Memorial Day Observance

We are posting this a little late, but we wanted to make you all aware that even though the COVID pandemic cancelled nearly all of our Memorial Day events that the Nebraska SAR participates in, we were still able to observe the holiday and honor our veterans.  Compatriots Shawn Stoner and John Braisted, both from the Lincoln Chapter, stood guard, in the Capitol Rotunda, over a candle that was lit by a Gold Star Family from Gretna, NE.  Many veterans groups were participants in this ceremony, that lasted throughout the day, and we were glad that our Society was represented so well by our two members and that we were still able to honor our fallen veterans and ancestors.

Patriot Biographies

Nebraska SAR Compatriots,

We are still looking for biographies on many of your Patriot Ancestors.  Please write up a short history of your Patriot and submit them to either Compatriot Paul Burright, or Compatriot Bill Webb, of the Omaha Chapter.  Their emails are posted in your quarterly newsletters.  They are leading this effort to get the records and histories of our Patriots into the national Patriot Research System, and linked to you on the website.  Thank you for your help with this important project!

Omaha Chapter installs new Officers

At the 14 Jan 2020 meeting of the Omaha Chapter, NESSAR President, Shawn Stoner, presided over the installation of the 2020-2021 Omaha Chapter Officers.  Past Chapter President, Merle McAlevy was also presented his Past President Pin and Certificate for his service as Chapter President, 2016-2017.

Omaha Chapter – 10 Sep 2019

The Omaha Chapter held its meeting on Tuesday, 10 Sep 2019, at Gorat’s Steakhouse in Omaha.  Compatriots Jim Sly and David Kentsmith were both presented their certificates for inclusion into the SAR Military Service Veterans Corps, for their past service in the armed forces. 

The Chapter also inducted 3 new members into the Society.  Steve Bigelow, Dallas Burright, and Shade Jones.  All 3 also mustered their Patriots into the Chapter Muster Log.  Photo would not upload, so it will be included in the newsletter. 

 

Lincoln Meeting Sep 6, 2019

Corrected minutes for the August 2019 meeting have been posted.  The new minutes for the September 2019 meeting have been posted on the Lincoln Chapter Minutes pages.

Friday morning, Sep 6, 2019 Compatriot Terry Springer was awarded the War Service Medal for this service in the Vietnam War.  Presenting the award and medal was his broth-in-law, Vice-President John Braisted.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Compatriot Springer with sister, Evelyn Springer and Vice-President John Braisted.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Champion Spalding Chase Grave Marking

You are invited to join the Nebraska SAR on August 10, 2019 for a grave marking for our State Society’s First President, Champion Spalding Chase. The event is to honor him, his memory and his service to the SAR. President Chase, was a mayor of Omaha serving 7 years, a retired Lieutenant Colonel of the U.S. Army (1862-1866), first Attorney General of the State of Nebraska, and University of Nebraska Regent for 6 years.

The ceremony will take place at Prospect Hill Cemetery, Omaha, NE on August 10, 2019 at 10 a.m. Congressman Hal Daub will be the featured speaker at this event. Nebraska SAR Color Guard will present the colors.

Please bring a chair. Limited shade will be available but we are hoping for a cool morning. There will be a small reception following.

Please feel free to share this event with as many of your family and friends as you wish.

Memorial Day

Members of the Nebraska SAR Color Guard participated in the Memorial Day Ceremony at Omaha National Cemetery. It was our largest participation to date, with 5 members of the CG present. State CG Commander, Chad Sherrets; Omaha Captain, Paul Burright; Omaha Chapter President, Tom Upton; Omaha Compatriot, Jim Sly; and Lincoln Captain and State Society President, Shawn Stoner. It was a beautiful day, and we were honored to take part in posting the colors alongside the Millard South JROTC Color Guard, representing our veterans from our earliest conflict to the present.

Purple Heart Honor Flight

On Friday night, 24 May 2019, the Nebraska SAR Color Guard, participated in its first ever Honor Flight Ceremony.  State Society President and Lincoln CG Captain, Shawn Stoner, Omaha CG Captain, Paul Burright, Omaha Compatriot Mel Burright, and Omaha Compatriot Jim Sly, all participated.

VIP’s in attendance included, Omaha Mayor Jean Stothert, Nebraska Governor Pete Ricketts, Nebraska Senator Deb Fischer, and Nebraska Congressman Don Bacon.  All the VIP’s rode at the front of the parade, which extended up 10th St. in downtown Omaha, in restored WWII era jeeps.  There were the VFW color guards, as well as the OPD bagpipe and drum corps, as well as other organizations that participated.  It was a long night, but great ceremony, to honor these purple heart veterans and gold star families, and we are excited that the Nebraska SAR was able to be a part of it. 

Newsletters

The latest editions of your Society newsletters are posted on the website. 

Your Nebraska SAR Newsletter, The Husker Patriot, can be found on the link on the home page of the website.

The Omaha Chapter Newsletter, The Quill & Parchment, can be found on the link on the Omaha Chapter webpage of the State website.

Wreaths Across America

Omaha Chapter Compatriots, Ryan Fuller, Ben Harvey, Mel Burright, and Paul Burright, volunteered their services to be part of the crew for Wreaths Across America at the Omaha National Cemetery on 15 Dec 2018.  They helped to direct and seat family members of those veterans that are buried at the cemetery, so that they would have first access to a wreath to lay on their loved ones grave site.

 

After the ceremony was complete and their duties were finished, all 4 Compatriots honored a veteran by laying wreaths of their own on a headstone and reciting the veteran’s name.  The Omaha National Cemetery gave a conservative estimate of 2000 participants at this year’s event.

 

It was an honor to be a part of the event and we hope to get more Compatriots and the Color Guard involved next year!!

Husker Patriot 2018

Compatriots,

The latest issues of “The Husker Patriot” have been uploaded to the website links.

If you would like your editions of “The Husker Patriot” emailed to you, in color, instead of in Black and White hard copies, delivered by snail mail, please let the editors know so we can add you to the list of email recipients. We would love to get more of you on email editions!

Omaha Chapter Patriot Biographies

The Omaha Chapter page is growing!
We have added an Omaha Chapter Patriot Biographies page. Check it out at www.nessar.org/omaha-chapter.

If your Patriot does not have a biography linked to him, we either did not have a copy of the bio, or one has never been submitted. Submit a small bio/article for your Patriot Ancestor so we can have all of our Patriot’s histories told for our Chapter and others can learn about your heritage!

Although many biographies have been submitted to the Biography Project at National, we still have many of our Chapter Patriots without bios. The more bios we submit, the more stars we can earn for our flag streamer, so get those biographies to us.

Enjoy reading about your Compatriots’ Ancestors!

Compatriot Kentsmith Honored with Patriot Medal

The Patriot Medal is the highest honor that can be bestowed on a Compatriot by a State Society.  It is presented for recognition of long, faithful, outstanding, and distinguished service at the state and/or chapter levels.

State 1st VP, Merle McAlevy, Past State President, David Kentsmith, Omaha President, Tom Upton

As we were unable to present the medal at the Fall State Meeting, Compatriot Kentsmith was presented the medal at the Omaha Chapter Meeting on 13 Nov.  Presenting the medal was State 1st Vice President, Merle McAlevy, and Chapter President, Tom Upton.  Compatriot Kentsmith is very deserving of this recognition as he has served in many capacities and offices at various levels of the Society.  He has been Chapter President of Omaha SAR, State President of Nebraska SAR, State Secretary, State Trustee and Alternate Trustee, as well as serving on various committees, including heading up the committee that helped to rewrite and update our State By-Laws.  He also served as the North Central District, Vice President General to the National SAR.

Congratulations, Compatriot Kentsmith!  Thank you from all of the state membership for your outstanding service to the Omaha and Nebraska SAR!!

Lincoln Chapter Meeting

Today, Nov 2, 2018, the Lincoln Chapter had our monthly meeting.  Planning for the 7th Annual American Heritage Dinner is underway and Donal Hickey has been invited to present his program “The Ride of Paul Revere”.  We are looking forward to another exciting and educational evening.  The date of the American Heritage Dinner is Feb 16, 2019, at the Havelock Social Hall in Lincoln.  This is the location we have used for all 6 of our previous dinners.  Invitations will be going out in the next couple of weeks and there will be a signup form on the Lincoln page, along with a PayPal link for those wishing to make reservations that way.

Also, for the Lincoln membership, the minutes of today’s meeting have been posted.

The Omaha Chapter is on Facebook!

If you are on Facebook, look for Omaha SAR and like and follow our new Chapter page.  We will be posting articles about Revolutionary War Patriots, battles, and other general Revolutionary Era information, photos and posts on the happenings of our Chapter at meetings and other events, as well as other items that may be of interest and relevant to the Omaha SAR.

Like and follow the page and invite others to like and follow the page.  Help us get our voice out there in the social media community!!

Omaha Compatriot Honored

At our Omaha Chapter meeting on 9 Oct 2018, Compatriot David Kentsmith was honored for his service to the SAR.

Chapter President, Tom Upton, presented David with a certificate from National for his service as Vice President General for the North Central District, which includes Nebraska, Iowa, Minnesota, and North and South Dakota, for which he served from 2017-2018.  He was also presented with a certificate and pin for his service as our Past State President, from 2016-2017.

Congratulations Compatriot Kentsmith, and thank you, from all of the membership, for your service and dedication to the SAR!

Omaha Chapter – October Program

Our program for October was delivered by Lorraine Jeffus, Past President of Questers International.

Her program covered the history of The Questers organization which was founded in 1944 in Ft. Washington, PA.  Their mission is to educate by research and the study of antiques, be it antique items, landmarks, or architecture.  Their National organization gives grants to their chapters to help with restoration projects that the chapters take on.  One of the projects in the Omaha area that received a grant was the restoration of a stained glass window within the Joslyn Castle.  They have also sponsored a fellowship that helped to restore the tent that General George Washington used during the Revolutionary War.  That tent is now on display at the Museum of the American Revolution in Philadelphia, PA.

It was a very interesting program, and a great organization to learn about.  If you are into antiques and want to learn more, check out The Questers online.

Omaha Chapter set to resume meetings

Following our 3 month, summer hiatus, the Omaha Chapter is set to resume meeting again on 11 Sep 2018, at Gorat’s Steakhouse, at 6pm in Omaha.  Please plan on attending, as we will be reviewing our membership survey sent out over the summer months and presenting our actions, and some fun ideas, to continue growing our chapter in a positive way!  We look forward to seeing you all!

Independence Day Parade – Ralston, NE

The State Color Guard participated in the 58th annual Independence Day Parade in Ralston, NE, on 4 Jul 2018.  Color Guard Commander, Chad Sherrets (Omaha), State President, Shawn Stoner (Lincoln), Compatriot John Braisted (Lincoln), and Compatriot Paul Burright (Omaha) were in attendance.  Nella and Aylin Dolan, members of the Children of the American Revolution, also in period dress, carried our banner in front of the colors.  Compatriot Mel Burright (Omaha) rode in an open jeep behind the color guard, waving and interacting with the spectators, along with Mary Dolan, President of the CAR and also a DAR member.  It was an extremely hot day as we marched the 1.5 miles of the parade route, through downtown Ralston, as one of 100 other parade entries, and were seen by an estimated 42,000 members of the public in attendance.  It was great to see people stand up and salute, or place their hand over their hearts, as we marched past with the colors.  It was a great event to represent the Nebraska Society and showcase our organization to the public.

Commander Chad Sherrets, Pres. Shawn Stoner, Paul Burright, John Braisted

Chad Sherrets, Shawn Stoner, Paul Burright, John Braisted, CAR members Nella and Aylin Dolan

On the parade route!

Independence Day Color Guard!!

#NebraskaSAR #SARPatriotism

President Eisenhower Compatriot Grave Marking

Members of the NESSAR Color Guard, Paul Burright (Omaha) and Shawn Stoner (Lincoln) participated in the SAR Compatriot grave marking celebration for President Dwight D. Eisenhower.  It was a beautiful day to spend time honoring a fellow compatriot.  There were about 200 people in attendance for the service and 22 Color Guard members from Kansas, Nebraska, North Carolina and Maryland.   The granddaughter, great grandson and 2 young great great grandchildren of President Eisenhower were in attendance.

The grave marking was held in conjunction with the annual D-Day celebration held annually at the Presidential Museum and Library in Abilene, KS.  Beginning at 4PM there was live music in front of the library with a bank from Salina, which is about 30 miles west of Abilene.  At 5 there was the first of two performances by the Commanding General’s Mounted Color Guard, they are an impressive group of young soldiers based at Fort Riley, KS, all in Civil War era uniforms riding beautiful wild caught Mustangs.  They are keeping the horse-mounted infantry tradition alive for us to enjoy.  At 6, the Army band from Fort Riley performed a selection of popular music from the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s.  The evening was capped off by a sunset concert of the Salia Symphony.  Truly a memorable day for the SAR members and the Eisenhower family.

Place of Meditation where President and Mimie Eisenhower and their son lay in repose.

Eisenhower family home.

Compatriot Burright, and NESSAR President Stoner presented wreaths for the Lincoln and Omaha Chapters as well as the NESSAR.

Members of the SAR National Color Guard at the Eisenhower Grave Marking. Nebraska Compatriots Shawn Stoner (NE flag) and Paul Burright (Musket on right) were in attendance.

Members of the SAR National Color Guard at the Eisenhower Grave Marking. Nebraska Compatriots Shawn Stoner (NE flag) and Paul Burright (Musket on right) were in attendance.

President General Guzzy

Memorial Day 2018 – Omaha National Cemetery

Color Guard Commander, Compatriot Chad Sherrets and Compatriot Paul Burright presented the colors, in conjunction with the Millard South, JROTC Color Guard, at the Memorial Day Ceremony at the Omaha National Cemetery.  The JROTC color guard presented the modern American flag, while the SAR presented the Betsy Ross flag.  This co-presentation honored our fallen service members, from our very first veterans, to our current veterans.  During the presentation, the National Anthem was sung, the invocation was given, and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited.  In attendance was U.S. Senator, Deb Fischer, U.S. Representative, Don Bacon, and several officers from Offutt AFB and VA.  It was quite an honor to be a part of this ceremony and pay our respects to our fallen soldiers.

Memorial Day 2018 in Lincoln

It was a beautiful, if not a little too hot, May morning in Lincoln at Wyuka Cemetery for the yearly Memorial Day Celebration.

Memorial Day 2018 at Wyuka Cemetery Lincoln

Compatriots, Shawn Stoner, John Braisted, John Reinert and Thomas Masters were in attendance.

Compatriots: Stoner, Braisted, J Reinert and Masters

Chapter meeting – 8 May 2018

On 8 May 2018, the Omaha Chapter held its monthly meeting and Mr. Jason Grof, managing director for Fort Atkinson State Historical Park was our guest speaker.  Fort Atkinson is located in Ft. Calhoun, NE, just north of the Omaha metro area.  The Fort was the first military post west of the Missouri River and was established in 1820.  At its peak, it housed the U.S. Army 6th Infantry and had 1200 soldiers stationed there.  They are currently in the first year of a 3 year Bicentennial Celebration at the Fort.  2018 is focusing on the War of 1812, and there are living history weekends the first weekend of every month through October.  You can find more information about the Fort and schedule of upcoming events at http://outdoornebraska.gov/fortatkinson/.  Thank you to Jason Grof for giving us some history and insight into this very historical fort.

Vice President Ben Harvey, President Tom Upton, and Jason Grof from Ft. Atkinson State Historical Park

Reenactors fire a cannon during a living history day at Fort Atkinson SHP. Carroll, Copyright NEBRASKAland Magazine/Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.

Fort Atkinson on Fourth of July weekend. Soldiers firing their muskets. Nguyen, July 6, 2013. Copyright NEBRASKAland Magazine, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.

 

ROTC Award Presentations

In April and early May, the Omaha Chapter had the honor of presenting ROTC cadets with the SAR ROTC awards and medals.  The ROTC cadet is selected to receive this award for their high degree of merit with respect to leadership qualities, military bearing, and general excellence.  Congratulations to the cadets and thank you to our Omaha Chapter members for volunteering their time to present these awards at their respective ceremonies.

Compatriot Tom Jones and Cadet Roger Hernandez – Omaha South HS

Compatriot David Kentsmith and Air Force Cadet Joshua Saddler – UNO

Compatriot Paul Burright and Cadet Sean Nutting – Omaha Burke HS

Compatriot Bob Knott and Cadet Komlan Akakpo – Bellevue East HS

Compatriot Paul Burright and Cadet Isaac del Angel Hernandez – Omaha Northwest HS

Compatriot David Kentsmith and Cadet Heather Clever – Omaha Benson HS

Omaha welcomes new member

At our monthly meeting on 8 May 2018, the Omaha Chapter welcomed Compatriot Charles G. Reynolds to the membership.  His initiation was conducted by Chapter President, Thomas Upton.  Compatriot Reynolds is the father of Omaha member, Compatriot Michael Reynolds, and is descended from William Reynolds (MD).  Congratulations and welcome to the Omaha Chapter and Nebraska Society!

Charles G. Reynolds and Chapter President, Thomas Upton

Lincoln welcomes new member

At the May 4, 2018 meeting, the Lincoln Chapter welcomed new compatriot Stanley Wayne Smith who’s Patriot ancestor was William Colgan a member of Washington’s Life Guard. Welcome to the NESSAR Compatriot Smith!

President Hoke presents Compatriot Smith his membership certificate.

JROTC Medal Presented

April 26, 2018 Compatriot John Braisted of the Lincoln Chapter presented the Sons of the American Revolution JROTC medal and certificate to Cadet Carter Dowding at Lincoln Northeast High-school. In 2015 his older brother Emery Dowding received the same award. Congratulations to Carter and Dowding family!


New Member Initiation

Chapter President Thomas Upton and Compatriot Lance Overmyer

 

Compatriot Lance Alan Overmyer was initiated into the Nebraska Society at the Omaha Chapter meeting on 8 Apr 2018 by Chapter President, Thomas Upton.  Compatriot Overmyer is descended from Capt. John George Overmyer (PA) and he gave a short overview of his application journey, his Patriot Ancestor, and Patriot’s service.  Congratulations, Compatriot Overmyer and welcome to the Society!

2018 State Meeting Reminder

2018 State Meeting Reminder

This is a reminder that the Nebraska State Society Sons of the American Revolution will hold the annual Spring Meeting at 2 P.M. Sunday 15 April 2018 at Mahoney State Park located at the Ashland exit of I-80.

The Meeting will be on the second floor of the Lodge, in the Cedar room.  The first portion of the meeting is open to visitors and the NESSAR Eagle Scout Scholarship award will be presented as well as a First Responder/Fire Safety Award given.  The second half of the meeting is open to members only and will be a business meeting.  Please plan to attend as this is your chance to have input on what happens in YOUR State Society.

There will be a meal available for purchase at Caddy’s Parkside Grille, a new food vendor in the Lodge.  The meal will begin a 1 P.M. reservations are not needed.

 

 

Omaha Chapter – 13 Mar 2018 Meeting

Jared Gerber, Kristine Gerber,  Vice President, Ben Harvey

 

 

The Omaha Chapter held their monthly meeting on 13 Mar 2018 at Gorat’s Steakhouse in Omaha.  Our guest speaker for the meeting was Kristine Gerber with Restoration Exchange Omaha.  She had a very nice program for the members on some of Omaha’s history and some of the historical buildings that R.E.O. has helped to save, including the Specht Building and the Jewel Building, as well as helping to find buyers to save and restore the Joslyn Castle and the Rose Theatre.  All of these buildings were scheduled at one time for demolition.  They are also able to help get buildings and homes listed on the National Historic Register that helps to preserve our most historic commercial buildings as well as historic homes in many of our oldest neighborhoods.

The Omaha Chapter thanks Kristine for her insight and dedication to preserving Omaha’s history and for sharing this important work with our SAR members!

 

Omaha Chapter – 20 Year Membership Award

 

At our monthly meeting on 13 Feb 2018, Chapter President, Tom Upton and Chapter Secretary, Paul Burright presented Compatriot and Chapter Treasurer, John Parsons with his certificate for 20 years of membership in the Nebraska Society, SAR – Omaha Chapter.  He was approved into the National Society on 26 Jan 1998 through his Patriot Ancestor, Andreas Ziegler (PA), and Compatriot Parsons currently has 7 approved Revolutionary Patriots in his lineage.  Congratulations!

Lincoln Chapter Holds Elections

On February 2, 2018 the Lincoln Chapter Elected and Installed their officers for the 2018-2019 term.

President James Hoke, Secretary Shawn Stoner, Vice President John Braisted, Treasurer LaVerne Stetson

Lincoln Chapter President James Hoke (2018-2019) after installation by Past President Shawn Stoner (202014-2015 and 2016-2017)

2017 Wreaths Across America

Lincoln President and Secretary (Shawn Stoner and John Braisted) represented the NESSAR at the annual event at Wyuka Cemetery in Lincoln.  What a difference a year makes!  In 2016 is was 5 degrees with a strong wind and under one half inches of ice!  2017 saw 55 degrees with a light breeze and lots of sun.

  

6th Annual American Heritage Diner

The Lincoln Chapter of the NESSAR is pleased to announce that we have opened registration for the 6th Annual American Heritage Diner.  The AHD is Feb 17, 2018 at the Havelock Social Hall, 4538 N 62nd St, Lincoln, NE.  The featured speaker for this year will be Darrel Draper presenting Daniel Freeman.  Freeman was the 1st homesteader in the United States and his 160 acre homestead was near Beatrice.  The price for the evening is $20 per person.  Please go to the Lincoln Chapter page for details and registration.  Hope to see you all there!

Humanities Nebraska (HN) provides major funding for this program.  HN receives support from the National Endowment for the Humanities, the Nebraska State legislature, and Nebraska Cultural Endowment, and private donations.  The presentation will begin at 7PM and is open to the public at no charge.

NESSAR Color Guard Presents Colors

April 4, 2017 the NESSAR color guard presented the colors for the opening of the Eagle Scout University at Bellevue University in Bellevue, NE.  Commander Chad Sherrets, Ron Stites and Shawn Stoner were in attendance. 

Also, Compatriot Merle Rudebusch of the Lincoln Chapter gave the opening remarks to those assembled.  His remarks were on the founding of Nebraska and history related to the 150th anniversary of the state.

5th Annual American Heritage Dinner hosted by the Lincoln Chapter

Saturday February 25, 2017 the Lincoln Chapter hosted our 5th annual American Heritage Dinner.

We began the evening with the NESSAR Eagle Scout Award winner Jake Swanson leading us the the Pledge of Alligance.  Merle Rudebusch then presented him with an Eagle Scout Award patch.  Jake will speak at the Spring NESSAR meeting in April and recieve his scholarship award.

Our featured speaker was Beverly Beavers who does an impressive impersionation of Lady Vestey who was raised in Superior, NE and lead a fasinating life traveling the world and being the highest payed female executive of her time.  Married into the English aristrocracy but never forgot her Nebraska roots.

Members of many organizations were in attendance, SAR, DAR, SUVCW, DUVCW, Dames of the 17th Century, Mayflower Society, Hughuenot Socity, Society of the War of 1812, and more.

Compatriot Harry Merrihew was initiated by President David Kentsmith.

Displays were provided by Compatriot Roger Rotschaefer and his wife Linda.  They had a beautiful display of WWI and Korean War uniforms and memorabilia.

Bill Dean, Camp Commander of the Neabraska Sons of the Union Veterans of the Civil War (SUVCW) brought his display of Civil War memorabilia.

MAI/POW table setting was donated to the Lincoln Chapter by Compatriot Robert Chandler.  He as his wife have supplied the table to us for the past several years.

A great night, that was enjoyed by all in attendance.  Hope to see everyone back on February 17, 2018 for our 6th annual dinner!

 

 

5th Annual American Heritage Diner Registration

The Lincoln Chapter of the Nebraska Society of the Sons of the American Revolution, invite you to join us on Saturday February 25, 2017 at the Havelock Social Hall for and evening featuring A Visit With Lady Vestey.   The price for the buffet diner will be $20 per person, vegetation option available.

Lady Vestey became the highest paid woman executive in the world in the early 1900’s. As an employee of the Vestey Cold Storage Company she traveled extensively and learned many languages. She was instrumental in providing food for the Allied troops during World War I and lived in London during the bombing of Britain during World War II.  She joined the English nobility when she married her boss, William. They bought their own cruise ship named the Arandora Star and lived in a huge house in London named Kingswood. Lady Vestey traveled far, but she never found a place that she liked better than Nebraska. This program provides stories and information that appeals to all ages.

Click Here to download the registration form (pdf).  If you have difficulty downloading or printing please email me and I will provide a copy.

Major funding of this program provided by Humanities Nebraska and is free and open to the public.

 

October 2016 Lincoln Meeting

October 2016 Lincoln Meeting

NESSAR President David Kentsmith attended the October meeting of the Lincoln Chapter.  He reported on the Fall Leadership meeting in Louisville and discussed the correct methods for approval ready applications.

President Kentsmith presented Lincoln Chapter President, Shawn Stoner, a US/SAR flag lapel pin for assisting Chad S. of Omaha in establishing a Color Guard unit for the NESSAR.

oct-2016

Fall 2016 State Meeting

NESAR met Sunday 11 Sep 2016 for our bi-annual meeting.

dsc_0042Color Guard members Chad Sherrets and Shawn Stoner with President David KentSmith.  Standing by a hand carved Great Seal of the United States that belongs to John Braisted.

2016 Memorial Day at Wyuka Cemetery in Lincoln

The Lincoln Chapter of the NESSAR has historically participated in the parade and wreath laying at the annual Memorial Day observance in Lincoln, NE. This year Chapter President Shawn Stoner, NESSAR Registrar Thomas Masters and Immediate Past President (NESSAR) John Reinert participated. Lincoln member Merle Rudebusch marched with the SUVCW and presented a speech on the 150th anniversary of the founding of the G.A.R.

 

Nebraska Color Guard Formed

Both the Lincoln and Omaha Chapters have formed color guards!

The Omaha Chapter is under the command of Chad Sherretts and the Lincoln Chapter is under the command of Shawn Stoner.

Both units came together to for the Nebraska Society Color Guard for the first time April 20, 2016 at the Spring meeting of the NESSAR.

NESSAR Color Guard for the Spring 2016 Meeting. Ron Sites (Omaha) Shawn Stoner (Lincoln) and Chad Sherrets (Omaha)

NESSAR Color Guard for the Spring 2016 Meeting. Ron Sites (Omaha) Shawn Stoner (Lincoln) and Chad Sherrets (Omaha)

Presenting the colors for the assembled to say the Pledge of Alligence.

Presenting the colors for the assembled to say the Pledge of Alligence.

Commander Sherrets commands the guard to post the Colors.

Commander Sherrets commands the guard to post the Colors.

Color Guard with newly elected NESSAR President David Kentsmith.

Color Guard with newly elected NESSAR President David Kentsmith.

Reports From 2015 Congress

Reports from Congress submitted by Fred Walden, Trustee and John Parsons, North-Central Region Vice-President

Report on the 125th Congress of the Sons of the American Revolution

The finance Committee reported that an expenditure of $40,000 will be made to bring the computer system up to date.

A Motion was made and passed to raise the annual dies $5.00 per year.  So, in 2016 the annual dues will be raised $50.00 per member.   There were several objections to the motion, including mine.  Many voiced opinions that the raise would cause loss of membership and make it difficult to attract new members.  After a standing vote, the motion was carried.

The University of Louisville has worked with the SAR developing a computer program designed to charge non SAR members a fee to use the SAR Museum.  This will create new revenue for the SAR.

Operation Ancestor Search (OAS) began in 2010 with an altruistic vision of a program whereby skilled SAR genealogists could provide genealogy assistance and training in family history research for wounded soldiers, their families and caregivers, thereby taking their minds off their often difficult and painful injuries that they received in combat.  To date, OAS has served more than 1,100 participants through 23 participating SAR Chapters across the U.S.  If our chapter is interested in starting an OAS program, we can contact OAS Chairman Carl Bedell at cbedell@yahoo.com or OAS Program Director Rick Kincaid at rkincaid@sar.org or 502-588-6147.

I was happy to see John Parsons and his lady walk down the aisle and be introduced as out North-Central Vice President.

Since we do not have a North-Central district breakfast, Janet and I attended the North Atlantic and Midwest breakfasts.  We also attended the $1000 dollar Breakfast.  I brought back some literature that explains how one can become a member of the $1000 group by contributing $250 per year for four years.  This money is used for scholarships (Boy Scouts etc.) and is kept separate from all other funds.

Voting for the 2016 officers involved a long line which took approximately one hour to register and to vote.

This year’s Congress was held at the Galt Hotel.  Previous meetings were held at the Brown Hotel.   I was not as comfortable at the Galt.  The meetings were held in rooms that were a greater distance one from the other.  The beds were not as comfortable as those in the Brown.  Parking was expensive.  Valet parking was $25 a day and regular parking was $10 per day.

From Omaha, half-way to Louisville is approximately 250 miles.  We traveled that distance stopping at Galesburg, Illinois.  We found Galesburg an ideal stop with convenient Motek, restaurants and filling stations.

The 126th National Congress of the Sons of the American Revolution will be held in Boston, Massachusetts in 1026.

Respectfully submitted, Fred Walden

The 125th NSSAR Convention in Louisville

My wife Pauline and I had the privilege of attending the 125th Convention of the National Society, Sons of the American Revolution in Louisville, Kentucky from 26 June to 1 July 2015.  Fred Walden (the National Trustee from Nebraska) and his wife Jan also attended, and the four of us had a great time.

The weekend was taken up primarily by optional side trips to Churchill Downs, the George Rogers Clark homestead, or other local attractions.  There is quite a bit to see in Louisville including the Slugger museum, various bourbon distillers, shopping opportunities, and of course, the SAR library and museum.

The museum and library, also with many other tourist attractions, was within walking distance of the hotel.  I spend several hours in the library which has a fantastic collection of historical and genealogical books and documents.  The Kentucky Society hosted a welcome party Saturday evening at the museum, providing a splendid opportunity to meet attendees from all over the country.

The museum is in its early stages of construction, and the staff is trying to put together not just a collection of artifacts, but an educational display of the entire American Revolution with the intent to educate the public on the events and ideas of that era.  It is a great idea and we’ll see how it works out.

Business meetings were conducted Monday through Wednesday.  some awards were distributed during thees sessions, and I was presented with streamers for the Omaha and Lincoln Chapters and the Nebraska Society as an award for the Patriot biographies that were submitted.  Senator Mitch McConnell, a member of the Kentucky Society, spoke at the Wednesday business meeting, and Mike Helm, the National Commander of the American Legion and a Nebraskan, spoke at the dinner that evening.  Fred and I as members of the American Legion in Nebraska, had our picture taken with him.  Election of new national officers was held and the officers were duly installed at the concluding banquet on Wednesday evening.

While Fred and I were the only members present from the North Central Region, there were quite a few attendees from other parts of the country.  I met a number of individuals, including a distant relative of mine from Berks County, PA, and an individual from Alabama who was friends with one of Pauline’s cousins.  It’s a small world!

Next year’s session will be held in Boston, so that should be interesting.  We had a great time and I would encourage any of you who would like to attend to please do so.

John Parsons

2nd Annual American Heritage Dinner

Feb 22nd the Lincoln Chapter hosted their 2nd annual Founder’s Dinner at the Havlock Social  Hall.  Guests were invited from a wide array of patriotic organizations, many of which were represented.  President James Hoke was emcee for the evening and presented certificates and awards to guests and SAR members.  Lincoln resident, Mary Bede entertained and educated with her impressive portrayal of Clara Barton, founder of the American Red Cross.  Several organizations had displays and there was a very nice display of Civil War era memorabilia and authentic guns.

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Table set in remberence of POW/MIA's

Table set in remembrance of POW/MIA’s

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NE Sec. of State, John Gale and wife, joined us.

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Member Merle Rudebusch gave a talk about the history of the US Flag

Member Merle Rudebusch gave a talk about the history of the US Flag

Mary Bede as Clara Barton, founder of the American Red Cross

Mary Bede as Clara Barton, founder of the American Red Cross

Clara Barton

Present Hoke and Clara Barton

Present Hoke and Clara Barton

Member Robert Chandler accepts an Meritorious Service Award from President Hoke

Member Robert Chandler accepts an Meritorious Service Award from President Hoke

President Hoke thanks Miss Chandler

President Hoke thanks Miss Chandler

Robert Chandler’s granddaughter, CAR member, led us in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance.

Greg Holloway spoke about legal issues in the State Legislature, and getting the Pledge of Allegiance into all public schools.

Greg Holloway spoke about veteran’s issues in the State Legislature, and getting the Pledge of Allegiance into all public schools.

Awards Given at the 2013 Fall Meeting

Our awardee for the Fire Safety Commendation was given to Lincoln Fire and Rescue member Andrew McLaughlin.

Compatriot Stoner presents award to Andrew McLaughlin

Compatriot Stoner presents award to Andrew McLaughlin

Firefighter Andrew McLaughlin and Cheif Tim Linky

Firefighter Andrew McLaughlin and Chief Tim Linky

President Fred Walden made his personal award to members of the NE Society and other for their help during his tenure.

John Reinert is awarded the Meritorious Service Medal

John Reinert awarded the Meritorious Service Medal

James Hoke is awarded the Meritorious Service Medal

James Hoke awarded the Meritorious Service Medal

Shawn Stoner is awarded the Meritorious Service Medal

Shawn Stoner awarded the Meritorious Service Medal

Merle Rudebusch is awarded the Roger Sherman Medal

Merle Rudebusch awarded the Roger Sherman Medal

John Parsons is awarded the Liberty Medal for sponsoring more than 10 SAR members.

John Parsons awarded the Liberty Medal for sponsoring more than 10 SAR members.

President Walden presents the Lydia Darragh award to his wife Jan Walden for all of the work she has done helping and supporting him during his tenure as President.

President Walden presents the Lydia Darragh award to his wife Jan Walden for the work helping and supporting him during his tenure as President.

President Walden and Robert Chandler present the NESSAR Flag Award to Merle Rudebusch.

President Walden and Robert Chandler present the NESSAR Flag Award to Merle Rudebusch.

President Walden presents the awards that members, chapters and the society received at the 2013 Congress.

Bob Knott and Bill Webb were presented the Flathers award for the NESSAR newsletter, The Husker Patriot.

Bob Knott and Bill Webb being presented the Flathers award for the NESSAR newsletter, The Husker Patriot.

President Walden presents the Streamer and Certificate for Flag Certificates presented to John Reinert.

President Walden presents the Streamer and Certificate for Flag Certificates presented to John Reinert.

 

2013 SAR Congress

2013 CongressNESSAR President Fred Walden and wife Jan (pictured 2nd from left) attended the SAR Congress in Kansas City July 6-10, 2013.

Lincoln Chapter vice president Shawn Stoner also attended the business meetings on July 8-10.