Honoring Our Veteran Compatriots: A Salute to the Sons of the American Revolution on Veteran’s Day

As we stand on the precipice of another Veteran’s Day, it is only fitting that we take a moment to reflect on the valor and sacrifice of those who have served in our nation’s military. Among the countless men and women who have defended the principles of freedom and democracy, the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) stand out as a group dedicated to preserving and perpetuating the ideals of our nation’s founding.

The Sons of the American Revolution:

Founded in 1889, the Sons of the American Revolution is an organization that honors and preserves the legacy of those who fought for American independence during the Revolutionary War. The SAR not only pays tribute to the heroes of the past but also actively supports and recognizes the service of present-day military personnel, maintaining a strong commitment to patriotism and the principles that have shaped our great nation.

A Legacy of Valor:

The members of the SAR, known as compatriots, share a common ancestry with the brave men and women who fought in the Revolutionary War. By tracing their lineage back to these heroic figures, SAR members honor their forebears and commit themselves to the ideals of liberty and justice.

In recognizing the sacrifices made by the SAR and all veterans, it is important to reflect on the words of those who led our nation to independence. Here are five quotes from some of our founding fathers, including the indomitable George Washington, that speak to the honor and courage of those who have served in the military:

George Washington:

“The willingness with which our young people are likely to serve in any war, no matter how justified, shall be directly proportional to how they perceive the Veterans of earlier wars were treated and appreciated by their nation.”

Nathanael Greene:

“We fight, get beat, rise, and fight again.”

Thomas Paine:

“These are the times that try men’s souls. The summer soldier and the sunshine patriot will, in this crisis, shrink from the service of their country; but he that stands by it now, deserves the love and thanks of man and woman.”

Henry Knox:

“Valor is stability, not of legs and arms, but of courage and the soul.”

Marquis Lafayette:

“The welfare of America is intimately connected with the happiness of all mankind; she will become the honored and safe asylum of virtue, integrity, toleration, equality, and a peaceful liberty.”

On this Veteran’s Day, let us pay homage to the Sons of the American Revolution and all those who have selflessly served our nation. Their commitment to the principles of freedom and justice has forged a legacy that continues to inspire generations. As we reflect on the words of our Revolutionary War leaders, may we remember that the liberties we enjoy today were secured through the unwavering dedication and sacrifice of our veteran compatriots.

*Graphic by Scott M. Helfrich, Ed.D.

Revolutionary War Soldier Memorial Signs Commercial on WJPA

A new radio commercial to advertise the Revolutionary War Solider Memorial Sign program was created and has been airing on WJPA. Click on the player below to listen to the radio ad.

George Washington Chapter Leadership Discuss Memorial Sign Project on WJPA

George Washington Chapter President Kurt Winter and Ron Miller provided a radio interview on WJPA radio with Pete “I Got the Beat” Povich on Tuesday, October 5, 2021 to discuss the chapter’s Revolutionary War Soldier Memorial Sign Project.

Click here to listen to the interview with Kurt and Ron.Download

History Channel “Sons of Liberty” Three Part Miniseries

We are excited to announce the upcoming “Sons of Liberty” show to broadcast on the History Channel starting on Sunday, January 25, 2015 at 9:00 PM. The show will feature the pursuits of the Sons of Liberty, which included Sam Adams, Paul Revere, and John Hancock. The show will also portray John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, George Washington, and Thomas Jefferson. Not since the 2008 HBO “John Adams” series has a comprehensive illustration of Revolutionary War Era historical figures been created.

You can find more information, including interactive activities, at the History Channel’s Sons of Liberty website. 

2014 Whiskey Rebellion Festival

Compatriots of the George Washington Chapter were proud to attend the annual Whiskey Rebellion Festival held on Saturday, July 13, 2014 in Washington, PA. The festival celebrates the heritage and unique character of the region by focusing on the historical significance of the Whiskey Rebellion. The history of the rebellion is unique to western Pennsylvania and primarily Washington County. Community focused entertainment and family activities create a festival that pays tribute to the past, celebrates the present, and looks toward the future.

Pictured above from left to right: Jack Schreiber, Ron Miller, Ron Eisert, Ed Schreiber, and Lindsy Morris.

The Whiskey Rebellion was a tax protest in the early years of the United States. During the presidency of George Washington, farmers who sold their grain in the form of whiskey were required to pay a new tax which they strongly resented. The excise tax was a part of treasury secretary Alexander Hamilton’s program to pay off the national debt.

On the western frontier, which included southwestern Pennsylvania, protesters used violence and intimidation to prevent federal officials from collecting the tax. In one instance, angry mobs tarred and feathered a tax collector, which is re-enacted each year at the Whiskey Rebellion Festival.

In 1794, President Washington responded by calling a militia of 13,000 men to suppress the uprising.  By the time the militia arrived, the rebels had dispersed, and there was no confrontation. The response demonstrated that the federal government had the authority to levy taxes and suppress resistance to its laws.

Chapter President Ron Miller

Compatriots of the George Washington Chapter regularly attend historical events within our region, such as the Whiskey Rebellion Festival, as well as parades and memorial ceremonies in which various chapter members dress in colonial period attire. The chapter is always looking for new members to actively participate in our meetings and activities, which include luncheons, picnics, and time to hear speakers present on topics related to Revolutionary War Era history.

For more information regarding membership, please contact chapter Secretary and Registrar Gary Timmons at g.timmons@comcast.net.