George Washington

George Washington Chapter

New Orleans, LA
The George Washington Chapter of the Louisiana Society Sons of the American Revolution was established in 1985 to serve the growing number of “at-large” members in the New Orleans area. Former State President Bruce Bair Butler spearheaded the effort, inviting prominent members to his home to discuss forming a chapter. On November 11, 1985, sixteen members signed the Application for Charter, and Butler was elected Organizing President. The chapter held its first meeting at the Pendennis Club on December 12, 1985, marking the beginning of its active role in promoting patriotic education and honoring American heritage.

Over the years, the chapter has celebrated significant milestones, including honoring veterans and law enforcement officers, hosting annual George Washington Birthday events, and expanding community outreach. Leaders such as Norm Umholtz and Bradley Hayes continued the tradition of service, presenting awards and recognizing distinguished members like WWII veteran Richard “Dick” Hallenus for decades of dedication. These efforts reflect the chapter’s enduring commitment to preserving history and fostering civic pride in Louisiana.

President:
Gerald Schroeder

EMail

Secretary:
Rene Navarre

EMail

FaceBook:

https://www.facebook.com/georgewashingtonchapterLASAR

News and Events

  • George Washington Chapter Meeting (8 August 2026)

    The George Washington Chapter of the Louisiana Sons of the American Revolution held its August meeting at Quarter View in Metairie, with 46 members and guests in attendance. The evening opened at 7 p.m. with the invocation and pledges, followed by a series of awards and presentations recognizing service, scholarship, and chapter achievements.

    Chief of Police Keith Conly of Kenner received the SAR Law Enforcement Commendation Medal and Certificate in honor of his distinguished career in public service. The chapter also heard a genealogical presentation from Jari Honora, titled “Some Questions of Relationship & Identity in the Ancestry of Pope Leo XIV.”

    Several chapter recognitions were made, including a Certificate of Appreciation presented to John McNamara for his dedicated service as Color Sergeant. The chapter also welcomed a new member, James “Jim” Cogswell, who was formally inducted and presented with his Certificate and Rosette.

    Guest speaker Robert Gray Freeland delivered an in‑depth presentation on the Spanish Governors of Louisiana during the Revolutionary War, along with updates on America 250 activities at the Cabildo, Granaderos y Damas de Galvez, and the Historic New Orleans Collection. He was presented with a gift from the chapter—his second—having previously spoken in 2024. Member Dennis Dale will collaborate with him on upcoming educational initiatives.

    The meeting concluded with officer reports from Dennis Dale and Jeff Roux, followed by the passing and signing of a resolution to add new officers to the chapter’s USAA account. The evening reflected strong attendance, meaningful recognition, and continued commitment to historical education and chapter growth.

    August 8, 2026, Quarter View, Metairie, the Audience, 46 Members and Guests

  • George Washington Chapter Meeting (13 May 2026)

    The George Washington Chapter of the Louisiana Sons of the American Revolution held its May 13, 2026 meeting at Bistro Orleans in Metairie, with a record post‑COVID attendance of 46 members and guests. The evening opened with the traditional invocation and pledges, followed by the presentation of the Silver Roger Sherman Award to Genealogist Jari Honora for his groundbreaking research confirming Pope Leo XIV’s Louisiana ancestry. Honora then delivered his talk, “Some Questions of Relationship & Identity in the Ancestry of Pope Leo XIV.”

    The chapter also installed new officers, presented certificates to members, and recognized individuals for their service—including a Certificate of Appreciation to Mike Voss for his work as Chapter Registrar. Several new applicants signed their SAR applications, and photos documented the strong turnout and participation throughout the event.

  • George Washington Chapter Meeting (19 February 2026)

    The George Washington Chapter gathered on February 19, 2026, at Bistro Orleans in Metairie, opening promptly at 7:00 p.m. with the customary invocation and pledges to the Flag and the SAR. The evening carried a strong spirit of patriotism, education, and fellowship, highlighted by both distinguished speakers and the welcoming of new compatriots into the Chapter.

    The first presentation of the evening was delivered by Mr. Steve Kubicek, who spoke on his book Visibly Struck, a compelling exploration of George Washington’s extraordinary experiences and his unwavering belief in the guiding hand of divine providence. Kubicek’s insights into Washington’s faith and leadership captivated the audience. In appreciation for his contribution, the Chapter presented him with a silver George Washington U.S. Mint Commemorative Coin.

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    • Mr. Mitch Pratt
    • Left to Right: Grout, Gonzalez, Navarre, Schroeder
    • Good Citizen award presented to Chef Archie Saurage and Staff of the Bistro Orleans.


    A significant moment followed as the Chapter inducted three new members—Dennis Dale, Ben Crowe, and Gerald Schroeder—into the Sons of the American Revolution. Each was welcomed with warm applause and recognized for their commitment to honoring their patriot ancestors. Their addition strengthens the Chapter’s mission and ensures continued growth in service and participation.

    The program continued with an appearance by Mr. Mitch Pratt, President of the General Philemon Thomas Chapter, who arrived in full Revolutionary War uniform. Pratt offered an engaging overview of his Chapter’s Color Guard, explaining its formation, traditions, and the practical considerations of assembling historically accurate uniforms. His presentation prompted numerous questions from members eager to learn more about Color Guard involvement.

    • New Application Signing
    • LtR: Dennis Dale, Ben Crowe, Gerald Schroeder
    • Members Present
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    GW Chapter member John McNamara then provided additional perspective by discussing his service with the Beauregard Camp 130 Color Guard. He described the vintage and replica weapons used by the unit—including the procedures and safety protocols for firing muskets during ceremonies—giving members a vivid look at the discipline and authenticity required for such roles.

    The evening concluded with a special presentation of the SAR Chapter Good Citizen Award to Chef Archie Saurage and the staff of Bistro Orleans. Their continued hospitality, support, and service to the Chapter were recognized with sincere appreciation, marking a fitting close to a meeting filled with history, camaraderie, and celebration.

  • George Washington Chapter Installation of Officers (15 January 2026)

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    President Alvin Jones oversaw the installation of the George Washington Chapter’s new officers, inducting Gerald Schroeder as President, Tony Riddle as First Vice President, Gregory Gonzales as Second Vice President, Louis McFaul as Treasurer, and Kirk Bellard as Historian. Three additional officers who were unable to attend will be installed at a later meeting. During the ceremony, President Schroeder honored outgoing President Jones with a Past President Medal and Certificate, and the chapter further recognized Jones by inviting him to keep his President’s medal and lanyard as a token of appreciation for his service.

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    The meeting also featured a guest speaker, chapter member Mike Wallace, whose presentation drew strong interest and prompted a number of thoughtful questions from attendees. With the formal transition of officers, the recognition of past leadership, and an engaging program, the chapter demonstrated its continued commitment to strong stewardship and meaningful member involvement. Would you like this refined into a version suitable for a newsletter or official minutes?

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  • George Washington Chapter Meeting (20 November 2026)

    George Washington Chapter held a meeting at Bistro Orleans. The chapter had a strong turnout. President Alvin Jones presided over the proceedings.

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    Presentation of Military Service Certificates to Dr. Patrick
    Breaux (USN Surgeon for 3rd Marine Division), Alex Baird (USCG)

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    Secretary Rene Navarre presents Supplemental Certificates for Gerald Schroeder, and Alvin Jones for additional Patriots.

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  • Chapter Christmas Party (December 2019)

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  • Celebrating George Washington’s Birthday in New Orleans (February 22, 2019)

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    Members of the George Washington Chapter celebrated our First President’s birthday at the Southern Yacht Club in New Orleans.  104 members and guests were on hand to remember the Father of our Country.  Photos courtesy of Col. Frank Arnemann (Ret)

  • Chapter Christmas Party (December 2018)

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    This year's annual meeting was held at Vacherie Restaurant in the French Quarter and featured Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser as the Special Guest speaker. Over 40 members and guests were in attendance.

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