resolves & George Washington Chapter VASSAR / TBD.
Location: George Washington’s Tomb, 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway, Mt Vernon, VA.
Firing Event: No
Event Color Guard Commander: TBA.
Heat Index:
Details: The Fairfax Resolves were written by George Mason and adopted by a Fairfax County committee chaired by George Washington on July 18th, 1774.  The Resolves came in response to the Intolerable Acts (also known as the Coercive Acts), passed by the British Parliament in March 1774 to punish the colonies after the Boston Tea Party. The Acts enraged the colonies and mobilized resistance.  Twenty-five patriots signed the Fairfax Resolves, which have been called “one of the most important documents in American history” and “the best single document for understanding the constitutional and legal issues between the colonies and England.”  This ceremony will commemorate George Washington as Chairman of the committee and will feature a George Washington “first person” account of the signing of the Fairfax Resolves.
Additional information and registration at this link: TBA
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees: Dunaway.

July 18th, 2024, Thursday (3:00 pm) – 250th Anniversary of the Signing of the Fairfax Resolves, Pohick Episcopal Church, Lorton, VA
Event Level: National
Host/POC: Fairfax Resolves Chapter VASSAR / TBD.
Location:  Pohick Episcopal Church, 9301 Richmond Hwy, Lorton, VA.
Firing Event:  No
Event Color Guard Commander: TBA.
Heat Index:
Details: The Fairfax Resolves were written by George Mason and adopted by a Fairfax County committee chaired by George Washington on July 18th, 1774.  The Resolves came in response to the Intolerable Acts (also known as the Coercive Acts), passed by the British Parliament in March 1774 to punish the colonies after the Boston Tea Party. The Acts enraged the colonies and mobilized resistance.  Twenty-five patriots signed the Fairfax Resolves, which have been called “one of the most important documents in American history” and “the best single document for understanding the constitutional and legal issues between the colonies and England.” This ceremony will commemorate Rev Lee Massey as Rector of Pohick Church and signer of the Fairfax Resolves and will feature a Rev Lee Massey “first person” account of the signing of the Fairfax Resolves.
Additional information and registration at this link: TBA
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees: Dunaway.

Event Level: National
Host/POC: Fairfax Resolves Chapter VASSAR / TBD.
Location: Market Square, 300 King Street, Alexandria, VA.
Firing Event:  TBD.
Event Color Guard Commander: TBA.
Heat Index:
Details: The Fairfax Resolves were written by George Mason and adopted by a Fairfax County committee chaired by George Washington on July 18th, 1774.  The Resolves came in response to the Intolerable Acts (also known as the Coercive Acts), passed by the British Parliament in March 1774 to punish the colonies after the Boston Tea Party. The Acts enraged the colonies and mobilized resistance.  Twenty-five patriots signed the Fairfax Resolves, which have been called “one of the most important documents in American history” and “the best single document for understanding the constitutional and legal issues between the colonies and England.” This culminating ceremony will commemorate the signing of the Fairfax Resolves near the site of the old Fairfax County courthouse in Alexandria and will feature George Washington, George Mason, and Rev Lee Massey's “first person” accounts of the signing of the Fairfax Resolves.  
Additional information and registration at this link: TBA
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees:

August 2nd, 2024, Friday (11:30 am) – Sign Dedication, Fort Story, Virginia Beach, VA
Event Level: Chapter
Host/POC: Lynnhaven Parish Chapter, NSDAR / Carolyn Guenveur, [email protected]
Location: 583 Atlantic Ave, Joint Expeditionary Base, Fort Story, VA.
Firing Event: No (onboard US military base)
Event CG Commander: TBA
Heat Index:
Details: VADAR chapter is planning an event for their funded sign to be installed inside the original Cape Henry Lighthouse on Fort Story. Since they received a grant from the State DAR Society for the Regent's project, they wish to make this a memorable event. They request VASSAR Color Guard support.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees:

August 9th - 10th, 2024, Friday-Saturday - Atlantic Middle States Association (AMSA) Williamsburg, VA
Event Level: District
Host/POC:  VASSAR Sub Committee / Bill Greaf; Ken Hawkins.
Location:  Williamsburg Lodge, 310 South England St., Williamsburg, VA.
Firing Event: No
Event Color Guard Commander: TBA.
Details: Agenda TBA.  Hotel registration:  hotel registration is now available for the Williamsburg Lodge. The single and double occupancy base rate per room is $199.00 plus taxes and parking. The rate is protected between August 6th -15th if you choose to extend your stay and visit the Historic Triangle of Jamestown, Yorktown, and the Williamsburg areas. Conference registration will be forthcoming, but in the meantime, we encourage you to secure your hotel reservations before the guaranteed rate is exhausted. The block is under the name of Virginia Society, Sons of American Revolution. We are looking forward to providing you with an exciting agenda to meet our business, historic, and social engagements. Compatriots and guests can book their hotel rooms online at this web address: https://book.passkey.com/e/50775027.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees: Dunaway, Melhuish.

Note: A reception will be held on Friday, August 16 and a Patriot Grave Marking will be held in Lexington on Sunday, August 18.  Click here for the flyer: Blue Licks.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees:

August 17th, 2024, Saturday (noon) – Opening Ceremony of the Nansemond Indian Nation Annual Pow Wow, Suffolk, VA
Event Level: Chapter
Host/POC: Nansemond Indian Patriot Chapter VASSAR / Tom Badamo.
Location: 1001 Pembroke Lane, Suffolk, VA.
Firing Event: No
Event Color Guard Commander: TBA.
Heat Index:
Details: TBA.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees: Badamo, Melhuish.

August 24th, 2024, Saturday (10:00 am ) - Patriot Monument Dedication to George Flohr, Royal Deux Ponts Regt., Wytheville, VA
Event Level: Chapter
Host/POC: Lt. David Cox Chapter VASSAR / Rollie Ney at [email protected]. Alternate Bruce Meyer at [email protected].
Location: St. John's Cemetery1650 N 4th St., Wytheville, VA.
Firing Event: Yes
Event Color Guard Commander: TBA
Heat Index:
Details: On August 24th, 2024, Lt. David Cox chapter, VASSAR,  will dedicate a granite stone engraved with a description of Private George Daniel Flohr’s service in the American Revolution with the Royal Deux Ponts Regiment (French Army). SAR member, author, and German scholar Robert A. Selig will be the keynote speaker.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees:

September 11th, 2024, Wednesday – Commemoration of the 9/11 Attack on America, Culpeper, VA
Event Level: National (Massing of the Colors)
Host/POC: Culpeper Minutemen Chapter VASSAR / Bill Schwetke.
Location: Fire Station, 1121 North Main St, Culpeper, VA.
Firing Event: No
Event Color Guard Commander: B.Schwetke.
Heat Index:
Details: No wreaths - No musket firing - just four presentations of the Colors.
We would like individual color guards of four to five compatriots (we can mix chapters), with two or three flags made up of US and one or both of Virginia & Chapter Flags, flanked by two compatriots with weapons.  We will not fire the firelocks.  We expect to be joined by, at a minimum, the American Legion, VFW, Culpeper Fire Department, Culpeper Sheriff's Dept, Culpeper Police Dept, and the Virginia Defense Force Mounted Color Guard.
Monday, 11 Sep, Color Guard first musters at 8:15 am, in front of the Culpeper Volunteer Fire Department,  153 West Davis Street, Culpeper, VA, then sequences through the following schedule, starting promptly at the listed time, which you may join or leave at any point (click here for graphics: map):
08:46 - Fire Department
09:03 - On the Courthouse Green (across from the Fire Department)
09:37 - Wine Street Military Memorial
10:03 - Intersection of Davis and Main
 (The times are the impact times of the four planes on 9-11-2001.)
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees: B.Schwetke.

NEW (4/21/24):  September 13th, 2024, Friday (10:00 am) - Grave marking for LtCol William Langborn, Aide de Camp to Marquis de Lafayette
Event Level: Chapter
Host/POC: Williamsburg Chapter VASSAR / Gary Dunaway at [email protected] (757) 303-3673.
Location: 8400 St Peter's Lane, New Kent, VA.
Firing Event: Yes
Event CG Commander: Dunaway.
Heat Index:
Details: Grave marking for LtCol William Langborn. He served in the 6th Virginia Regiment and as Aide de Camp to Marquis de Lafayette. The Bicentennial of Lafayette's ceremonial tour of America starts this August, so the stars are aligned for this moment to honor Patriot Langborn. This ceremony will precede the VASSAR Semi-Annual Conference to be held in Williamsburg starting that afternoon. It should be convenient for our northern and western compatriots to attend on their way to the conference.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees: Dunaway, Melhuish.

September 13th-14th, 2024, Friday-Saturday – VASSAR Semi-Annual Meeting, Williamsburg, VA
Event Level: State
Host/POC: Williamsburg Chapter VASSAR / TBA.
Location: Woodlands Hotel and Conference Center, Williamsburg, VA.
Firing Event: No
Event Color Guard Commander: Osborn.
Details: Agenda TBA.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees: Dunaway, Osborn, Melhuish.

INFORMATION:  September 15th, 2023, Friday - National POW / MIA Day
Event Level: Chapter

The POW / MIA flag should generally not be carried in a parade or by a Color Guard (except by an honor guard member carrying it as a Personal Color at a military funeral).  Follow the background here: thedrillmaster.org/2019/01/15/all-about-the-pow-mia-flag-protocol/   
One comment from the Drillmaster: "The POW / MIA flag is always posted alone before the ceremony without any ceremony for its posting. It is helpful if it is posted near the missing man table... Posting it near the table, which is off on its own, creates a special place for both as a whole."

TBC: September 15th, 2024, Sunday (8:00 am) - Vigil at Washington's Tomb, Mount Vernon, VA
Event Level: National
Host/POC: NSSAR Color Guard / Scott Collins.
Location: George Washington's Mount Vernon, Alexandria, VA.
Firing Event: No
National Color Guard Commander: Collins.
Heat Index:
Details: The National Color Guard staff cordially invites you to honor our patriot commander. We will meet at the Administration (Ann Pamela Cunningham) Building at 8:00 AM. The March to the Tomb begins at 8:30 a.m. sharp. The first guard rotation will start at 9:00 AM and change every 15 minutes. The March from the Tomb back to the Mansion will start at 4:00 PM. Please join us to stand guard for one or more shifts. We also welcome participation in one or both marches as your schedule allows. A few Muskets / Rifles will be available for you to use while standing guard.
As we have done in the past several years, the signup will be done electronically using the following link: Vigil Registration.
Note:  the annual Colonial Fair & Market will be held over the weekend. 
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees:

TBC: September 15th, 2024, Sunday (TBA) - President General's Wreath Laying at the Tomb of the Unknowns, Arlington, VA
Event Level: National
Host/POC:  George Washington Chapter VASSAR / TBA.
Location:  Tomb of the Unknowns, Arlington National Cemetery, VA.
Firing Event:  No
Event Color Guard Commander: TBA.
Heat Index:
Details: TBA.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees:

September 15th, 2024, Sunday (2:00 pm) - Wreath Laying at the grave of Pvt. John Broddy, VA
Event Level: Chapter
Host/POC:  General William Campbell Chapter VASSAR / John Gullion.
Location:  GPS 36.894634, -81.756998.
Firing Event: Yes
Event Color Guard Commander: Gullion.
Heat Index:
Details: Since 2012, the General William Campbell Chapter-VASSAR, Black’s Fort Chapter, Virginia Society, DAR, and the Overmountain Victory Trail Association (OVTA) have honored PVT John Broddy, Brig. Gen. Campbell’s manservant and a patriot in the fight for independence at 2 pm on Sunday before Sept 24th. The African-American Broddy cemetery is located on land left to Broddy from Campbell’s estate. The cemetery was not known publicly until its rediscovery in 2012.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees:

Event Level: Chapter
Host/POC:  General William Campbell Chapter VASSAR / John Gullion.
Location: 303 Seven Mile Ford Rd, Marion, VA.
Firing Event: Yes
Event Color Guard Commander: TBA.
Heat Index:
Details: Since 2012, the General William Campbell Chapter-VASSAR, Black’s Fort Chapter, Virginia Society, DAR, and the Overmountain Victory Trail Association (OVTA) have honored Brig. Gen. Campbell. At 4 pm, the groups will convene at Aspinvale Cemetery, the final resting place of Brig. Gen. Campbell.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees:

September 17th, 2024, Tuesday (10:30 am) - Constitution Day Commemoration, Winchester, VA
Event Level: Chapter
Host/POC: Col. James Wood II Chapter VASSAR / Dale Corey.
Location: Mount Hebron Cemetery, Winchester, VA.
Firing Event: Yes
Event Color Guard Commander: TBA.
Heat Index:
Details: TBA.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees:

September 21, 2024, Saturday ( 4:00 pm )  -  Franco-American Alliance Commemoration, Annapolis, MD
Event Level: Chapter
Host/POC: US Naval Academy; John Paul Jones Chapter MDSSAR (Glenn Moss at [email protected]); Peggy Stewart Tea Party Chapter NSDAR.
Location: Worden Field, US Naval Academy, Annapolis, MD.
Firing event: No
Event Color Guard Commander: Glenn Moss
Details: A wreath-laying event at Worden Field, US Naval Academy commemorating the French army encampment on the banks of the Severn River September 18-21, 1781, while enroute to the Siege of Yorktown.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees:

September 22nd, 2024, Sunday (10:00 am - 4:00 pm) - Abington Muster Commemoration, Abingdon, VA
Event Level: State
Host:  Overmountain Victory Trail Association (OVTA), with support from VASSAR.
VASSAR POC: Gen. William Campbell Chapter VASSAR / John Gullion
Location: 1780 Muster Place, Abingdon, VA.
Firing event: Yes
Event Color Guard Commander: Gullion.
Heat Index:
Details: This event, organized by the OVTA, is supported by VASSAR.  OVTA, SAR, and DAR will present a public education day on life in the colonial backcountry. The event will include stations where visitors learn about various topics, from salt making and cooking to land surveying and combat. A ceremony for the Abingdon Muster will occur at 1:30 that afternoon, honoring the 400 Virginians who participated in the Overmountain Campaign and those who lost their lives at the battle.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees:

September 28th, 2024, Saturday  11:00am – Commemoration of John Champe’s assignment to Capture Benedict Arnold, Fairmont, WV
Event Level: Chapter
Host Chapter: Sgt Maj John Champe Chapter/Barry Schwoerer ([email protected])
Location: Champe Grave Site, Cemetery adjacent to Prickett’s Fort Historic Site, 88 State Park Road, Fairmont, WV.
Firing Event: Yes
Event Color Guard Commander: Sink
Details: Sgt Maj John Champe was nominated by Light Horse Harry Lee to execute a daring mission to capture the traitor Benedict Arnold and return him to the American side for Court Martial.  George Washington accepted Champe’s nomination.  The commemoration will take place at John Champe’s headstone in the cemetery adjacent to the reconstructed Fort.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees: B.Schwoerer, Sink.

October 1st, 2023, Sunday (2:00 pm) – Commemoration of the founding of the Fairfax Independent Company, Fairfax, VA
Event Level: Chapter
Host/POC:  Fairfax Resolves Chapter / Dave Cook.
Location:  (TBC) National Museum of the US Army, 1775 Liberty Dr., Fort Belvoir, VA.
(or) Fairfax City Veterans Amphitheater, 10455 Armstrong Street, Fairfax, VA.
(or) Outside Historic Fairfax Courthouse, 4000 Chain Bridge Road, Fairfax, VA.
Firing Event: No
Event Color Guard Commander: TBA.
Details: TBA.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees:

TBC: October 5th, 2024, Saturday – Commemoration of the Battle of Kings Mountain, Blacksburg, SC
Event Level: National
Host/POC: Kings Mountain Chapter NCSSAR / Daniel Morgan Chapter SCSSAR.
Location: Kings Mountain National Military Park, 2625 Park Rd., Blacksburg, SC.
Firing Event:  Yes
Event Color Guard Commander: TBA.
Details: The Commemoration of the 244th Anniversary of the Battle of Kings Mountain will have a wreath-laying ceremony beginning at 11 a.m.  Anticipate about 60 min. total time.
A registration table will be set up outside the Visitors Center to link up with the National Color Guard Commander and the other state color guard participants.
 The Battle of Kings Mountain was fought on October 7, 1780, and destroyed the left wing of Lord Cornwallis' army, effectively ending Loyalist ascendance in the Carolinas. The victory halted the British advance into North Carolina, forced Lord Cornwallis to retreat from Charlotte into South Carolina, and allowed General Nathanael Greene to reorganize the American Army. The Patriot force of about 1,400 men was under the overall command of Colonel William Campbell, Virginia Militia.
In "The Winning of the West," SAR Compatriot President Theodore Roosevelt wrote of Kings Mountain, "This brilliant victory marked the turning point of the American Revolution." Thomas Jefferson called it "The turn of the tide of success". SAR Compatriot President Herbert Hoover at the sesquicentennial commemoration at the site of the battle, said, "This small band of Patriots turned back a dangerous invasion well designed to separate and dismember the united Colonies. It was a little army and a little battle, but it was of mighty portent. History has done scant justice to its significance, which rightly should place it beside Lexington, Bunker Hill, Trenton, and Yorktown."  {Hoover's full sesquicentennial address may be reached here: Speech.]
In 1931, the Congress of the United States created the Kings Mountain National Military Park at the site of the battle.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees:

October 12th, 2024, Saturday (7:00 pm) - Honoring Kings Mountain Patriots, Abingdon, VA
Event Level: Chapter
Host/POC:  General William Campbell Chapter VASSAR / TBA.
Location:  Sinking Spring Cemetery, Abingdon, VA.
Firing Event: No
Event Color Guard Commander: TBA.
Details: TBA.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees:

 INFORMATION: October 13th, 2024, Sunday – 249th Anniversary of the US Navy
Event Level: Not a National Event for Color Guard medal purposes.

A 13 October 1775 resolution of the Continental Congress established what is now the United States Navy with “a swift sailing vessel, to carry ten carriage guns, and a proportionable number of swivels, with eighty men, be fitted, with all possible despatch, for a cruise of three months….” After the American War of Independence, the U.S. Constitution empowered the new Congress “to provide and maintain a navy.” Acting on this authority, Congress established the Department of the Navy on 30 April 1798.
 In 1972, Chief of Naval Operations Admiral Elmo R. Zumwalt authorized official recognition of 13 October as the birthday of the U.S. Navy. Since then, each CNO has encouraged a Navy-wide celebration of this occasion “to enhance a greater appreciation of our Navy heritage and to provide a positive influence toward pride and professionalism in the naval service.”

October 19th, 2024, Saturday (9:15 am) – Wreath Laying at the tomb of Thomas Nelson Jr., Yorktown, VA
Event Level: National
Host/POC: Thomas Nelson Jr Chapter VASSAR / Gary Hodges.
Location:  Grace Episcopal Church, Yorktown, VA.
Firing Event: No
Event Color Guard Commander: TBA.
Honor Guard Commander: TBA.
Details:  Muster no later than 8:15 due to complex lay-out.  Event Playbook link here: Thomas Nelson Playbook
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees: Dunaway, Melhuish.

Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees: Dunaway, Hodges, Melhuish.

October 21st, 2023, Saturday (11:00 am) - Culpeper Minutemen Muster, Culpeper, VA
Event Level: State
Host/POC: Culpeper Minutemen Chapter VASSAR / TBA.
Location: Yowell Meadow Park, N Blue Ridge Ave, Culpeper, VA.
Firing Event: Yes
Event Color Guard Commander: TBA.
Details: Head for the Gardner Street Entrance, rather than the main parking area.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees:

October 27th, 2024, Sunday (2:00 pm) – Bolling / Lafayette Historic Marker Dedication, North Chesterfield, VA
Event Level: Chapter
Host/POC: Richmond Chapter VASSAR / Chris Yong at [email protected] (248) 703-1755
Firing Event: No
Event Color Guard Commander: TBA
Details: This is the marker text: "SUSANNA BOLLING WAS 16 WHEN BRITISH GENERAL CORNWALLIS QUARTERED IN HER CITY POINT/ HOPEWELL, VA HOME. SHE OVERHEARD HIM PLOTTING TO CAPTURE CONTINENTAL ARMY GENERAL LAFAYETTE, WHO HEADQUARTERED HERE AT THE HALFWAY HOUSE. SUSANNA SNUCK OUT OF HER HOME, CROSSED THE APPOMATTOX RIVER, AND RODE ALMOST 15 MILES THROUGH THE NIGHT TO WARN LAFAYETTE, WHO ESCAPED. SUSANNA’S HEROISM ALLOWED LAFAYETTE TO CONTINUE LEADING THE VIRGINIA CAMPAIGN, WHICH ENDED WITH CORNWALLIS IN YORKTOWN AND SET THE STAGE FOR THE DECISIVE AMERICAN VICTORY."   The event date also marks the 200th anniversary of Lafayette's visit to Richmond on his return tour to the U.S. The American Friends of Lafayette will be invited to present a wreath.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees:

TBC: November 2nd, 2024, Saturday (TBD) – Veterans Parade, Brunswick, MD
Event Level: Chapter
Host Chapter: Sgt Maj John Champe Chapter/Barry Schwoerer ([email protected])
Location: Downtown Brunswick, MD.
Firing Event: No
Event Color Guard Commander: TBD
Details: The Brunswick Veterans parade is one of the largest and oldest Veterans parades in the Washington DC metro area.   The parade float offered to the SMJC Chapter will be entered.  The float can hold 4-6 riders.  Contact the Chapter if you wish to ride.  Marchers also welcome.  Most SAR participants wear Colonial attire, Militia or Regimental uniform.  DAR and CAR are welcome to participate.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees:  Bonner, B.Schwoerer, Sink, Workman.

November 2nd, 2024, Saturday (11:00 am) - Commemoration of the Skirmish at Kemps Landing, Virginia Beach, VA
Event Level: Chapter
Host/POC: Norfolk Chapter VASSAR / TBA.
Location: Kempsville Emmanuel Episcopal Church, 5181 Singleton Way, Virginia Beach, VA.
Firing Event: No
Preferred Uniform: Militia
Event Color Guard Commander: TBA.
Details: This was the first fight in Virginia where the first Virginian blood was spilled during the Revolutionary War. Lord Dunmore, the Royal Governor of Virginia, sent about 120 British regulars of the 14th Regiment and elements of the newly formed Dunmore's Ethiopian Regiment to Kemp's Landing to combat rebel (Patriot) militia activity in the area. [The Ethiopian Regiment consisted of escaped African-American slaves who signed up to fight for the Crown in response to Dunmore's November 1775 Proclamation granting freedom for military service.] On November 15th, 1775 the Princess Anne militia fired on the British advance guard. The ensuing engagement left 18 Patriots captured, including Col. Joseph Hutchings, 7 killed, including 2 who drowned crossing a creek. Only one British soldier suffered a minor wound. [Outdoors ceremony planned, however currently awaiting approval of the use of the Kempsville Emmanuel Episcopal Church as a fallback venue in the event of inclement weather.]
Virginia SR Color Guard Attendees:

 INFORMATION: November 10th, 2024, Sunday – 249th Anniversary of the US Marine Corps
Event Level: Not a National Event for Color Guard medal purposes.

On November 10, 1775, the Second Continental Congress meeting in Philadelphia passed a resolution stating that "two Battalions of Marines be raised" for service as landing forces with the fleet. This resolution established the Continental Marines and marked the birth date of the United States Marine Corps. Serving on land and at sea, these first Marines distinguished themselves in a number of important operations, including their first amphibious raid into the Bahamas in March 1776 under the command of Captain (later Major) Samuel Nicholas. The first commissioned officer in the Continental Marines, Nicholas remained the senior Marine officer throughout the American Revolution and is considered to be the first Marine Commandant. The Treaty of Paris in April 1783 brought an end to the Revolutionary War, and as the last of the Navy's ships were sold, the Continental Navy and Marines went out of existence.
Following the Revolutionary War and the formal re-establishment of the Marine Corps on 11 July 1798, Marines saw action in the quasi-war with France, landed in Santo Domingo, and took part in many operations against the Barbary pirates along the "Shores of Tripoli".

INFORMATION: November 11th, 2023, Saturday - Veterans Day Commemorations
Event Level: National

Originally known as Armistice Day, in recognition of when the guns fell silent at the 11th hour of the 11th day, November 1918. This day continues to be celebrated in some other countries as Armistice Day or Remembrance Day.  The US changed the name of the national holiday to Veterans Day on June 1, 1954, at the urging of WWII and Korean veterans.
Veterans Day honors the service of all US military Veterans who have served, while Memorial Day honors those who died while in military service to the nation.  The official theme of Veterans Day 2024 will be announced later in the year.
Perhaps not widely known is how the red poppy became a symbol of this national holiday.
In November 1918, a young woman by the name of Moina Belle Michael -- a Daughter of the American Revolution -- was so moved by a Canadian war poet's work ("In Flanders Fields") that she wrote her own poem in response and bought 24 red silk poppies from Wanamaker's in NYC.  At the time, she was on a sabbatical from the University of Georgia to help Veterans in New York.  The American and British Legions adopted her promotion of the red poppy as a symbol to rally public support for caring for veterans.  In 1924, General "Black Jack" Pershing wrote to Moina, “I wish to congratulate you on the splendid patriotic service you have rendered in conducting the sale of poppies on Armistice Day each year for the relief and benefit of war sufferers.”
And so, wearing the poppy on this day honors Veterans and keeps alive the memory of a young DAR Georgia teacher who raised millions to support Veterans by selling poppies.  

November 11th, 2024, Monday (11:00 am) - Veterans Day Commemoration, Abingdon, VA
Event Level: National
Host/POC: Abingdon Memorial Park Foundation and Gen. William Campbell Chapter VASSAR / John Gullion.
Location: Veterans Memorial Park, Abingdon, VA.
Firing Event: Yes
Event Color Guard Commander: TBA.
Details: TBA.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees:

November 11th, 2024, Monday (11:00 am) – Veterans Day Commemoration, Culpeper, VA
Event Level: National
Host/POC: Culpeper Minute Men Chapter VASSAR / Charles Jameson.
Location: Culpeper National Cemetery, 305 US Ave., Culpeper, VA.
Firing Event: Yes (American Legion will fire)
Event Color Guard Commander: TBA.
Details: TBA.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees:

November 11th, 2024, Monday (10:00 am) - Veterans Day Commemoration, Williamsburg, VA
Event Level: National
Host/POC: Williamsburg Chapter VASSAR & Colonial Williamsburg / John Lynch.
Location: Colonial Williamsburg, VA.
Firing Event: No
Event Color Guard Commander:
Details:
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees: Dunaway.

November 11th, 2024, Monday (11:00 am) - Veterans Day Commemoration, Winchester, VA
Event Level: National
Host/POC: Col. James Wood II Chapter VASSAR /
Location: National Cemetery, 401 National Ave., Winchester, VA,
Firing event: Yes
Event Color Guard Commander: TBA.
Details: TBA.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees:

November 11th, 2024, Monday (TBA) - Wreath Laying at Geo. Washington's Tomb, Mt. Vernon, VA
Event Level: National
Host/POC:  George Washington Chapter VASSAR / TBA.
Location:  Mount Vernon, VA.
Firing Event: No
Event Color Guard Commander: TBA.
Details: TBA.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees:

November 11th, 2024, Monday (1:00 pm) - Veterans Day Commemoration, Middletown, VA
Event Level:  National
Host/POC:  Col. James Wood II Chapter VASSAR / TBA.
Location:  TBA.
Firing Event: Yes (provided by the local VFW chapter)
Event Color Guard Commander: TBA.
Details: TBA.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees:

November 23rd, 2024, Saturday (10:00 am) – Lafayette Bicentennial Celebration, Fredericksburg, VA
Event Level: Chapter
Host/POC: Col. Fielding Lewis Chapter VASSAR /
Location: Market Square 909 Princess Anne St., Fredericksburg, VA.  
Firing Event: No
Event Color Guard Commander: TBA
Details:  Color Guard muster no later than 09:15 am.  The city has requested SAR Color Guard support to provide a presentation of colors with the Mayor and salute/escort of General Lafayette and President Monroe as they step off the carriage and walk into Market Square for the opening ceremony. This civic event will reenact the arrival of Lafayette and Monroe in the city during Lafayette's 1824 tour of the United States and is the kickoff of a two-day celebration in Fredericksburg, including balls, lectures, and tours/open houses around the city. Gen. Lafayette and Pres. Monroe will be portrayed by actors coming from Williamsburg. Gen Lafayette and Pres. Monroe will arrive by carriage to Market Square where he will be greeted by local officials (Lafayette and the Mayor reciting the same speeches they made in 1824) and area residents, some in period clothing, and local JROTC cadets. ' Historically, veterans of the Revolutionary War and local militia provided the same during the 1824 visit, according to written accounts provided by the great-great-grandfather of the former Mayor of Fredericksburg, who is the honorary chair of the Committee.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees:

December 7th, 2024, Saturday (11:00 am) - Commemoration of the Battle of Great Bridge, Chesapeake, VA
Event Level: National
Co-Hosts/POCs:  Great Bridge Chapter VASSAR / Don Fergusson; VADAR Great Bridge Chapter /
Location: 1775 Historic Way, Chesapeake, VA.
Firing Event: Yes
Event Color Guard Commander: TBA.
Details: TBA.  Click here for the Playbook: Great Bridge Playbook
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees: Dunaway.

December 7th, 2024, Saturday (TBD) – Leesburg Holiday Parade, Leesburg, VA
Event Level: Chapter
Host Chapter: Sgt Maj John Champe Chapter/Barry Schwoerer ([email protected])
Location: Parade goes down King Street from Lee Park, to  Fairfax Street, Leesburg, VA.
Firing Event: No
Event Color Guard Commander: NA
Details: The parade float offered to the SMJC will be entered.  The float can accommodate 4-6 riders.   DAR and CAR typically join the chapter.  Other SAR Chapters invited and encouraged to join us.  Colonial attire, militia or Regimental uniforms preferred. Parade length approximately 1 mile.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees:  Schwoerer, Sink, Bonner, Workman.

December 8th, 2024, Sunday (5:00 pm) - 56th Abingdon Annual Christmas Parade, Abingdon, VA
Event Level: Chapter
Host/POC:  The Kiwanis Club of Abingdon organizes the parade.  VASSAR POC / John Gullion.
Location: Abingdon, VA.
Firing event: No
Event Color Guard Commander: TBA.
Details: TBA.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees:

December 8th, 2024, Sunday (5:00 pm) –  Support to the 14th Annual Gold Star Family Gala, Chesapeake, VA
Event Level: Public Service
Host/POC:  Honor and Remember Organization / George Lutz, the founder and Gold Star father.
VASSAR POC: Thompson.
Location:  Chesapeake Conference Center, 700 Conference Center Dr., Chesapeake, VA. (Change from previous years.)
Firing Event: No
Event Color Guard Commander: TBA.
Details: Please note the change of venue.  This will mark the twelfth year the VASSAR Color Guard has supported this annual public service event.  It is held to honor and remember our fallen servicemen and women at the Gold Star Family Gala.  Several hundred people typically attend this event.  Only a small Color Guard is usually provided: two musket men and two flag bearers (US and the Honor & Remember flags).  We would also like to add a VASSAR fife and drummer to the team this year.
The NSSAR President General's June 29, 2010, Resolution stated in part, "...be it resolved that the National Society, Sons of the American Revolution supports legislation to establish a unique national flag to honor and remember those who have given their lives in military service for our great nation, the United States of America...and it further resolved that the United States Congress is urged to adopt House of Representatives Bill 1034 to select the 'Honor and Remember Flag' which has been created by Honor and Remember, Incorporated, to serve as a national symbol."
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees:

December 9th, 2023, Saturday (7:30 am) - Culpeper Commemoration of Battle of Great Bridge, Culpeper, VA
Event Level: Chapter
Host/POC: Culpeper Minutemen Chapter VASSAR / TBA.
Location: Culpeper Minuteman Monument, Yowell Meadow Park, Culpeper, VA.
Firing Event: Yes
Event Color Guard Commander: TBA.
Details: TBA.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees:

INFORMATION: December 16th-17th Wreaths Across America
Event Level: National

In 2022, Wreaths Across America (WAA) and its national network of volunteers placed more than 2.7 million sponsored veterans' wreaths on headstones of our nation's service members at 3,702 participating locations. This was accomplished with the support of more than 5,000 sponsorship groups, corporation contributions, and in-kind donations from the transportation industry across the country.  The wreath-laying that began more than 30 years ago is still held annually on the second or third Saturday of December. WAA's annual pilgrimage from Harrington, Maine to Arlington National Cemetery has become known as “the world’s largest veterans’ parade." Every year the convoy of trucks, local law enforcement, staff, and supporters stop at schools, monuments, veterans’ homes and communities along the way to talk about the Wreaths Across America mission and remind people how important it is to remember, honor and teach.

December 14th, 2024, Saturday (11:00 am) - Wreaths Across America, Purcellville, VA
Event Level: National
Host/POC:  Col. James Wood II, Sgt Maj John Champe Chapters VASSAR, and Ketoctin Chapter VADAR.
Locations: (1) Ketoctin Baptist Church, 16595 Ketoctin Church Road, Purcellville, VA.
(2) North Fork Baptist Church, 38130 North Fork, Purcellville, VA.  
(3) North Hill Cemetery, Clarke County, VA.
Firing Events (3):  Yes (at all three cemeteries)
Event Color Guard Commander: TBA.
Details: TBA.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees:

December 15th, 2024, Sunday (1:00 pm) - Wreaths Across America, Front Royal, VA
Event Level:  National
Host/POC: Col. James Wood II Chapter VASSAR and Boy Scout Troop #4
Location: Prospect Hill Cemetery, Prospect St, Front Royal, VA.
Firing Event: Yes
Event Color Guard Commander: TBA.
Details: TBA.
Virginia SAR Color Guard Attendees: