Members of the recreated Second Continental Artillery Regiment and the Saratoga Battler Chapter's Color Guard were among those honored for their work promoting America's 250^th Anniversary.

About 40 people attended the September 15 meeting at the Factory Eatery & Spirits in Ballston Spa, where Empire State Society, SAR President David W. Powell presented the SAR's Silver 250^th Anniversary Medals & Certificates.

On the list of recipients for the Bronze medal – the first level of the recognition program – were Kyle Verhayden – 2^nd Continental Artillery Reg.; Claira Golden – 2^nd Continental Artillery Reg.; Coleen Verhayden – 2^nd Continental Artillery Reg. and Dwight McGee – 2^nd Continental Artillery Reg. and Brian Companion – 2^nd Continental Artillery Reg.

Educator and historian Patrick Niles, a driving force behind Washington County's 250^th Anniversary Committee, was presented the SAR's Bronze 250^th Anniversary Medal by Chapter VP Michael Skelly, who nominated Niles for the recognition.

During the meeting, Niles presented a detailed overview of efforts underway and in planning to recognize and commemorate the 250^th anniversary of the American Revolution.

Receiving the Silver Medal – the program's next level before Gold – were Andrew Companion, Tim Butler, Mike Golden, Bob Wesser, Mary Skelly, Jake Ver Hayden, David Wren, Bradley Allen, Brian Companion, Michael Companion and Mike Skelly.

The SAR recognition program is designed to recognize those compatriots, chapters, societies and partner organizations who participate in local, state, national and international events which recognize and honor our Patriot ancestors and the events of the American Revolution.

The Anniversary period begins in 2024 with the 250^th Anniversary of Parliament's passing the Sugar Act. It extends to 2033 with the signing of the Treaty of Paris.

Medals are earned with a point system based on level of participation in celebrations bringing attention to the 250^th Anniversary Period.

Also receiving medals during the September 15 meeting were Vice President Michael R. Skelly and President Edward Munger Jr. Both received the Bronze Roger Sherman medal which recognizes compatriots who serve as an officer for more than two years.

The medal is named after Roger Sherman (1721 – 1793), a Founding Father and the only person to sign all four Congressional papers of the United States: the Continental Association, the Declaration of Independence, the Articles of Confederation and the U.S. Constitution.