Volume XXVII, Number 1 Page 1 June 2017 GGRC Participation in the Ewington Chapter Outstanding Citizenship Awards Ceremony

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Genl George Rogers Clark on The March to Vincennes by Frederich Coffay Yohn, 1929

Citizenship Awards Ceremony The Ewington Chapter, Illinois Society Sons of the

The awards ceremony was held on Tuesday, April 18, 2017, at the First Baptist Church

1 Genl George Rogers Clark on The March to Vincennes by Frederich Coffay Yohn, 1929 Volume XXVII, Number 1 Page 1 GGRC Participation in the Ewington Chapter Outstanding Citizenship Awards Ceremony The Ewington Chapter, Illinois Society Sons of the American Revolution recognized outstanding seniors from local high schools. The awards ceremony was held on Tuesday, April 18, 2017, at the First Baptist Church in Effingham. Jim DeGroff, and Bob Ridenour of the GGRC Chapter participated by acting as part of the color guard.

Volume XXVII, Number 1 Page 2 GGRC Chapter Outstanding Citizenship Awards Eighteen high school students were recognized with Outstanding Citizenship Awards from the Genl George Rogers Clark Chapter

2 Volume XXVII, Number 1 Page 2 GGRC Chapter Outstanding Citizenship Awards Eighteen high school students were recognized with Outstanding Citizenship Awards from the Genl George Rogers Clark Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution. The ceremony took place April 26, 2017, at the First Christian Church in Edwardsville. The students were nominated by their schools based on their dependability, cooperative spirit, leadership, service to their school and community, evidence of personal values, and patriotism. Local honorees included: Tristan Counts, Alton Sr. H.S.; Emily Klaas, Brussels H.S.; Cassidy Taylor, Bunker Hill H.S.; Wesley Klocke, Calhoun H.S.; Elizabeth Bland, Carrollton H.S.; Jaxsen Helmkamp, Civic Memorial H.S.; Zachary Otero, Collinsville H.S.; Brenden Allen, E. Alton-Wood River H.S.; Max Hartman, Edwardsville H.S.; Hannah Doty, Gillespie H.S.; Johannah Comish, Highland H.S.; Brooke Ernst, Litchfield Sr. H.S.; Karoline Lauritzen, Marquette Catholic H.S.; Braden Woolsey, Metro East Lutheran H.S.; Abigail Labonte, Mt. Olive H.S.; McKinzi Warnisher, Nokomis H.S.; Sydney Owsley, Roxana H.S.; Jonathan McEmery, Staunton H.S. Each recipient received a certificate and a pin. The SAR Outstanding Citizenship Award is presented in recognition of the recipient s furthering of American citizenship principles. Emily Klaas, Brussels H.S., was also the winner of the chapter s $500 scholarship given in memory of long-time member Charles Burgess. GGRC Chapter Chairman Harry Nelson said, The SAR has been instrumental in promoting the qualities of dependability, cooperation, leadership, and patriotism in the community and nation-wide for many years. We are pleased to honor these outstanding students. Each year the chapter invites high schools in the Madison, Jersey, Macoupin, Bond, Calhoun, Greene, and Montgomery Counties to select one young man or woman from their senior class. (l-r) Front row: Hannah Doty, Brenden Allen, Compatriot Jerry Oglesby, Max Hartman, Elizabeth Bland, Cassidy Taylor, Karoline Lauritzen, Abigail Labonte, GGRC Chapter President Charles Dobias Back row: Compatriot Bob Kilzer, McKinzi Warnisher, Compatriot Robert Ridenour, Jonathan McEmery, Zachary Otero, Johannah Comish, Tristan Counts, Emily Klaas, Compatriot Jim DeGroff, Chapter Outstanding Citizenship Awards Chairman Harry Nelson

Volume XXVII, Number 1 Page 3 Illinois SAR Society Annual Meeting At the Illinois SAR Society Annual Meeting, May 12, 2017, in Springfield, Illinois, five SAR chapters were awarded the Joel Willis

These awards were accepted by the following: John Dryud, Fort Dearborn Chapter; Jeff Kretlow, Gen Joseph Bartholomew Chapter; Michael Campagnolo, Fox Valley Chapter; Robert Ridenour, Genl George

3 Volume XXVII, Number 1 Page 3 Illinois SAR Society Annual Meeting At the Illinois SAR Society Annual Meeting, May 12, 2017, in Springfield, Illinois, five SAR chapters were awarded the Joel Willis Newsletter Award. These awards were accepted by the following: John Dryud, Fort Dearborn Chapter; Jeff Kretlow, Gen Joseph Bartholomew Chapter; Michael Campagnolo, Fox Valley Chapter; Robert Ridenour, Genl George Rogers Clark Chapter, Drew Robinson, Springfield and Decatur Chapters At the Illinois SAR Society Annual Meeting, May 12, 2017, in Springfield, Illinois, seven ILSSAR compatriots were awarded the Roger Sherman Bronze Medal in recognition of outstanding services rendered to a chapter. Shown in the photo are (l-r): Toby Chamberlain, President ILSSAR, presenting the medals; Kevin Babb, State Chancellor, Genl George Rogers Clark Chapter; Bill Wheeler, Fort Dearborn Chapter; Robert Ridenour, Genl George Rogers Clark Chapter; Drew Robinson, Springfield and Decatur Chapters; Dale Bottom, Fox Valley Chapter; Dan Crafton, Lewis and Clark Chapter; and Michael Murray, American Bicentennial Chapter

Volume XXVII, Number 1 Page 4 Illinois SAR Society Annual Meeting Genl George Rogers Clark Chapter President Charles Dobias (l) applauds to congratulate Richard Ruedin as he receives the Sons of the

The national SAR award recognizes a SAR member who has displayed outstanding work accomplishment and dedication to the Scouting Program.

4 Volume XXVII, Number 1 Page 4 Illinois SAR Society Annual Meeting Genl George Rogers Clark Chapter President Charles Dobias (l) applauds to congratulate Richard Ruedin as he receives the Sons of the American Revolution Robert E. Burt Boy Scout Volunteer Award from State President Toby Chamberlain. The national SAR award recognizes a SAR member who has displayed outstanding work accomplishment and dedication to the Scouting Program. Ruedin has been actively involved in scouting since 1957 and is currently serving as Assistant Scout Master of Troop 7 in Alton. Members of the GGRC Chapter routinely attend Boy Scout Courts of Honor to present certificates and badges to Eagle Scouts. Jim DeGroff, Genl George Rogers Clark Chapter Registrar, is presented with the Roger Sherman Silver Medal in recognition of outstanding services rendered to ILSSAR. Jim was instrumental in adding over 40 new members to the Genl George Rogers Clark Chapter and also developed a new Illinois SAR trifold brochure.

Volume XXVII, Number 1 Page 5 Illinois SAR Society Annual Meeting Charles Dobias (R), state JROTC chairman, presents an award to JROTC Cadet Jacob Steward.

The Bronze JROTC award is the second highest award given by the state society and includes a certificate, medal, and monetary award.

5 Volume XXVII, Number 1 Page 5 Illinois SAR Society Annual Meeting Charles Dobias (R), state JROTC chairman, presents an award to JROTC Cadet Jacob Steward. Cadet Jacob Steward from the Alton, Illinois High School Junior Reserve Officer Training Program received the Bronze JROTC Award from the Illinois State Society Sons of the American Revolution. The Bronze JROTC award is the second highest award given by the state society and includes a certificate, medal, and monetary award. The award was given during the Illinois Society s Youth and Community Awards Luncheon held at the Abraham Lincoln Hotel in Springfield on May 13, Cadet Steward was sponsored by the Genl George Rogers Clark Chapter. Members of the Gateway Dulcimer Society provided entertainment at the Annual Meeting.

Volume XXVII, Number 1 Page 6 Illinois SAR Society Annual Meeting The Charles and Eleanor Schweizer History Teacher Award was won by Krysta Graves of Golconda, Illinois.

6 Volume XXVII, Number 1 Page 6 Illinois SAR Society Annual Meeting The Charles and Eleanor Schweizer History Teacher Award was won by Krysta Graves of Golconda, Illinois. Shown here are (l-r): Compatriot Jim DeGroff History Teacher Award Chairman, Krysta Graves, and Jim Wallace, President Longknives SAR Chapter Illinois Ladies Auxiliary Sons of the American Revolution Silent Auction The atmosphere surrounding the 2017 Illinois Ladies Auxiliary Sons of the American Revolution silent auction was anything but silent. When the last bid was made and the results were announced, the auxiliary had raised $1,380 thanks to the generosity of attendees and those who donated. At the auxiliary meeting the next morning, it was voted to donate $1,000 to the Illinois SAR, $500 to the Center for Advancing American Heritage, $100 to Ms. Cilla Tomme s shoe project; and $100 to the National Ladies Auxiliary in lieu of providing an auction basket. Following the meeting, many of the ladies toured the Dana Thomas House. It only costs $5.00 a year to belong to the Illinois Ladies Auxiliary. Each time the state board of management meets, the auxiliary meets too. Often we have a program or take a tour. Other times we just enjoy each other s company. Membership is open to wives, mothers, daughters, sisters, aunts, nieces and other women relatives of members of the Sons of the American Revolution who are in good standing. Contact State President Sue Chamberlain for more information.

7 Volume XXVII, Number 1 Page 7 Illinois SAR Society Annual Meeting Bidders checking to see status of their bids. President Toby Chamberlain thanks the auxiliary members.

Volume XXVII, Number 1 Page 8 Illinois SAR Society Annual Meeting Highland, Illinois, EMS paramedic Todd Zobrist was named as the recipient of the Illinois Society Sons of the American Revolution s

8 Volume XXVII, Number 1 Page 8 Illinois SAR Society Annual Meeting Highland, Illinois, EMS paramedic Todd Zobrist was named as the recipient of the Illinois Society Sons of the American Revolution s Hero award during the Youth and Community Awards ceremony held at the Abraham Lincoln Hotel in Springfield on May 13. The luncheon was part of the Illinois Society s annual meeting. Zobrist was nominated for the award by the Genl George Rogers Clark Chapter. Zobrist was unable to attend the luncheon. The award will be presented to him at an upcoming GGRC meeting. Zobrist was one of a team of Highland EMS personnel who responded to a call of a car in the water at nearby Silver Lake. What was found was an SUV nearly completely submerged by water. The water temperature was about 46 degrees on the early morning of March 16. Zobrist removed his clothing and went out in the water to the vehicle, swimming, he said, in order to get there faster. Reaching into the SUV, Zobrist touched what he initially thought was a toy. Instead, it was a three-month old boy who, although he was not breathing, had color indicating life. Zobrist placed the child on the vehicle roof and began CPR. The child began breathing; and Zobrist swam back to the shore carrying the baby so that both could receive further medical treatment. The humble Zobrist did not like to be singled out for his efforts, instead insisting that the whole team be recognized. However, it was Zobrist, alone, who literally risked his life to save the life of the infant. The child was treated and released from a hospital a few days later. Zobrist was treated for hypothermia. The driver of the vehicle, the child s mother, did not survive. The First responders, Highland Fire-EMS paramedics, Highland police officers, and emergency dispatcher, were all honored for their efforts at an award ceremony at Highland City Hall on April 17, 2017

Volume XXVII, Number 1 Page 9 Memorial Day Parades The Genl George Rogers Clark Chapter was pleased to participate in two parades this Memorial Day.

Compatriots participating in Troy were (l-r): Philip Bailey, Bob Kilzer, Jim DeGroff, Anthony Robison, and Richard Mantz. Four GGRC members participated in the Alton Memorial Day parade.

9 Volume XXVII, Number 1 Page 9 Memorial Day Parades The Genl George Rogers Clark Chapter was pleased to participate in two parades this Memorial Day. The Genl George Rogers Clark Chapter members were honored to be chosen to lead the inaugural Memorial Day parade in Troy, Illinois. Compatriots participating in Troy were (l-r): Philip Bailey, Bob Kilzer, Jim DeGroff, Anthony Robison, and Richard Mantz. Four GGRC members participated in the Alton Memorial Day parade. (l-r) Richard Ruedin, Robert Ridenour, and Jerry Oglesby. Al Oleson drove the truck but was not available for the photo. This marked the 150 th year for the Alton parade. This parade is considered to be the longest running Memorial Day parade in the country. It was a great tribute to remember those who gave their all that we have the freedoms we enjoy today.

Volume XXVII, Number 1 Page 10 New Members Welcome our newest chapter

They received their membership certificates from chapter president

GGRC Member Certificates At the May 17, 2017 luncheon meeting,

Members Disabled Veteran Certificates Chuck Dobias (l) presents Walt

10 Volume XXVII, Number 1 Page 10 New Members Welcome our newest chapter members Dan and Isaac Williams. They received their membership certificates from chapter president Charles Dobias at an evening meeting of the chapter April 20, GGRC Member Certificates At the May 17, 2017 luncheon meeting, Chapter President Chuck Dobias presented Certificates to several GGRC Members Disabled Veteran Certificates Chuck Dobias (l) presents Walt Harris with a Disabled Veteran Certificate Chuck Dobias (l) presents Paul Kelso with a Disabled Veteran Certificate

Larkin Rutherford. He served in Col. George Rogers Clark s Illinois Regiment.

11 Volume XXVII, Number 1 Page 11 War Service Certificate and Medal Chuck Dobias (l) presents Bill Emery with a War Service Certificate and Medal Members of the Genl George Rogers Clark and Long Knives Chapters served as color guard for the dedication in honor of Pvt Larkin Rutherford. He served in Col. George Rogers Clark s Illinois Regiment. The ceremony was sponsored by the Belleville Chapter DAR in conjunction with the O Fallon Historical Society. The ceremony was held at the Shiloh Valley Cemetery, Shiloh, Illinois, on May 20, 2017

Montgomery County to present their 28 Historic Flag Program. Also on display were the flags of all 50 of the United States.

12 Volume XXVII, Number 1 Page 12 Flag Day Program Montgomery Co. Courthouse, Hillsboro, Illinois June 10, 2017 On June 10, 2017, the Genl George Rogers Clark Chapter SAR traveled to Hillsboro in Montgomery County to present their 28 Historic Flag Program. Also on display were the flags of all 50 of the United States. Nine Compatriots from the Genl George Rogers Clark Chapter participated. Back Row (l-r): Bob Ridenour, Chuck Dobias, Bill Johnson, John Stanton, and Justin Ottolini Front Row (l-r): Rich Reudin, Jim DeGroff, Chuck Casey, and Marv Meng

Volume XXVII, Number 1 Page 13 New Members GGRC President Charles Dobias welcomes two of the chapter s newest members: Ty (R) and Troy Gansmann Grave Marking of Adonijah

Illinois. Adonijah was born June 11, 1758 or 59, in New Milford, Connecticut. Removing to Vermont, he entered the army under Capt.

Adonijah, with several others, escaped, and upon arrival back near their home, were recaptured and returned to prison. He was finally released in 1781.

13 Volume XXVII, Number 1 Page 13 New Members GGRC President Charles Dobias welcomes two of the chapter s newest members: Ty (R) and Troy Gansmann Grave Marking of Adonijah Griswold On June 25, 2017, the Genl George Rogers Clark Chapter formally marked the grave of Revolutionary War Patriot Adonijah Griswold at North Cemetery near White Hall, Illinois. Adonijah was born June 11, 1758 or 59, in New Milford, Connecticut. Removing to Vermont, he entered the army under Capt. Barnum and Major Gideon Brown, where he served as a scout. He was taken prisoner in 1778 and confined at Quebec, Canada. Adonijah, with several others, escaped, and upon arrival back near their home, were recaptured and returned to prison. He was finally released in About 1830, they moved to Illinois and settled near White Hall in Greene County. He was a farmer and raised 10 children. Adonijah died in Peoria, September 1, 1841, but was buried in the North Family cemetery near White Hall. Billye Griswold Reads Tribute to Adonijah Griswold Jim DeGroff Salutes the Veteran During Taps

Volume XXVII, Number 1 Page 14 The ceremony was attended by eight Compatriots from the Genl George Rogers Clark Chapter SAR, three members of the Apple Creek Prairie Chapter DAR, two members of the

14 Volume XXVII, Number 1 Page 14 The ceremony was attended by eight Compatriots from the Genl George Rogers Clark Chapter SAR, three members of the Apple Creek Prairie Chapter DAR, two members of the Ninian Edwards Chapter DAR, and one member of the Silver Creek Chapter DAR. (l-r): Bob Kilzer, Anthony Robison, John Griswold, Bob Ridenour, Jim DeGroff, Chuck Dobias, Mary Francis Tunison, Suzanne Roodhouse, Janie Bland, Jerry Oglesby (behind), Chuck Casey. Mary Francis Tunison, Suzanne Roodhouse, and John Griswold are descendants of Adonijah Griswold. One of the Apple Creek Prairie DAR members, Billye Griswold; the Ninian Edwards DAR members, Ferne Ridenour and Rose Oglesby: as well as the Silver Creek DAR member, Sharon Kilzer are not in the photo. Those who expect to reap the blessings of freedom, must, like men, undergo the fatigue of supporting it. Thomas Paine The Long Knife is a quarterly publication of the Genl. George Rogers Clark Chapter, Illinois Society, Sons of the American Revolution. Robert W. Ridenour, Editor; Lola DeGroff, Associate Editor Send announcements, items of interest and member news to: Editor, The Long Knife, 4814 Loop Rd, Dorsey, IL ; rwridenour@wildblue.net; phone: (618) ; FAX: (618) Scheduled monthly luncheon meetings: 11:30 a.m., the third Wednesday of each month at Edwardsville Moose Lodge, 7371 Marine Rd. (Rt. 143), unless announced otherwise.

Volume XXVI, Number 3 Page 1 December 2016 Death of Member Melvin Mel Jones

Genl George Rogers Clark on The March to Vincennes by Frederich Coffay Yohn, 1929 Volume XXVI, Number 3 Page 1 Death of Member Melvin Mel Jones Melvin Mel J. Jones, 85, of Collinsville, Illinois, born