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What we do
The chapter and its members participate in a number of
activities designed to further the goals of the Society. A sample is provided
here.
Chapter
Meetings
We pride ourselves on the quality of our programs and
speakers. As much as possible, topics are related to historical topics and, of
course, several each year are devoted to the American Revolution.
JROTC Recognition
and Awards
For over a decade the Tampa Chapter of the Sons of the
American Revolution has provided the SAR JROTC medal for local JROTC units in
order that a deserving cadet in each unit may be recognized. These cadets are
invited to our April luncheon meeting at which time we present the award. The
members truly have enjoyed meeting the cadets and their families. The
conversation is always lively and the programs are specifically geared to the
cadets. In addition, the National and State Societies of the SAR conduct a
contest in conjunction with the JROTC awards. At the state level cash awards
are given for the top three places. There are addition awards at the national
level. In order to qualify, the cadet must be in the third year of a four-year
program or second year of a three-year program, and be deemed the unit’s most
outstanding cadet by the commander. Additional information can be found at www.sar.org.
Color
Guard
In December 2006, the Tampa Chapter formed a color guard as
part of the Florida Society’s “Sons of Liberty Brigade”. Named “The
Hillsborough River Camp”, the unit’s first appearance was for the annual
Civic
Awards
As part of its charter the Sons of the American Revolution seeks
to promote Patriotism. One method of furthering this goal is to recognize
and honor Law Enforcement Officers and Fire Safety Personnel with awards for
their acts of service. The recipient may be honored for an act of heroism or
for long and devoted service in serving our communities. The Tampa Chapter
makes two awards each year at a monthly meeting. The Fire Safety Commendation
Award- for exceptional service by fire service, emergency response, and fire
insurance personnel and the Law Enforcement Award- for exceptional service by
police, state troopers, and officers of the courts.
Wreaths
Across America
For several years the chapter has supported the Wreaths
Across America program. This
organization lays Christmas wreaths at the graves of veterans. The Chapter has
donated funds to the project and the Color Guard has participated in the
ceremonies at a local cemetery.
Honor
Flights
We support the “Honor Flight” program which provides free
travel to Washington D.C. for WWII veterans so that they might see the memorial
in Washington D.C. and have the service to our country appreciated anew. Our
color guard gathers at the Tampa Airport to greet the veterans returning from
their time in Washington.
Children
of the American Revolution (C.A.R.)
The Tampa Chapter has held a joint meeting with the Fort
Brooke Society of the Children of the American Revolution for many years
seeking to support this fine organization for children and youth.
Youth
Contests
The National and Florida Societies offer oratorical and
essay contests for high school students, a poster contest for elementary students,
and a competition for Eagle Scouts. The Tampa Chapter, while not holding a
local contest, gladly works with youth wishing to compete in the state events.
Flag
Awards
We promote the proper display of the American Flag by recognizing
those flying the flag for non-commercial purposes.