Color Guard
One of the most successful and popular ways the SAR has of educating the public about the American Revolution is by personal representation. A great way to do this is through the chapter’s color guard organization where compatriots dress in uniform to attend public ceremonies, parades, and visit classrooms to present awards or give history presentations to students.
The Dr. V. Edward Masters Memorial Color Guard was formed in 1996 as a traditional Continental Line unit with uniforms adapted from the style worn by the 1st Virginia Regiment, Continental Line. Dr. Masters was chapter president in 1995, and it was under his leadership the color guard was formed, the first in the Kentucky Society. Daniel Klinck served as Commander from its inception in 1996 until 2016. Under his leadership over the years, the organization expanded from four to as many as twenty members at one time.
Today, the Louisville Thruston Chapter has two color guard units – the Continental/Militia unit and the Blue Blazer unit. Both units are critical to the chapter and often work together at events and ceremonies. The Continental/Militia unit wears military uniforms and participates in more formal events like grave markings, opening ceremonies and historical programs. They wear Continental Line uniforms as well as militia outfits and represent the American military during the Revolutionary War.
Blue Blazer color guard participates in many of the same events as the Continental Line/Militia color guard, but they do not wear military uniforms. The dress code is more casual, and the uniform consists of a blue blazer, khaki pants, tie, and a SAR ball cap. The Blue Blazer unit participates in events when a military color guard is not required such as education programs, funeral visits, speaking engagements, and as dinner guests when representing the SAR. The Blue Blazer unit provides members with the opportunity to represent the SAR at events without the additional time and uniform required by more formal color guard activities.
Both color guard units report to the Color Guard Commander, and the formation and activity of each unit depends on the type of ceremony and the event location.
As a Louisville Thruston Chapter member, you are warmly invited to join our color guard. No unique skills are needed to join, and there are training and practice sessions to learn the proper way to carry flags, present wreaths, salute, and escort guests. It’s a fun activity and a great way to get involved in chapter activities.
