James Monroe's 259th Birthday Celebration Ceremony

28 Apr 2017         Hollywood Cemetery, Richmond, VA

     14 compatriots from 8 chapters participated in James Monroe's 259th Birthday Celebration Ceremony today at his tomb in Hollywood Cemetery, overlooking the James River in Richmond.  3rd Vice President Bill Schwetke led the Virginia Society representatives and presented the Virginia SAR wreath.  Wreaths were also presented by the following chapters: Colonel Fielding Lewis, Colonel William Grayson, Culpeper Minutemen, James Monroe, Richard Henry Lee, Richmond, Thomas Nelson, Jr, and Williamsburg. The CMM were represented by Mike Lyman and Bill Schwetke.  Registrar Bill Schwetke presented the CMM wreath. 
     The program began with Brigadier General David Wilson, Army Chief of Ordnance, representing President Trump in placing a wreath at Monroe's tomb.  General Wilson then delivered remarks.  The colors were presented by the U.S. Army Ordnance School Honor Guard.
     The keynote speaker was former Governor of Virginia James S. Gilmore, III.  Richmond Chapter compatriot Peter Broadbent acted as master of ceremonies for the wreath laying.
     The recently restored cage around James Monroe's tomb looks splendid in it's restored original color.

General Wilson presents the President's wreath.

James Gilmore, III, 68th Governor of Virginia delivers the keynote address.

Virginia SAR 3rd Vice President Bill Schwetke presents remarks on behalf of the Virginia Society.

Virginia Society compatriots in front of the restored tomb. Mike Lyman is second from the left and Bill Schwetke is in the center background with hat.