The Patriot archive

So, while the war may fade from the 24/7 news cycle, we cannot let it fade from our minds as the freedom loving descendents of our Patriot ancestors. 9 Chapter Compatriots attended the important SAR State Board of Management meeting on May 14 th in Orlando where important decisions regarding our State society, its by-laws and 2023 leadership was determined. The slate of 2022/23 Officers and Committees may be found at www.flssar.org.

Last updated November 10, 2026 at 7:07 pm EST

Following the interesting and insightful review of crime, social unrest and policing challenges in our community, along with interesting insights on how Colonel Allen began his 43 year career in Law Enforcement, the Chapter honored this professional with the prestigious SAR Law Enforcement Commendation Medal.

Last updated November 10, 2026 at 7:01 pm EST

Chapter President Lanman recognized Compatriots Alex Dreyfoos and Ray Wess for their historic service to the Chapter with their support of the Chapter’s Youth & History Scholarship programs. The Chapter’s annual Scholarship program has been named the “Alex Dreyfoos History Scholarship ” in Honor of Compatriot Dreyfoos with sincere appreciation and admiration for his selfless support of the Chapter’s History Scholarship program. Compatriot Dreyfoos continues to support the scholarship program by matching additional donations to that program. Thank You Alex.

Last updated November 10, 2026 at 7:11 pm EST

Chapter President Lanman recognized Compatriots Alex Dreyfoos and Ray Wess for their outstanding service to the Chapter with their support of the Chapter’s Youth History Scholarship programs.

Last updated November 10, 2026 at 7:13 pm EST

Dr. Smith will take us on a fascinating walk through history of this famous 450 year old city that’s served under 4 different flags. ( Spanish, British, Confederate, American ) The February 16 meeting honored His Excellency George Washington’s Birthday and welcome back for the 6 th year President Thomas Jefferson! Compatriot and former PB Chapter President John Stewart with his presentation as the dynamic Founding Father, President Thomas Jefferson on “Jefferson’s View of George Washington ”.

Last updated November 10, 2026 at 7:18 pm EST

Our four meetings to date were well attended with dozens of Compatriots, DAR Daughters and Guests joining us for interesting speakers and soul enriching fellowship! Chaired by FMR State/Chapter President, NSSAR Deputy Inspector General, Ray Wess, the January meeting included the formal Transfer of Leadership Installation Ceremony. 2021 Officers: Donald Lanman, President, David Wratislaw, Vice President, Bob Boggs, Secretary, John Workman, Registrar, Peter Johnston, Treasurer, Ben Tidwell, Chaplain, Sonny Barber, Historian, Greg Parkinson, Sgt. @ Arms, Bill Richards & TK Krummenacker Officers @ Large. It is important to note that 4 of the 2021 Officers are all former Chapter Presidents including Lanman, Boggs, Tidwell and Parkinson, who continue to serve as Officers. Thank you gentlemen for your commitment, dedication and service to our great patriotic society.

Last updated November 10, 2026 at 7:09 pm EST

Over two dozen Compatriots, DAR Daughters and Guests joined us for great fellowship as we elected the 2021 Chapter Officers, Honored Veterans Month, Honored Chapter SAR “Veterans Battalion” members and enjoyed an informative “Patriot Bio” on the Scotch-Irish in America by Author/Historian & Chapter Treasurer Peter Johnston. Mark your calendars and join us at the next virtual Chapter meeting January 19 @ 12 Noon featuring a 2021 Officer Induction, plus a special guest speaker on the Famous Battle of Oriskany Family, Friends & Guests are Welcome to attend!

Last updated November 10, 2026 at 7:00 pm EST

Over two dozen Compatriots, DAR Daughters and Guests joined us for some much needed fellowship as we inducted 4 new members, conducted a special Memorial service for 4 Compatriots, presented service awards, inducted a member into the SAR “Veterans Battalion” and enjoyed an informative “Patriot Bio” on the famous Battle of Guilford Courthouse. Mark your calendars and join us at the next virtual Chapter meeting November 17 @ 12 Noon featuring a Veterans Day Tribute, plus a special guest speaker on the Scotch-Irish in America! Family, Friends & Guests are Welcome to attend!

Last updated November 10, 2026 at 7:08 pm EST

NSSAR Deputy Inspector General/FMR State/Chapter Ray Wess was Honored at the last FLSSAR Board of Management meeting with the prestigious Gold Roger Sherman Medal for the 2 nd time. Congratulations Ray, you bring honor to our Chapter. FLSSAR Veterans Battalion Chairman, Don Lanman installed Compatriot Mark A. Wess into the Veterans Battalion. Compatriot Mark Wess, son of NSSAR Deputy Inspector General/FMR State/Chapter Ray Wess, is currently serving on active duty with the United States Navy. Mark is a credit to the PB Chapter and our great Nation.

Last updated November 10, 2026 at 7:12 pm EST

FMR Chapter President, Bob Boggs recognized Compatriots Peter Johnston, Peter Miler, Buddy Miller, Greg Parkinson, and Don Lanman for their tireless effort, support and contribution to the Chapter’s accomplishments in 2019.

Last updated November 10, 2026 at 7:05 pm EST

The Chapter also recognized the important contribution of Compatriots with special recognition including awarding the Chapter Distinguished Service Medal to 35-Year Member and FMR Chapter President Greg Parkinson.

Last updated November 10, 2026 at 7:01 pm EST

Veteran Battalion Compatriots are recognized with either the SAR Military Service or War Service Medal in recognition of their service, and join the 18% of Palm Beach Chapter Veterans who’ve served honorably in WW II, Korea, Vietnam, Iraq, & Afghanistan.

Last updated November 10, 2026 at 7:01 pm EST

The November meeting was chaired by FMR Chapter President Don Lanman and proved exciting as we welcomed back Dr. Roger Smith, Revolutionary War Historian/Author/Compatriot, to share his new research on the “The Family of Patriot Veterans”. Wreaths Across America spokesperson James “Rabbi” King reviewed the Veterans Wreath placement program scheduled for December 14, @ 10 am at the South Florida National Cemetery. The Chapter donated funds to support the program and invite interested Compatriots and family members to attend the event. Lanman opened the meeting for the 2020 Chapter Officer Nominations & Vote. Chapter members voted the 2020 slate of Officers that include: President, Reeve Bright, Vice President, Anthony Shea, Secretary, Bob Boggs, Treasurer, James Mangan, Registrar, Peter Miler, Chaplain, Father Sears, Historian Buddy Miller, Sgt. @ Arms, Greg Parkinson, Officer @ Large, Barry Clayton.

Last updated November 10, 2026 at 7:03 pm EST

President’s Message: Fellow Compatriots, DAR Daughters & Friends… We kicked off the season at the October meeting with the renowned Genealogist & Author, Miles Myer who shared new online research ideas and sources for “ Finding Patriot Ancestors” using the robust database, Family Tree and related resources. In honor of Veterans Month, the November 19 th meeting promises to be exciting as we welcome back Dr. Roger Smith, Revolutionary War Historian/Author/Compatriot, to present his new research on the “The Family of Patriot Veterans” Reserve your spot today to learn from this terrific speaker. We will also hear from Wreaths Across America spokesperson James “Rabbi” King to review the Veterans’ Wreath placement program for 2019 at the South Florida National Cemetery. In addition, the floor will open for 2020 Chapter Officer Nominations that will be voted on…

Last updated November 10, 2026 at 6:59 pm EST

President’s Message: Fellow Compatriots, DAR Daughters & Friends… I trust that you enjoyed the summer break, and as we enter the season, I encourage all Compatriots and our honored DAR Daughters to attend our exciting monthly meetings, enjoy a line-up of great speakers, support patriotic events, and find new members to join our two great societies. We’ve enjoyed a terrific first half of our Chapter’s 81 st year, and will kick off the season with renowned Genealogist & Author Miles Myer who will share new online research ideas and sources for “ Finding Patriot Ancestors” Tuesday October 15. Reserve your spot now to hear this terrific speaker. I extend a special thanks to our Chapter Officers, and to Committee Members including Compatriots Ben Tidwell and Sonny Barber for their ongoing dedication to the valuable High School…

Last updated November 10, 2026 at 6:58 pm EST

First Responder Recognition

We shared stories of their dedication, heroism and community service, and recognized four Palm Beach County First Responders with the prestigious SAR Fire Safety-EMS Commendation Medals including Fire Chief Thomas Wood, Firefighter Tim Ascheman, EMS Captain Eddie Rivera and Life Guard Craig Pollock. Chapter Compatriots were very active in May attending many Patriotic events including the Flags for Fall Veterans Tombstone Flag Placement event and the Forgotten Soldiers Outreach “A Day to Remember” Memorial Day ceremony!

Last updated November 10, 2026 at 6:59 pm EST

Honoring Local Law Enforcement

April was an exceptional meeting as our Chapter Honored four local law enforcement professionals with the prestigious SAR Law Enforcement Commendation & Heroism Medal for Officers Elizabeth Waldkoetter, Adrian Rackauskas, Chief Frank Kitzerow, and the “ Chapter’s Own” Compatriot & State Department Special Agent Jeffrey Joyner.

Last updated November 10, 2026 at 6:59 pm EST

Cyber Safety and Student Support

President’s Message: Fellow Compatriots, DAR Daughters & Friends… I am pleased to report that over 40 Compatriots, Honored DAR Daughters and guests attended our March meeting. Guests reported that they were very pleased with the insightful presentation by Cyber Security expert and Dean of the Cyber Security Department at Palm Beach State College, Dr. Donald Gladney, PhD. Dr. Gladney reviewed important new Cyber-Security Threats & Risks, and Tips to protect against cyber-crime. I urge you to read the March newsletter article “Don’t Get Hacked” by Compatriot Lanman.

Last updated November 10, 2026 at 7:02 pm EST

President’s Message: Fellow Compatriots, DAR Daughters & Friends … As your President, I am pleased to report over 50 Compatriots, DAR Daughters and honored guests attended our February meeting.

Last updated November 10, 2026 at 7:03 pm EST

President’s Message: Fellow Compatriots, DAR Daughters & Friends … November is Veterans ’ Month, and especially Veterans Day is the time honored opportunity to say “Thank You” to our nation’s veterans and serving members of our beloved military world-wide. Our November meeting was highlighted by a moving presentation by Compatriot, Navy Veteran and Author, Sonny Barber! Sonny delivered a heartfelt window into the tragedy and meaning of the WW One on its 100 th Anniversary. You’ll also want to read Compatriot and Army Veteran Lanman’s reveling article “ America’s Hidden Patriots” honoring the unsung “ Heroines of the Revolution ”. I am excited to share with you that the 80 th Anniversary celebration held Saturday December 8 at the historic Everglades Club was a resounding event hosting 140 guests, a 3-course plated lunch and our Annual…

Last updated November 10, 2026 at 6:58 pm EST

President’s Message: Fellow Compatriots, DAR Daughters & Friends … As an Army Veteran, I look forward to Veteran’s Month, and especially Veterans Day as a time honored opportunity to say “Thank You” to our nation’s veterans and serving members of our beloved military world-wide. Don’t miss Compatriot and fellow Navy Veteran, Sonny Barber as he gives us a window to the tragedy and meaning of the WW One 100 th Anniversary. You’ll also want to read Compatriot and Army Veteran Lanman’s “Home of the Free - Because of the Brave” article in honor of Veterans Month. While I look forward to the November meeting with great anticipation, I am most excited about our 80 th Anniversary celebration December 8 at the historic and iconic Everglades Club on Palm Beach Island. The anniversary program includes a special…

Last updated November 10, 2026 at 7:10 pm EST

The Chapter honored 4 Local Heroes at our annual “ Firefighter-EMS First Responder Recognition Ceremony” at the May meeting.

Last updated November 10, 2026 at 7:06 pm EST

Our Chapter Honored four local law enforcement professionals with SAR Law Enforcement Commendation Medals to Officers T. Coleman, C. Malta, W. Reasoner, W. Smith, and featuring a greetings from the Palm Beach County Sheriff Office, Deputy Chief, Mike Gauger. We welcome and Congratulate Compatriot Swain who was formally inducted into the SAR and our Chapter by President Tidwell.

Last updated November 10, 2026 at 7:00 pm EST

President Tidwell presented the prestigious SAR Chapter ’s Bronze and State Societies Silver ‘ Good Citizenship ’ Medals to Former Chapter President, Don Lanman in recognition of a long history of civic, community and national service on over ten community, civic and philanthropic boards over the past 8 years including the Palm Beach State College Foundation, Florida Veterans Foundation, Red Cross and national Aneurysm Outreach Association.

Last updated November 10, 2026 at 7:12 pm EST

Acclaimed Thomas Jefferson re-enactor Compatriot and former Chapter President John Stewart honored our Chapter again with an encore’ portrayal of our 3 rd President along with insights on Jefferson's personal life and his leadership against the infamous Barbary Pirates.

Last updated November 10, 2026 at 7:14 pm EST

President Lanman also recognized the outstanding SAR service of Chapter Compatriots; Ben Tidwell - Chapter Presidents Eagle Award, Gary Green, Distinguished Service Medal, Buddy Miller and Father Sanford Sears, Roger Sherman Bronze Medals.

Last updated November 10, 2026 at 7:03 pm EST

All Compatriot veterans are encouraged to provide their DD-214 to be recognized with the SAR Military Service Medal and welcomed into both the FLSSAR Veterans Battalion and the Chapter’s Own “ Band of Brothers.” Compatriots, please remember that the hotel requires a minimum number of guests to cover the food, room, and services fees, so when attendance is low or there are no shows, the Chapter must pay the difference. Help us avoid losing money on the luncheons by attending each meeting and bringing guests! Compatriots, I look forward to seeing you at the January 16 meeting! Please, join me in honoring our nation’s Veterans, Patriot Ancestors, and especially our Departed Compatriots. God Bless You and God Bless the United States of America. In Patriotism – Ben Tidwell President Lanman - Farewell Message: Fellow Compatriots, December…

Last updated November 10, 2026 at 7:17 pm EST

The meeting also welcomed FLSSAR State President Robert Folk, and featured a special presentation of our National Anthem and God Bless America by aspiring vocalist, pianist, and Children of the American Revolution Page, Ms. Emma Robbins. In recognition and honor of Veterans Month, November meeting attendees received a special “American Veteran Flag” lapel pin donated by Compatriot Thom Irwin. Thank you Thom! The Palm Beach Chapter is a historic supporter of our Nation’s Veterans, with over 15% of its members serving from WW II to Iraq.

Last updated November 10, 2026 at 7:20 pm EST

The meeting also features aspiring vocalist, pianist, and Children of the American Revolution Page, Ms. Emma Robbins to sing our National Anthem and God Bless America, plus a “ Patriot Bio ” delivered by Compatriot Thom Irwin. In recognition and honor of Veterans Month, each meeting attendees will receive a special “American Veteran Flag” lapel pin donated by Compatriot Thom Irwin. The Palm Beach Chapter is a historic supporter of our Nation’s Veterans, with over 15% of its members serving, from WW II to Iraq.

Last updated November 10, 2026 at 7:22 pm EST

The Chapter welcomed three new Compatriots during a special Compatriot Induction Ceremony in May including Jacque Chataing, Tipton Lichtenstein and 2-year-old Carter Grant Coldwell … our youngest Compatriot yet!

Last updated November 10, 2026 at 7:20 pm EST

The meeting will include a new Compatriot Induction Ceremony and honored with a special Color Guard presentation by Boca Raton Community High School Naval JROTC Cadets. The April meeting was exceptional including our annual Thin Blue Line Recognition Ceremony honoring six local law enforcement professionals with Commendation Medals including PBSO Deputy Chief Mike Gauger, and featuring a demonstration by the Pa lm Beach County Sheriff’s K-9 Unit!

Last updated November 10, 2026 at 7:19 pm EST

We honored Compatriot and Past President Ed Buckley with a Certificate of Appreciation and Chapter 80 th Anniversary Commemorative Coin for his historic support of the Chapter and in recognition of receiving the prestigious SAR Patriot Medal by the State society. Compatriot Buckley has supported the SAR for over 20 years, served as Chapter President 2006-2007, is member of the FLSSAR Veterans Battalion and is a WW-2 Veteran.

Last updated November 10, 2026 at 7:21 pm EST

To the haunting skirl of Bag Pipe sounds, delivered by members of the United States Coast Guard Pipe Band, Presidents Tomme and Wess, and First Ladies Cilla and Nomi were welcomed by 60+ members of the Palm Beach Chapter.

Last updated November 10, 2026 at 7:18 pm EST

We recognized the chapter officers, compatriots and DAR supporters who contributed so much to make 2016 one of the most productive in our 79 year history.

Last updated November 10, 2026 at 7:23 pm EST

Our special guest speaker is renowned author Ms. Maureen McGowan-Singer, a recognized expert on Heraldry & Coat of Arms history! She will review this interesting subject with some examples of the Revolutionary Patriots and Chapter members with actual Coats of Arms. Maureen is the National Chairman for Heraldry~Coats of Arms for the Colonial Dames XVII Century and Co-author of an acclaimed handbook on Heraldry. She is a member of the DAR, Past National Chairman of the Colonial Dames America, President Palm Beach Colonial Dames XVII Century, President of Chapter XIX - Florida Everglades and founding General Registrar for the Society of Descendants of Lady Godiva." A sought after speaker, Ms. Singer has conducted over 50 Heraldry & Coat of Arms History workshops and presentations across the U.S. so don’t miss this event! The January meeting will…

Last updated November 10, 2026 at 7:23 pm EST

Bring the whole Family, Friends and neighbors to kick off the Holiday Season in style to the wonderful choir music of the award winning… Kings Academy Choir! -Palm Beach Chapter Annual Holiday Musical- The Kings Academy Conservatory of the Arts-Choir The Chapter honored Veterans Month at the November meeting with special guests; First Sergeant Antonio Correa JROTC instructor for the Forest Hill Community High School, school Color Guard and Staff Sergeant Carl Arfa, WW2 Battle of the Bulge Veteran and Liberator of concentration camps! Please join your fellow Compatriots with a warm welcome home, and “Thank You for Your Service” to all our Veterans, and especially remember those heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice at the “Alter of Freedom” never to return home. Compatriots, the FLSSAR “Veterans Battalion ” honors all Chapter Veterans for their military…

Last updated November 10, 2026 at 7:21 pm EST

State and Chapter Veterans who attended the Fall BOM meeting in Orlando were honored in a special Veterans Vietnam War Commemoration Ceremony including a special Memorial Pin, Ribbon, and Proclamations from the President of the United States and Florida Governor Rick Scott. As a reminder, the SAR “Veterans Battalion ” recognizes and honors all Chapter Veterans for their military service.

Last updated November 10, 2026 at 7:23 pm EST