Opening
President Tom Pye called the meeting to order at 7 pm. Chaplain John Galt led the attendees in the invocation and Sergeant-at-Arms Chuck Olson in the Pledge of Allegiance and Pledge to the SAR.
Three compatriots conducted the Presentation of Colors, all were in uniform. Chapter Color Guard Commander Shep Hammack (Washington), Tom Hewett (militia), and Tom Chrisman (militia).
Attendance
There were 20 chapter members, wives and guest at this January meeting.
John & Connie Bivins, Tom Chrisman, Tony Crowe, Bill Floyd Jr., John Galt, Shep Hammack, Don & Marlene Hart, Tom & Brenda Hewett, Tom Hughes, Richard McCrary, Chuck Olson,
Tom Pye, Chuck Rann, Gene Ray, David Welons, dual member Bob Sapp, and guest speaker Robert Jones.
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President Tom Pye and the Mount Vernon Color Guard
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Guest Speaker Robert Jones
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Guest Speaker#Jones
Topic: "The Revolutionary War in Georgia"
VP McCrary introduced our guest speaker Robert Jones, who has written 50+ books on various historical topics, including the Civil War, Revolutionary War, World War I & II, the War of 1812 and ghost towns.
In 2018, Robert received an award from the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution for "Women in American History". (More at Speakers page.)
There was one major battle in Georgia during the Revolutionary War and we don't talk about it often because we lost. It was the seige of Savannah.
The Revolutionary War was actually won in the South, some say in South Carolina. [eg. KIngs Mountain, Battle of Cowpens, Francis Marion.]
Presentation Highlights
- There were no delegates from the South at the 1st Continental Congress.
- Jan 18th 1775 - The provincial Congress in Savannah nominated Lyman Hall from St. John's Parish, the only delegate to attend the 2nd Continental Congress, and the Congress had to deliberate whether he had a vote.
- May 11th 1775, the Sons of Liberty break into a powder magazine in Savannah and seize 600 pounds of powder.
- July 4th 1775 - The 2nd provincial Congress in Savannah decided to boycott British goods and sent delegates to the 2nd Continental Congress.
- March 2nd 1776 - British warships seize merchant ships in Savannah harbor.
- Patriot Colonel Lachlan McIntosh assumed defensive positions in Savannah.
- British Governor James Wright escapes Savannah on a British war ship.
- May 1st 1776 - A provisional government in Augusta forms a "rule", like a Constitution, and Archibald Bulloch elected Commander in Chief of the Militia.
- July 4th 1776 Button Gwinnett signed the Declaration of Independence
- 1776 - Button Gwinnett was elected speaker at the State Constitutional Convention in Savannah.
- 1777 - Georgia Constitution forms counties along the Savannah river and the coast. The rest was Indian land.
- James Oglethorpe was Commander General of Georgia.
- Dec 29 1778 Archibald Campbell occupies Savannah with 2000 troops.
- Georgia Battles - At Vann's Creek, British push aside Patriots, then get slaughtered at Kettle Creek.
- Patriots defeat British at Briar Creek.
- British Governor James Wright returns to Savannah.
- Sept 3rd 1779, Count French D'Estang leads half the French fleet in seige of Savannah, surround the British on 3 sides, but the British won? Uh.
- Casimir Pulaski mortally wounded.
- Sept 14th, 1780 - Elijah Clark attacks British with 600 men in Augusta.
- May 22nd, 1781 - Lighthorse Harry Lee leads Seige of Augusta.
- June 5th, 1781 British surrenders Augusta.
- 1782 British abandoned Savannah.
- 1783 - Georgia assembly elects Lyman Hall the first Governor of Georgia
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VP Richard McCrary
Robert Jones - Author and Guest Speaker
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We enjoyed Robert Jones' spirited and entertaining presentation on the American Revolution. His insite and humor made the talk very enjoyable. Huzzah Robert!
VP McCrary presented guest speaker Robert Jones with a Certificate of Appreciation.
President Tom Pye (L), Speaker Robert Jones and VP Richard McCrary (R)
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Chapter Business
- Treasurer’s Report – Ted Fricke not present
- Registrar’s Report – Registrar Tom Chrisman reported that there are 2 new applications going in for Peter Mehan and David Tharp, plus one transfer in.
- Eagle Scout Awards - Chuck Olson reported we have 5 applications in the pipeline, mainly from Troop 463 in Sandy Springs.
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- Election of 2022 Mount Vernon Officers by the attending members.
There was a motion and a 2nd to approve all the nominated members for office in 2022.
The vote was unanimous to approve all the candidates nominated by the Chapter Nominating Committee.
These chapter members will hold their office from Feb 2022 until Feb 2023 and will have their induction ceremony at the Annual February Banquet.
- President Richard McCrary
- Vice President David Wellons
- Recording Secretary John Galt
- Corresponding Secretary Tom Hughes
- Treasurer Ted Fricke
- Genealogist Tom Chrisman
- Chancellor Tom Pye
- Sergeant-at-Arms Ham McDonald
- Chaplain Don Hart
- Historian Shep Hammack
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President Tom Pye
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Announcements
- January Birthdays: Jimmie Butler, John Galt, Randy Pollard, John Wade, and Larry White.
- Annual Banquet w/the 2022 Officer Installation will be on Saturday Feb 26th 4th Annual Banquet Invitation.
- The next regular Mt. Vernon Meeting will be at Vintage on Tuesday March 8th. Our Guest Speaker will be Sue Verhoef.
SAR National & State Activities
- Annual GA SAR Conference – Friday Jan 28th and Saturday, Jan 29th.
- The Battle of Kettle Creek – Washington, GA Friday Jan 11th and Saturday Jan 12th - The War Hill Ceremony and wreath presentations is on Friday. The Parade & Battle reenactment are on Saturday.
Closing
Sergeant-at-Arms Chuck Olson led the group in the SAR Recessional, and Chaplain John Galt led the attendees in the Benediction.
President Tom Pye adjourned the meeting at 7:59 pm.
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Social Hour
Past president Bill Floyd and his wife Carey hosted our annual banquet meeting at Indian Hills Country Club located at 4001 Clubland Drive, Marietta, Georgia 30068.
The evening began at 6 pm with hors d'oeuvre, beverages, and conversation. The tables were adorned with decorative red, white and blue napkin rings and beautiful floral arrangements.
The decorations were done by Peggy Galt and Montez Hammack. Well done ladies!
Attendance
We had a terrific turnout for the evening.
Eagle Scout Donald John Eberly (in scout uniform), winner of the Chapter’s Arthur M. and Berdena King Eagle Scout competition and his parents Daniel and Mary Catherine were special guest of the chapter.
SAR Atanta District VP Ron Redner (Leah), and Past President of the Georgia SAR Bob Sapp were guests.
Bob Sapp is currently serving as the Georgia Brigade Commander of the Descendants of Valley Forge.
Also attending were Dual members John Wassell (Beth) and PG Larry Guzy (Karin).
Members (and wives) attending were: John Bivins (Connie), Tom Chrisman, Bill Floyd (Carey), Ted Fricke, John Galt (Peggy), Ross Glover (Marie), Shep Hammack (Montez),
Don Hart (Marlene + guest), Tom Hewett (Brenda + guest), Tom Hughes, Dr. Paul Keim (Tami), Richard McCrary (Catherine + 6 guest), Hamilton McDonald (Judith),
Chuck Olson, Randy Pollard, Tom Pye (Leslie), Chuck Rann (Patsy), Gene Ray, and David Wellons (Jane).
Kilts were worn by Chapter members Ham McDonald, Tom Hewett, Ross Glover, Bob Sapp and dual member John Wassell.
John Galt, Ham McDonald and Randy Pollard's formal jackets were also adorned with their medals.
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Bill & Carey Floyd
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Photo by Randy Pollard
Opening & Dinner Hour
President Tom Pye began the dinner hour at 7 pm.
Invocation: Chaplain John Galt
Pledge of Allegiance and Pledge to the SAR: Sergeant at Arms Chuck Olson.
Menu
Click on the Invitation Link above to see the dinner menu.
The Annual Meeting Business
President Tom Pye called the business portion of the evening to order at 8:00 PM.
He called on Ted Fricke and Tom Chrisman to give their Annual reports.
- Treasurer's Report: Ted gave the current Chapter balance.
- Registrar's Report: Tom reported that Larry Edy has been reinstated after a sabbatical due to having to take care of some family matters. He also reported three potential new members are in the membership process. [1]
President Tom Pye recognized Past President Bill Floyd for coordinating the Banquet and Bill further recognized the valuable assistance of Montez Hammack and Peggy Galt for their help with table decorations.
President Pye briefly reviewed the challenges and high points of the past year during his term as President which began on February 9, 2021 during COVID restrictions.
He noted that despite Covid restrictions, we were honored to have ten excellent speakers who provided us with educational and entertaining insights into various topics of interest.
Here are the web admin's review notes from the 2021 Events page.
- Our Chapter held three (3) Zoom meetings in January, February (Annual meeting) and March with three guest speakers.
- We had a hybrid meeting with a guest speaker and limited attendance in April. During that meeting we issued 3 SAR Military Service medals, to Ham McDonal, Joe Rude and Jim Styring.
- We held regular meetings in May, June, Sept, Oct, Nov and December, each with a guest speaker. We can thank VP McCrary for scheduling speakers through the year.
- In May, Chapter member Earl Hewett issued ten (10) SAR Flag Certificates to businesses in his hometown of Mount Pleasant SC. He has since transferred to the SC Society but remains a dual member of our Chapter.
- Our Chapter participated in a Flag Retirement Ceremony in June. Secretary David Wellons collected 49 flags for this event.
- Our Chapter participated in the Dunwoody 4th of July Parade.
- Mount Vernon and the Sandy Springs DAR presented the City of Dunwoody and the Dunwoody Parks and Recreation Department with a check to co-pay for a Flag pole at the Donaldson-Bannister Farm
- We held the Annual Picnic at the Lost Corners Preserve. Ted Fricke's friend "The Barbeque Guy" served us delicious BBQ.
- In August, our server friend Kaitlin from Vintage Pizzeria moved to Florida. We miss her.
- In August, we lost our dear Joyce Chrisman to Covid.
- In September, President Pye presented Shep Hammack with the SAR National Gold Roger Sherman Medal for his outstanding contribution to the National SAR Society as DAR Liaison.
- On November 11th, Veterans Day, we (Mount Vernon) and the Sandy Springs DAR dedicated the Flag Pole we co-sponsored at Donaldson-Bannister Farm in Dunwoody. Special recognition to Shep Hammack for his effort.
- Mount Vernon contributed wreaths to and participated in Wreaths Across America in December.
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Announcements
- February Birthdays: Tony Crowe, Charles & Cason Hillard, Richard McCrary, Owen Robbins, Joe Rude, David Smith, Gabriel & Michael Worchol
- President Pye noted with regret that Bill Ramsaur of the Marshes of Glen Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution in Brunswick, Georgia died on February 19, 2022.
Bill established Frederica Patriots Day, and the Fort Morris and the Come and Take It Celebration and worked diligently for the SAR until his passing.
- Shep Hammack update the status of Compatriot Tom Owens who remains hospitalized at Northside Hospital with serious illness although he has improved significantly over the past couple of weeks.
Shep asked that members send cards to him, and he will take them to Tom Owens. Our Corresponding Secretary sent out Shep's address on 3/2/22.
- Shep also regretfully notified us of the passing of Compatriot Jim Spencer on February 24, 2022. His memorial service will be held at Holy Innocents Episcopal Church in Sandy Springs, Georgia on March 5, 2022.
Our Corresponding Secretary sent out the address for sympathy cards on 3/2/22.
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The Mount Vernon Eagle Scout Award
Each year, the National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution conducts the SAR's Arthur M. and Berdena King Eagle Scout Contest.
The competition is open to all Eagle Scouts who are currently registered in an active unit and have not reached their 19th birthday during the year of application.
Competition begins at the local Chapter level and proceeds to the state and national level, with the top prize at the National level being a $10,000 college scholarship.
Compatriot Chuck Olson is the Mount Vernon Scouting Chairman and is also the leader of Troop 463 at Mt. Vernon Methodist Church.
He presented this years Chapter winner of the Arthur M. and Berdena King Competition, Eagle Scout Donald John Eberly with an Eagle Scout patch and a monetary recognition gift.
Eagle Scout Donald John Eberly is the son of Daniel Lee and Mary Catherine Eberly, who were also present at the presentation.
Along the trail to Eagle, Donald has earned 32 merit badges, giving him a bronze and gold palm for his Eagle Scout Award, and was awarded the rank of Eagle Scout in 2021 at the age of 16.
He remains an active member of Troop 463 and is working on earning a few more merit bages which will make him the first Eagle Scout in his troup to earn bronze, gold and silver palms
plus a second bronze palm since 2009.
Donald is in the 11th grade at Ben Franklin Academy where he has a GPA of 3.9.
He and his family are members of Saint Judes Roman Catholic Church in Sandy Springs.
We congratulate Eagle Scout Eberly for his achievements.
President Tom Pye, Donald Eberly and Scout Chairman Chuck Olson
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The Eberly Family
Larger Image
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2022 Chapter and Member Awards
Past President Shep Hammack, Chairman of Awards Committee and President Tom Pye presented awards to outgoing officers for faithfully performing their duties during the past year.
- Chapter Awards: Streamers for Battle of Kettle Creek attendance and support; Membership Award for 2021 and Distinguished Chapter Award for 2021
- First Lady of Mt. Vernon - Leslie Pye: Lydia Darragh Award
- Vice President - Richard McCrary: Distinguished Service Medal
- Recording Secretary - David Wellons: Bronze Roger Sherman Medal
- Treasurer - Ted Fricke: Bronze Roger Sherman Medal
- Chaplain - John Galt: Bronze Roger Sherman Medal
- Sergeant-at-Arms - Chuck Olson: Certificate of Appreciation
- Photographer - Tom Hughes: Certificate of Appreciation
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2022 Chapter Officers
Past President General of the SAR Larry Guzy inducted 2022 Mount Vernon Chapter Officers for 2022.
(L to R taking oath) VP David Wellons, Secretary John Galt, Corresponding Secretary Tom Hughes, Treasurer Ted Fricke, Chancellor Tom Pye, Registrar Tom Chrisman, Sergeant at Arms Ham McDonald, Historian Shep Hammack, and Chaplain Don Hart. (Photo by Tom Hughes)
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Richard McCrary becoming Mount Vernon's 6th Chapter President.
(L to R) PG Larry Guzy and Richard McCrary (Photo by Tom Hughes)
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Recognition
Past President Tom Pye received a Certificate of Appreciation for his leadership in 2021. He also received his Past President ribbon and Insignia Medal for his ribbon. (Photo by Tom Hughes)
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Presentation of New Chapter Flag
Shep and Montez Hammack presented a new Chapter flag that memorializes the 250th Year Anniversary of our Nation. (Photo by Tom Hughes)
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Links to all photos are at the top of this posting.
Closing
Recessional: The SAR recessional was led by Sergeant at Arms Ham McDonald
Benediction: The benediction was given by Chaplain Don Hart
Adjournment: The Annual Meeting was adjourned at 9:05 p.m. by President Richard McCrary
[1] Web admin's note: We had 2 transfers (William (Bill) Murray, Philip William Catalano Jr.), added 2 dual members (Bill Armstrong & Peter Stoddard), and X new members in 2021 (Sunny Lee, Anthony Olson, William Olson, Erik Olson, Scott K. Olson, Ed Upchurch, Philip William Catalano III, Gary Alan Fudge, Summie Major Thomas III - new/immediate transfer out.
Source: http://mountvernonsar.org/Events/2021/eventArchives_2021.htm)
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Meeting Opening
President Richard McCrary began the meeting at 7 pm.
Invocation: Chaplain Don Hart
Pledge of Allegiance and Pledge to the SAR: Richard McCrary
Color Guard Commander Shep Hammack (in uniform) and Compatriot Thomas Hewett (in uniform) presented the colors.
Attendance
A total of 22 individuals were present at the meeting, including 14 members, our guest Speaker Sue Verhoef, six spouses, and pending member Dave Tharp.
Members present were: Richard Anderson, Tony Crowe, Treasurer Ted Fricke, Recording VP John Galt, Shep Hammack (in uniform), Chaplain Don Hart, Thomas Hewett (in uniform), Corresponding Secretary Thomas Hughes, Charles "Sunny" Lee, President Richard McCrary, Cecil Palmer, Chancellor Tom Pye, Gene Ray, Vice President David Wellons.
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Guest Speaker: Sue VerHoef
Topic: This Land is Whose Land -
Using Land Records to Trace Your Family History
Chapter Vice President David Wellons introduced our guest speaker, Sue VerHoef. Sue is Director of Oral History and Genealogy at the Atlanta History Center where she has worked since 2008.
She manages the Center's oral history initiatives including the Veterans History Project which currently has over 800 oral history interviews of veterans who served from Work War II through the
Global War on Terror. She is curator of More Than Self: Living the Vietnam War, an exhibition of oral histories, photographs, documents and artifacts from Vietnam veteran and civilians who
served in their support. The exhibit is available online. In 2015, The National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences (NATAS) Southeast Chapter awarded her an Emmy for her contribution
in the development of: 37 Weeks: Sherman on the March, which aired on Georgia Public Broadcasting. Sue’s presentation entitled "This Land is Whose Land?" provided valuable insights and
tips on researching early land records for genealogical information.
Chapter Vice President David Wellons presented Sue VerHoef with a certificate of appreciation for her presentation.
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Chapter Business
- See the Meeting Minutes (linked above).
- The next Mount Vernon Meeting is Tuesday April 12th at Vintage Pizza. The Guest Speaker is Terry Manning, whose topic will be "25 Things You Probably Didn't Know about George Washington"
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Announcements
- March Birthday's: Cooper Hillard, Dan Morgan, Cecil Palmer, Gene Ray
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Closing
Recessional: The SAR recessional was led by President Richard McCrary
Benediction: The Benediction was given by Chaplain Don Hart
Adjournment: The March Meeting was adjourned at 7:56 p.m. by President Richard McCrary
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Meeting Opening
- The meeting was held in person at Vintage Pizzeria, 5510 Chamblee Dunwoody Road, Dunwoody, GA
- President Richard McCrary began the meeting at 7 pm.
- Invocation: Chaplain Don Hart
- Pledge of Allegiance and Pledge to the SAR: Sergeant at Arms Hamilton McDonald
- Color Guard Commander Shep Hammack (uniform), Compatriots Terry Manning (uniform), John Wassel (militia) and Tom Chrisman (militia) presented the colors.
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Attendance
The role call included 16 chapter members (Richard Anderson, John Bivins, III, Tom Chrisman (in uniform), Tony Crowe, Ted Fricke, John Galt, Shep Hammack (in uniform), Don Hart,
Thomas Hewett (in uniform), Thomas Hughes, Charles "Sunny" Lee, Richard McCrary, Hamilton McDonald, Tom Pye, Gene Ray, and David Wellons) and 2 dual members (PG Larry Guzy and John Wassell).
Prospective members attending: Dave Tharp, Rick Leake, Virgil Flanders, and Terry Morris. Guest were spouses, Gregory Smith and our Guest Speaker Terry Manning.
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Guest Speaker: Terry Manning
Topic: 25 Things You Probably Didn't Know About George Washington
Guest Speaker: Chapter Vice President David Wellons introduced our guest speaker, fellow SAR Compatriot Terry Manning.
He delivered an insightful and entertaining presentation entitled "Twenty-five Things You Probably Didn’t Know About George
Washington."
Terry talked about George Washington the humorist, the gourmet, the distiller, the tax dodger, and many more revelations.
He is a Past President of the Georgia Society of the Sons of the American Revolution as well as the Atlanta
Chapter SAR and the Button Gwinnett Chapter SAR.
Terry is a Graduate of Ohio State University and is
a Navy veteran. He retired from the Department of Veterans Affairs where he served as Auditor-in-Charge
for the Office of the Inspector General.
When he's not speaking to other SAR chapters, Terry’s hobby is garden railroading.
Speaker Appreciation
Chapter Vice President David Wellons presented Terry Manning with a certificate of appreciation for his presentation.
See Photo
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Chapter Business and Announcements
- The Chapter donated $500 towards the National SAR convention to be held in Savannah, Georgia
- April Birthdays: Richard Anderson, Warren McPhillips, Bill Scurry Jr., Ben Tingle.
- We do not have the Birthdays for these members: Philip Catalano (Jr or III), Larry Eddy, Michael Long, Bill Murray IV, Anthony, Scott, or William Olson, Ed Upchurch. eMail Birthday Info
- Ted Fricke reported that several members also contributed to the National SAR convention to be held in Savannah, Georgia in July. Ted sent a check for an additional $600 of member designated gifts to the Georgia SAR.
- Tom Chrisman reported that David Tharpe’s application is ready to be sent forward and Peter Meehan’s application is in process. We have several guests present who have expressed interest in joining SAR.
- The next Mount Vernon Meeting is Tuesday May 10th at Vintage Pizza. The Guest Speaker is Peter Stoddard, whose topic will be “Lewis Grizzard: The Dawg that Did Not Hunt”.
- See the Meeting Minutes (linked above) for all chapter business and noted SAR activities
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Closing
- Recessional: The SAR recessional was led by Sergeant at Arms Hamilton McDonald
- Benediction: The Benediction was given by Chaplain Don Hart
- Adjournment: The March Meeting was adjourned at 7:48 p.m. by President Richard McCrary
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Meeting Opening
- The meeting was held in person at Vintage Pizzeria, 5510 Chamblee Dunwoody Road, Dunwoody, GA
- President Richard McCrary began the meeting at 7 pm.
- Invocation: Rev. Bill Floyd
- Pledge of Allegiance and Pledge to the SAR: Sgt at Arms Ham McDonald
- Color Guard Commander Shep Hammack, Bill Floyd, and Tom Hewett presented the colors in uniform, along with Tom Chrisman.
29 Attended the Meeting
There were 16 members, 12 non members including spouses,
and Guest Speaker Peter Stoddard.
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The members present (with guest/spouse names) were: Bill Brannen (Maribeth), Tom Chrisman, Tony Crowe (Guest Ivan Killen, Jack Dyer (guests Rick and Becky Leake), Ted Fricke, Ross Glover, Jr., Shep Hammack (Montez), Tom Hewitt (Brenda), Tom Hughes, Sunny Lee, Richard McCrary (Catherine), Ham McDonald (Judy), Cecil Palmer (Georgia Sanders), Tom Pye, Gene Ray, David Wellons (Jane).
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Guest Speaker: Peter Stoddard
Peter Stoddard is a Public Speaker, an Author, Producer & PR Specialist and is a former dual member of the Mount Vernon Chapter in 2021.
Biography - Click Here
Topic: 'SAR Eligible Lewis Grizzard, Who Owned Two Houses in Sandy Springs'
Synopsis of presentation here.
- Book - "Lewis Grizzard: The Dawg That Did Not Hunt"
- The Lewis Grizzard Museum
- Copyrights? Nobody knows.
- Many Wives - Love of Sports - Vince Dooley - Lots of Friends - Golf
- The Lewis Grizzard Books: 20 were NYT Best Sellers
- Health Issues - Pearly Gates
- Slideshow - Click Here
Speaker Appreciation
Chapter Vice President David Wellons presented Peter Stoddard with a Certificate of Appreciation for his presentation.
See Larger Photo |
See Larger Photo 2
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Auction of Donated Books
Bill and Maribeth Brannen, and Peter Stoddard, donated books and a framed cartoon, all about or written by Lewis Grizzard for auctioning off, with the proceeds going to the Mount Vernon Chapter bank account. This was a most generous gesture by the Brannens and Peter Stoddard. The total collected was $68.00.
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Chapter Business and Announcements
- May Birthdays: Bill Brannen, Dr. Richard Keim, Tom Owens, Jim Styring.
We do not have Birthdays on the member spreadsheet for the following: Philip Catalano (Jr or III), Larry Eddy, Michael Long, Bill Murray IV, Anthony, Scott, or William Olson, Ed Upchurch. To update, use Contact link on Home page.
- Treasurer’s Report: Treasurer Ted Fricke updated us on the bank balance and other financial information. Ted also reported that members personally donated $800 total to help defray the costs of the upcoming SAR National Conference in Savannah July 10-14, 2022.
Donations were given by John Galt, Chuck Rann, Shep Hammack, Tom Pye, Bill Floyd, Richard McCrary, Tom Hughes, and Ted Fricke.
All donations were met with a matching donation by an anonymous donor.
- Registrar’s Report: Registrar Tom Chrisman reported that there are 2 new applications pending submission and 2 more being prepped for submission.
- Americanism Report - Please advise VP David Wellons of any events that generates points for attending an SAR/patriotic/National holiday event.
- Memorial Day at Roswell Remembers Celebration - Roswell City Hall , Monday May 30th.
- Dunwoody 4th of July Parade - Monday, July 4th. We plan to have a float, with details via eMail.
- Annual Chapter Picnic - Saturday July 16th from 5:30 to 8:30 pm. Information to follow via eMail.
- The next Mount Vernon Meeting is Tuesday June 14th at Vintage Pizza and our guest speaker will be Martin Howley, who will speak on "The Battle of Monmouth, Part Two."
- National and State SAR Activities - See the GA Hornet's Nest Newsletter & our Chapter website for notifications.
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Closing
- Recessional: The SAR recessional was led by Sergeant at Arms Ham McDonald
- Benediction: The Benediction was given by Rev. Bill Floyd
- Adjournment: The March Meeting was adjourned at 8:10 p.m. by President Richard McCrary
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Meeting Opening - Flag Day
- Location: Vintage Pizzeria, 5510 Chamblee Dunwoody Road, Dunwoody, GA.
- This meeting of the Mount Vernon Chapter Georgia Society Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) was called to order by Chapter President Richard McCrary at 7:00 p.m.
- The invocation was given by the Chaplain, Don Hart
- The Pledge of Allegiance and Pledge to the SAR was led by Sergeant at Arms Hamilton McDonald.
- Color Guard Commander Shep Hammack, Rev. Bill Floyd, VP David Wellons (uniform), and Tom Hewett (militia) presented the colors.
34 Attended the Meeting
A total of 34 individuals were present at the meeting, including 21 chapter members, Guest Speaker Martin Howley, 10 spouses / family members, and 3 prospective members:
Dave Tharp, Sam Alston and Terry Morris (who just submitted his application for membership).
Members present were: Richard Anderson, John Dyer, Past Bill Floyd, Treasurer Ted Fricke, Recording VP John Galt, Ross Glover, Shep Hammack, Chaplain Don Hart, Thomas Hewett (in uniform),
Corresponding Secretary Thomas Hughes, Charles "Sunny" Lee, Mike Long, President Richard McCrary, Sergeant at Arms Hamilton McDonald, Warren McPhillips, Chancellor Tom Pye, Chuck Rann,
Gene Ray, Joe Rude, Vice President David Wellons, as well as dual member and past President General of the Sons of the American Revolution Larry Guzy.
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VIDEO: Valley Forge in 4 Minutes
VIDEO: The Battle of Brandywine in 4 Minutes
VIDEO: Battle of Monmouth | Battlefield Detectives
See disclaimer below regarding external links.
George Washington.jpg
Baron Friedrich Wilhelm Augustus von Steuben
Painting by Charles Willson Peale dated 1780
Marquis_de_Lafayette
Nathanael Greene
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Guest Speaker: Martin Howley Biography - Click Here
Chapter Vice President David Wellons introduced our guest speaker, Martin Howley, a retired Army Officer from Fayetteville, Georgia.
His topic and presentation were a very appropriate way to celebrate the 247th anniversary of the United States Army and Flag Day.
This time he continued his presentation about the Battle of Monmouth, which was considered the largest battle of the Revolutionary War.
The battle was fought near Monmouth Court House (modern-day Freehold Township, New Jersey) on June 28, 1778, during the American Revolutionary War.
In his last visit at our June 8, 2021 meeting, he spoke about the 'Prelude to the Battle of Monmouth - Leading to June 28, 1778'.
Now he returned for part two.
'The Battle of Monmouth - Part Two'
His presentation provided a keen insight into the troop strengths and challenges that this battle presented to 46 year old General George Washington and the Continental Army.
Washington had just left another deadly winter at Valley Forge, but this time his troops had been well trained in combat and artillery by a Prussian military expert named
Baron Friedrich Wilhelm Augustus von Steuben.
The newly formed American government had been pushed out of Philadelphia by the British and was at Yorktown (now York PA).
Washington wanted a much needed victory after a defeat at Brandywine, where he attempted to retake Philadelphia from the British on September 11, 1777.
In early 1778, the British learned that the French were coming to help the Americans.
So when word came that 48 year old British Lieutenant General Sir Henry Clinton was ordered to move his troops out of Philadelphia to Sandy Hook New Jersey, Washington planned an attack.
Clinton was to march north through New Jersey in the June heat, where his troops were to cross the Verrazano straits by ship to join their main forces in New York.
The British left Philadelphia on June 18 and marched through Mount Holly and Bordentown. They reached Monmouth County Court House in the town of Freehold on June 26, 1778 and stopped for a day to rest.
Washington faced more than the experienced British forces. He had key subordinate leaders who failed to rise to the challenge of fighting a highly trained enemy of equal manpower.
His second in command was General Charles Lee, who thought he should have been appointed leader of the Continental forces by Congress. When given several thousand troops to mount an attack
on the trailing British forces, Lee told his men to retreat when the British first counter attacked. Washington, who was known to control his temper, exploded at Lee and relieved him of his command.
Washington then rode on horseback back and forth to rally the troops into attacking. It is said that one of his horses died from exhaustion. Lee’s men were turned over to General “Mad”
Anthony Wayne,
who manned Major General Marquis de Lafayette’s troops on the front. They faced General Charles Lord Cornwallis, who commanded the rear elements of Clinton’s army. On their right flank and
supported by American artillery raining enfilading fire on the British, Nathanael Greene’s men stiffened their line and repulsed Cornwallis and his troops. Washington committed all of his forces into this
location for battle. The fighting see-sawed back and forth under the brutal June sun.
Maps
The armies of the Americans and the British were about even. The British attacked over and over but the Americans repelled them each time. They had not seen this in the Americans before Monmouth.
The battle began in the morning and went on through the day until dusk. The British lit many fires in their camps that night and the Americans waited for the next day's battle. However, in the morning they
found that the British had pulled out and resumed their march north to Sandy Hook.
There were officially 600 American casualties and 700 British casualties and the Americans claimed a victory but the British defined it as a draw.
It was the last major battle of the northern theater, and proved the benefits of the Continental Army’s encampment at Valley Forge. The continual training and drilling during the encampment significantly
improved morale and discipline. It also allowed Washington to lead an effective force against British regulars.
Points of Interest
- On Sunday, June 28, 1778, an American army of about 14,500, including about 1,000 militia, engaged a British army of about 21,000, including 4,100 Hessians (German mercenaries)
and 2,100 Loyalists (Americans loyal to the British crown) in the longest one-day battle of the Revolutionary War, the Battle of Monmouth.
- Most of the casualties on both sides were from excessive heat that day... the mid 90's.
- General Charles Lee had been captured by the British earlier in 1776, and had spent two years in house arrest in Boston. He was released in a prisoner exchange back to the Americans and
Washington accepted him as his second in command. Recently, a memoir paper was discovered in Boston, that showed Lee had outlined the defeat of the Continental Army to the British.
So was his release and retreat intentional?
- Benjamin Franklin had secured finances from the French but they finally recognized that the Americans knew how to fight and joined into the war against the British.
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Listen to Martin's talk on Monmouth -
Audio File (full window) |
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Speaker Appreciation
We thank Martin Howley coming to our chapter meeting and explaining this important Battle of the American Revolution.
His knowledge & enthusiasm are appreciated.
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Martin Howley and VP David Wellons
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Chapter Business and Announcements
- Compatriot Birthdays:
- June - Michael Butler, Michael Long, Chuck Rann.
- July - James Butler, James Flanagin, Graham Purkerson, Ted Fricke, Tom Hayes.
- August - Steven Colwell, Jack Dyer, Chip Floyd.
- We do not have Birthdays on the member spreadsheet for the following:
Philip Catalano (Jr or III), Larry Eddy, Bill Murray IV, Anthony, Scott, or William Olson, Ed Upchurch. To update, use Contact link on Home page.
- Treasurer’s Report: Ted Fricke gave the balance in our chapter account.
- Registrar’s Report: Tom Chrisman reported 4 applications in progress at the June 10th BOM meeting.
- Americanism Report: Please eMail VP David Wellons with your participation in events.
- Color Guard for Patriotic Concert: At the Johnson Ferry Baptist Church in Marietta on July 1 & 2 at 7 pm. The concert is free and the public is invited. Color Guard members David Wellons, Bill Floyd and Tom Chrisman will carry the colors for the event.
- Dunwoody 4th of July Parade - Monday, July 4th. Shep reported a hitch in plans and is securing a new float and towing vehicle for the parade.
- Annual Chapter Picnic - The date of this event was changed by a vote at the meeting to Saturday July 30th. Ted Fricke to contact our food vendor. Information to follow via eMail.
- The next regular Mount Vernon Meeting is Tuesday September 13th at Vintage Pizza.
- National and State SAR Activities - See the GA Hornet's Nest Newsletter for notifications.
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Closing
- Recessional: The SAR recessional was led by Sergeant at Arms Ham McDonald
- Benediction: The Benediction was given by Don Hart
- Adjournment: The March Meeting was adjourned at 8:12 p.m. by President Richard McCrary
Disclaimer:
Information contained in Links not associated with the Mount Vernon Chapter are provided for informational purposes only, and there is no express or implied endorsement
or recommendation by the Mount Vernon Chapter or the Sons of the American Revolution of any products or information so reflected.
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Title: Washington Rallying the Troops at Monmouth
Painting depicts George Washington at the 1778 Battle of Monmouth.
Original artwork: 23 × 13 ft between circa 1851 and 1854. Exhibited: 1854.
Location: Doe Memorial Library
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David Wellons |
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VIDEO: Color Guard at Annual American Celebration
This video was recorded by Kaitlyn Wellons.
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Mount Vernon Proudly Carries the Colors
Members of the Mount Vernon Color Guard carried the colors at the annual Johnson Ferry Baptist Church American Celebration on Friday and Saturday July 1st and 2nd.
The ceremony was held at the East Cobb church at 7 pm each night and included a full choir and orchestra. It was an exhilarating event of patriotism.
This concert has been performed for the past 27 years at the Church, with the exception of 2020 and 2021 due to COVID-19 restrictions.
Our Chapter Color Guard members included past Chapter President Bill Floyd, Chapter Geneologist & Registrar Tom Chrisman, and current Chapter Vice President David Wellons,
all performing the ceremony in full Revolutionary War uniforms. The three flags that were carried were, the American Flag, the Hopkinson Flag, and the Georgia State Flag.
Read about America's First Flag Here
Each year, the concert has a theme, with this year's theme - a reading of the entire Declaration of Independence. It was divided into four parts interspersed with
patriotic choir & orchestra music, and a commentary from a history buff & teacher at the church.
The music ministry had searched in several of the past years for a color guard for this concert without finding one. Chapter VP David Wellons, a church and orchestra member, was able to
offer our Chapter services for this year when the need was made known. It was the first time in 27 years the event had a color guard to present the colors. The accompanying video (link to left)
shows how our proud and patriotic color guard carried the colors during the ceremony.
A notice was posted on the video screens in the church asking everyone to rise in the beginning for the presentation of the colors, the singing of the National Anthem, and then to remain
standing in silence as the colors retreated. (Not blocking the choir.)
The feedback was outstanding from all comments, and in respect for the flag, the retreat of the colors was accomplished in total silence by the audience.
Bill Floyd did an amazing job as Color Guard Commander for the Johnson Ferry Baptist American Celebration last weekend.
He made it look seamless and hit the timing marks perfectly both nights.
His decision to place Tom in the middle in his militia uniform between the uniformed members gave a perfect balance to the sight picture seen by the audience.
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Photos are by Jane Wellons and fellow church members.
(L to R) Bill Floyd, Tom Chrisman, David Wellons |
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The Parade
Once again our Mount Vernon chapter participated in the annual Dunwoody 4th of July Parade.
It is the largest 4th of July Parade in Georgia, according to the Dunwoody Homeowners Association.
Members from the SAR and the DAR wanting to participate were to meet at Shep Hammack's home before the parade to help with finishing touches.
The float is a trailer that is loaned to both the Piedmont chapter and Mount Vernon, with the DAR also sharing in the event.
Atlanta SAR District VP Ron Redner drove the float in the parade.
The parade started at 9 am from the All Saints Catholic Church off Mount Vernon Road.
DAR member Catherine Jimenez was gracious enough to share photos from this years 4th of July Parade.
See link above.
SAR members, Tom Pye, current President Richard McCrary, Ted Fricke, Shep Hammack and
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Bill Floyd & Chuck Olson also represented the Mount Vernon chapter.
(not in photo)
Shep Hammack, Bill Floyd dressed in uniform, with Randy Pollard in a Militia uniform.
Chuck Olson dressed in his Army Reserve uniform.
Randy Pollard and Bill Floyd |
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Historic Savannah Georgia
The City of Savannah was the site of the 2022 National SAR Congress with the Hyatt Regency Riverfront Hotel selected as the meeting place.
The hotel was located downtown on Bay Street, with walking access to River Street and the cobblestoned waterfront just steps away from
monuments, shops, local restaurants, and live music. The hotel overlooked the Savannah River, which had frequent ships traversing between the
Atlantic Ocean and the docks beyond the bridge.
For most, Congress began on Sunday and lasted thru Friday. There were two evening dinners, district meetings and several days of official business.
C. Bruce Pickette was elected President General of the SAR, along with Georgia's own Allen Greenly elected as Registrar General.
We congratulate Allen, who is a member of the Robert Forsyth Chapter in Cumming, GA.
Attending from the Mount Vernon Chapter were: Shep Hammack, Bill and Carey Floyd, Richard McCrary, Tom and Brenda Hewett,
Chuck and Patsy Rann, and Ross and Marie Glover.
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President General
C. Bruce Pickette
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Container ships went by on every high tide.
Dining Around Savannah
"The Coastal Empire" around Savannah is known for its seafood and the group from Mount Vernon took advantage of the opportunity,
enjoying several meals at restaurants around town. Here is the list:
Tubby's on Riverstreet, Spanky's on Riverstreet, Paula Deen's Creek House, Crab Shack (on Tybee), Tubby's at Thunderbolt, and Fiddler's on Riverstreet.
Bill Floyd enjoyed meeting one of the restaurant owners.
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SAR Bench Program (PDF)
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Short Unveiling Video
The British Evacuate Savannah, Georgia
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The Johnson Square SAR Bench Dedication
Georgia SAR Members and Chapters sponsored a stone bench that now rest in historic Johnson Square in downtown Savannah.
It will be a reminder that patriots fought in and around Savannah, and that General George Washington attended the church adjacent to where
the bench is located.
Johnson Square was named for Governor Robert Johnson of South Carolina, who helped establish the State of Georgia, and in
1776. Historical note: There was a reading of the Declaration of Independence at this square.
Mount Vernon chapter member Tom Hewett was part of the Color Guard, and past chapter President and Georgia Chaplin
Bill Floyd gave the recessional.
As part of the SAR's America 250 Programs, the Georgia Society had the bench inscribed on the top with
"Celebrating 250 years of American freedom 1776 - 2026."
VIDEO: SAR Bench Commemoration in Johnson Square - by Rick Reese
Bench Ceremony |
Color Guard 1 |
Color Guard 2
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"During the 132nd NSSAR Congress held in Savannah, GA, an SAR Bench commemorating the 250th Anniversary of the founding of the United States of America
was dedicated in historic Johnson Square in downtown Savannah on July 13, 2022. In addition to Georgia Society SAR and NSSAR leadership, the ceremony featured
Savannah Mayor the Honorable Van R. Johnson and District two Alderman Detric Leggett, as well as members of the GA and NSSAR Color Guard. Other SAR and DAR
members gathered to witness the ceremony despite the rainy weather.
~ Rick Reese Jr., Electronic Communications Committee Chairman"
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Georgia SAR President Joe Vancura
We are deeply saddened at the news that SAR President Joe Vancura passed away on the Sunday evening following the SAR Congress.
News from past President General Larry Guzy came at 7:42 pm that Joe was found unresponsive and was taken to Kennestone Hospital in Marietta.
Then shortly afterwards, Larry sent out an eMail that Joe was pronounced at the hospital, with the cause of death being unknown at this time.
This news crushed everyone who had seen and talked to Joe at the Annual Congress.
His passing is a tragedy for the Georgia Society and he will be missed.
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