Memorial Day (May 27, 2024)
Compatriot and past chapter president Rodney McKelroy and Leonard Rohrbough participated in the Memorial Day Ceremony at Southeast Louisiana Veterans Cemetery. PGR chapter has been invited to place a wreath for many years, along with several other patriotic organizations at the memorial pavilion during a very somber remembrance of the sacrifices made by those that protect our freedom every day. Three former service members interred over the last 12 months were chosen to have their illustrious carriers and their continued lifelong public service read by administrative staff. One service member was represented by the presence of his widow and another family member.
Colonial Days Celebration at Our Lady of the Lake School (May 21, 2024)
I have been doing this for about 5 years now in uniform. This year Compatriots Leonard Rohrbough and Paul Guidry, along with the Pierre de Mandeville chapter DAR mad a presentation to the 5th grade students of Our Lady of the Lake Catholic church in Mandeville. They have a Colonial Days celebration in the last week of school. About 50 kids dress in various colonial attire and this year they surprised us with 3 “King Georges”. The DAR ladies presented stories of the heroin's of the revolution and the 200 anniversary of Marquis de La Fayatte’s grand return tour to the United States. Compatriots Rohrbough and Guidry spoke about the uniforms and the histories of our ancestors that wore them and various aspects of colonial life.
Red River Cadet Receives SAR Honors (April 13, 2024)
The Louisiana Society of the Sons of American Revolution, honored Pearl River High School NJROTC Cadet Michael Keller with the Outstanding JROTC Cadet for the State of Louisiana. Cadet Keller was awarded the JROTC Silver Medallion and Scholarship check during the Youth Awards portion of the Society’s annual meeting held in Lafayette. Cadet Keller was recommended by his Naval Science Instructor and School Principal for his outstanding academic and leadership achievements during the 2023-24 school year. Cadet Keller also submitted a well composed essay regarding the merits and experiences with the NJROTC program. Keller’s potential for leadership was recognized with a promotion to Cadet LT in charge of Operations. Presenting the award is SAR Compatriot, Rodney McKelroy LTC (USAR Ret).
Members Share Breakfast Time Despite Heat Warnings (August 2023)
Pierre Georges Rousseau members enjoying the gentle warm breezes off the Tchefuncte River. Joel, Leonard and Rodney sat outside of the Abita Roasting Co. in Madisonville, LA for a bite of breakfast and a sip of coffee despite the excessive heat warning. Great time visiting friends
Chapter Holds December Meeting
The Pierre George Rousseau Chapter recently held its Christmas gathering in the home of President Rodney and Amanda McKelroy. As is custom, there was a brief pause in the festivities to recognize individual accomplishments. For his continued service in support of ancestry research and sponsoring new applicants, Joel Whitehead received the SAR Liberty Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster. For their years of service to the chapter Tom Jacks and Leonard Rohrbough each received a 25 Year Certificate. Tom Jacks accepted on behalf of his sons David, Collin and Clay Jacks 15 Year Certificates. Everyone enjoyed getting together socializing during the most joyous time of the year.
Members Participate in Veterans Day Program at Mandeville Junior High (November 11, 2022)
Students and staff of Mandeville Junior High School remembered Veterans Day with a commemorative program on Friday November 11th, 2022. Henry Motty, Louisiana Society, Sons of American Revolution (SAR) Teacher of the Year Award recipient, planned the program to include the SAR, Pierre George Rousseau Chapter color guard. Uniformed members were Tom Jacks, George Clemenceau, and Paul Guidry. Each member shared a short bio of their Revoluonary War ancestor. Other chapter members who shared military service experiences were Joel Whitehead, (Ret. Adm. USCG) and Michael Nation.
Chapter Member Visits Classroom (September 2022)
Tom Jacks, SAR Minuteman Award recipient and member of the Pierre Georges Rousseau Chapter, leads a lesson of the American Revolution at Mandeville Junior High, while depicting his ancestor’s uniform of the Virginia Continental Line. His lovely young daughter, Kathleen, was proud and excited of her father’s service to the community.
Memorial Day (May 30, 2022)
Rodney McKelroy, President of the Perrie Georges Rousseau, Louisiana Society Sons of American Revolution, lays a wreath during Memorial Day services at the Southeast Louisiana Veterans Cemetery near Slidell, Louisiana.
Marker Rededication
Perrie Georges Rousseau Chapter of the SAR, Perrie de Mandeville Chapter of the DAR and, The City of Mandeville gathered at the intersection of Lakeshore Dr and Girod St., in Mandeville to rededicate the historical marker commemorating the Battle of Lake Pontchartrain. The marker was damaged during Hurricane Ida. Mr. Gary Songy was contacted to repaint the marker. The Battle took place on 10 September 1779. The British signed a formal surrender relinquishing their interest in the colony of Louisiana on 16 October 1799 and officially ending the Revolutionary War in Louisiana. Pictured left to right are PGR Chapter members -Jim Heap, Paul Guidry, Leonard Rohrbough, Rodney McKelroy, and Henry Motty as well as the Mayor of Mandeville, Clay Madden.
Chapter Holds Annual Lexington Concord Banquet (April 19, 2022)
The Pierre George Rousseau Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution held its annual Lexington and Concord commemorative dinner meeting 19 April 2022, 247 years to the date of the actual event. The venue was the beautiful Benedicts Plantation in Mandeville. Chapter President, Rodney McKelroy gave a short presentation on the Battle at Eutaw Springs. Special guests included the President of the Louisiana State Society SAR, Jeffery Nolen as well as the Vice President General of the Southern District SAR, Bradly Hayes and his wife Sarah.
(October 14, 2021)
On October 14th in Covington, Pierre Georges Rousseau Chapter President George Clemenceau presented a wreath for the 100th Anniversary Commemoration of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier dedication. This is a touring exhibit of a half scale replica of the Tomb. VP Leonard Rohrbough also attended the event on behalf of the Chapter.
Color Guard Participates in Sparks in the Park (July 3, 2021)
On July 3rd members of the Pierre Georges Rousseau Chapter presented the colors before the playing/singing of the Star-Spangled Banner at the "Sparks in the Park" event sponsored by the city of Covington. It was quite a large crowd attending the performance of the Covington Concert Band (Chapter President Clemenceau is a member). Our Chapter guard marched to the Drumbeat of Mr. Andrew Moran playing a replica colonial period drum (see photo, note the pelican logo!). The city and the Band Director were pleased to have us participate and support the community with an historic flair!
Members Place Wreath at South East Louisiana Veterans Cemetery (May 31, 2021)
Chapter Hosts Lexington and Concord Banquet (April 20, 2021)
The Pierre Georges Rousseau SAR, Lexington and Concord Banquet was held on April 20th. The photo is of Chapter President George Clemenceau and our guest speaker Dr. Samantha Cavell, Assistant Professor of Military History
Southeastern Louisiana University
Dr. Cavell spoke to us about "The Birth of the Continental Navy - and the start of the Marblehead “fleet” in 1775"
Southeastern Louisiana University
Dr. Cavell spoke to us about "The Birth of the Continental Navy - and the start of the Marblehead “fleet” in 1775"
PGR Chapter Marks Bankston Grave (November 21, 2020)
On November 21st the SAR Pierre Georges Rousseau Chapter of Covington held a Grave Marking Ceremony for Pvt John Bankston at the Dyson Family Cemetery in Kentwood, LA. Patriot Bankston was honored for his service as a private in the Georgia Troops during the Revolutionary War. He also served in the War of 1812. His grave (1823-27?) is supposedly one of the oldest if not the oldest in Tangipahoa Parish, LA. In attendance at the ceremony were members of 4 of the families who descend from Pvt Bankston. The colors were presented by color guard of the PGR Chapter.
New Members for PGR (October 21, 2020)
Six new members were inducted into the Pierre Georges Rousseau Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution on Oct 21st, 2020 at the 20th annual Victory at Yorktown dinner held at Keith Young’s in Madisonville. L-R, Michael Nation, Jack Winstead, Paul Guidry, Milton Mary Jr., Larry Gunn, and Griff Mehaffey.
Pierre Georges Rousseau Chapter President George Clemenceau presents the Sons of the American Revolution Meritorious Service Medal to past President RADM(ret) Joel Whitehead at their Victory at Yorktown Annual dinner on Oct 21st.
Pierre Georges Rousseau Chapter President George Clemenceau presents the Sons of the American Revolution Meritorious Service Medal to past President RADM(ret) Joel Whitehead at their Victory at Yorktown Annual dinner on Oct 21st.
Chapter Members Present Colors in Heritage Park (October 13, 2019)
Pierre George Rousseau Chapter, Sons of American Revolution presents the colors during the Northshore Community Orchestra’s Fall Concert at Heritage Park in Slidell, Sunday 13 October. Presenting the colors are Tom Jacks, Rodney McKelroy, and Leonard Rohrbough.
New Member Induction Using a New Patriot - John "Indian Creek" MacKelroy
Cullman, Ala – Pierre Georges Rousseau Chapter, member Rodney S. McKelroy Jr., inducts Virgil T. McKleroy Jr. into the Sons of American Revolution. Rodney and Virgil became acquainted after a DNA test match. Both have the same common patriot ancestor in John “Indian Creek” MacKelroy, who served in the Militia from Wake County, North Carolina. It appears that Virgil’s application is the first to successfully document kinship to the patriot in both SAR and DAR databases. Since DNA evidence is being included as a source of proof, Rodney’s supplemental application is still waiting approval. Also pictured are two dear cousins, Delores Brooks and Linda Mardis. Both ladies were instrumental providing assistance with research for both Rodney and Virgil.
Chapter Welcomes New Members (October 16, 2018)
Pierre George Rousseau Chapter held its “Victory at Yorktown” Commemoration Meeting Tuesday 16 October at “The Dakota” Restaurant in Covington Louisiana. The featured guest speaker was Mr. Robert Gray Freeland, Vice President for Membership at the “Friends of the Cabildo”. He made a presentation entitled “Recovered Memories: Spain, New Orleans and the Support for the American Revolution.” His speech to our chapter took us on a chronological journey of Spanish-American relations, beginning with Spain’s own Age of Enlightenment during the reign of Charles III through the times of European and American revolutions. The PGR Officers inducted three new members into the chapter. Pictured left to right are: Joel Whitehead, (President), John Cassidy, Jerome Smith, Leonard Rohrbough, (Vice President) and Russ Copping.
Chapter Presents Colors (October 14, 2018)
Pierre George Rousseau Chapter, Sons of American Revolution presents the colors during the Northshore Community Orchestra’s Fall Concert at Heritage Park in Slidell, Sunday 14 October. Presenting the colors are Rodney McKelroy, Leonard Rohrbough, Tom Jacks and Northshore JROTC Cadet Wyatt Lewis.
SAR Honors JROTC Lumberjack Cadet Sponsored by Pierre Georges Rousseau Chapter (April 21, 2018)
The Louisiana Society of the Sons of American Revolution, honored JROTC Lumberjack Battalion Cadet Imani Jefferson with the Outstanding JROTC Cadet for the State of Louisiana. Cadet Jefferson received the JROTC Silver Medallion and Scholarship check during the Youth Awards portion of the Society’s annual meeting held near the grounds of the State Capital, Baton Rouge. Cadet Jefferson was recommended by her Military Science Instructor and School Principal for her outstanding academic and leadership achievements during the 2017-18 school year. Cadet Jefferson also submitted a well composed essay regarding the merits and experiences with the JROTC program. Jefferson’s potential for leadership was recognized with a promotion to Cadet Commander of the Lumberjack Battalion. Presenting the award is the SAR Compatriot, Rodney McKelroy LTC (USAR Ret).
Chapter Holds Christmas 2017 Celebration
Pierre George Rousseau Chapter held its annual Christmas gathering at the beautiful home of PGR President, Joel Whitehead, and his lovely wife, Martha. Chapter Vice President, Leonard Rohrbough, sponsored newly inductee, George Clemenceau, and pins the SAR Rosette to his lapel. President Whitehead presents Mr. Clemenceau with his certificate of membership into the National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution. Mrs. Whitehead treated all who attended the gathering to a Christmas feast that won't soon be forgotten. Stories were told, plans were made, comradery and friendships enjoyed. Merry Christmas!
Pierre Georges Rousseau Chapter Participates In Memorial Day Activities
Photo 1: Pierre Georges Rousseau Chapter’s Color Guard members Rodney McKelroy and Leonard Rohrbough in prayer at Slidell National Cemetery’s Memorial Day commemoration.
Photo 2: The Pierre Georges Rousseau Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution celebrated Memorial Day at the Slidell National Cemetery. Pictured (L to R) are Immediate Past President Rodney McKelroy, Governor John Bel Edwards and Past State and Pierre Georges Rousseau Chapter President Leonard Rohrbough.
Photo 3: Pierre Georges Rousseau Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution members with presentation wreath at Memorial Day ceremony at the Slidell National Cemetery. Pictured (L to R) are Past State and Pierre Georges Rousseau Chapter President Leonard Rohrbough, Secretary/Treasurer Dr. Richard Dickey, President Joel Whitehead and Immediate Past President Rodney McKelroy.
Photo 2: The Pierre Georges Rousseau Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution celebrated Memorial Day at the Slidell National Cemetery. Pictured (L to R) are Immediate Past President Rodney McKelroy, Governor John Bel Edwards and Past State and Pierre Georges Rousseau Chapter President Leonard Rohrbough.
Photo 3: Pierre Georges Rousseau Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution members with presentation wreath at Memorial Day ceremony at the Slidell National Cemetery. Pictured (L to R) are Past State and Pierre Georges Rousseau Chapter President Leonard Rohrbough, Secretary/Treasurer Dr. Richard Dickey, President Joel Whitehead and Immediate Past President Rodney McKelroy.
Pierre Georges Rousseau Chapter Hears From Commander, 8th Coast Guard District (April 19, 2017)
The Pierre Georges Rousseau Chapter of the Louisiana Sons of the American Revolution celebrated the two opening battles of the Revolutionary War which occurred at Lexington and Concord, Massachusetts on April 19th, 1775. To mark this important date, the chapter held its annual Lexington & Concord Dinner in Mandeville and heard from Rear Admiral David Callahan, Commander of the 8th Coast Guard District in New Orleans. In his speech, he recounted the important role that Alexander Hamilton played in the Revolutionary War and as the founder of the U.S. Coast Guard in 1790. He also discussed how Hamilton's leadership guidance to his ship captains is still an important part of Coast Guard leadership and values even today. There were many guests present including LASSAR President Henry Grace, George Washington Chapter President Major Brad Hayes and leaders Daughters of the American Revolution in Covington and Mandeville.
PGR Chapter Hold Christmas Event
The Pierre George Rousseau Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution recently held its Christmas gathering in the home of President Rodney and Amanda McKelroy. For their service as Officers and Committee Chairmen to the Chapter during the past two years (2014-2016), the Bonze Sherman Rogers Medals were awarded to Leonard Rohrbough and Dr. Richard Dickey. During the same two year period the ladies of the Chapter supported all goals and activities of the Chapter. For their devotion and support the Daughters of Liberty Medals were awarded to Amanda McKelroy, Rebecca Rohrbough and Wilma Dickey. The new President for 2017 was announced as being Joel Whitehead. Best wishes to Joel and his lovely wife Martha.
Chapter Commemorates Battle of Lake Ponchartrain
The Pierre George Rousseau Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution recently held its 17th Annual Commemoration of the Battle of Lake Ponchartrain. The members were honored to have “Bo” Vets, President, Louisiana Society SAR, as their guest. Chapter President Rodney McKelroy conducted an induction ceremony for our newest member, Michael Prince, as witnessed by his lovely wife, Katey.
Memorial Day Actives (May 30, 2016)
Dr. Richard Dickey, Rodney McKelroy and Leonard Rohrbough, of Pierre Georges Rousseau Chapter, Louisiana Society Sons of American Revolution presented a wreath during second Memorial Day observances held at the Southeast Louisiana Veterans Cemetery near Slidell. Large crowds along with representatives from several patriotic organizations to include the DAR were present and participated in the ceremony. Representing the Virginia Continental Line, Compatriot Rohrbough fired his Brown Bess with the Honor Guard.
Pierre Georges Rousseau Chapter Sponsors State Winners (April 23, 2016)
The Louisiana Society Sons of the American Revolution held its 126th Annual meeting in Lake Charles. The society recognized Louisiana’s outstanding youth and educators by honoring them with scholarships and awards. Two honorees were nominated from the Pierre George Rousseau Chapter. The 2016 Eagle Scout Award was presented to Warren Davie of Troop 111 from St. Timothy Methodist Church, Mandeville La. Warren is credited with earning 124 of 139 possible Boy Scouts of America merit badges. His Eagle Scout accomplishments include 11 palms representing the remarkable time he has held the rank of Eagle Scout.
The 2016 JROTC Outstanding Cadet Silver Medallion and Scholarship Check were presented to Cadet Ruston Keller from St. Paul’s School AFJROTC Program. Both student’s applications included letters of recommendation for outstanding academic achievement and personal character from their principals and instructors as well as a 500 word essay regarding how their programs have made them better citizens of the United States of America. Presenting the awards and scholarships were the State Chairman of the Eagle Scout Program, Mr. Robert Hess and the President of the Louisiana Society, Mr. Jerry Haynes.
The 2016 JROTC Outstanding Cadet Silver Medallion and Scholarship Check were presented to Cadet Ruston Keller from St. Paul’s School AFJROTC Program. Both student’s applications included letters of recommendation for outstanding academic achievement and personal character from their principals and instructors as well as a 500 word essay regarding how their programs have made them better citizens of the United States of America. Presenting the awards and scholarships were the State Chairman of the Eagle Scout Program, Mr. Robert Hess and the President of the Louisiana Society, Mr. Jerry Haynes.
Lumberback Cadet Receives Chapter Award
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The Sons of American Revolution, Pierre George Rousseau Chapter honored JROTC Lumberjack Battalion Cadet Nicolas Meyers with the JROTC Bronze Medal for his outstanding academic and leadership achievements during the 2015-16 school year. Cadet Meyers’ potential for leadership was recognized with a promotion to Cadet Commander of the Lumberjack Battalion. Presenting the award is the Chapter President, Rodney McKelroy LTC (USAR Ret).
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Pierre George Rousseau Chapter Participates In Wreaths Across America (December 12, 2015)
The Pierre George Rousseau Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution recently participated in the National Wreaths Across America event held at the Southeast Louisiana Veterans Cemetery near Slidell. Chapter President Rodney McKelroy and Treasurer Dr. Richard Dickey laid wreaths to decorate the final resting places of U.S. service veterans. The event began in 1992 when Worchester Wreath from the state of Maine donated surplus wreaths to be place in Arlington National Cemetery. The traditional has spread across America. The purpose of the event is to “Remember. Honor. Teach”, a mission not very different from the NSSAR.
PGR Welcome New Members
The Pierre George Rousseau Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution recently held its 16th Annual Commemoration of the Battle of Lake Pontchartrain. The members were honored to have Genny May, U.S. Marshal Eastern District of Louisiana as the guest speaker. U.S. Marshals Service is the oldest law enforcement agency in the United States. Established shortly after the Revolutionary War in 1789, the Marshal Service protected the first Federal Judiciary and enforced the initial Federal Warrants. After 225 years, protecting the Federal Judiciary is still the primary mission of the U.S. Marshals.
In addition to learning about the Marshal Service, five new members were inducted into the chapter.
Pictured from left to right are John Crosby, Genny May (guest), Sean Morrison, Bret Morrison, Robert Morrison and not pictured Patrick McKelroy
In addition to learning about the Marshal Service, five new members were inducted into the chapter.
Pictured from left to right are John Crosby, Genny May (guest), Sean Morrison, Bret Morrison, Robert Morrison and not pictured Patrick McKelroy
Chapter Honors Achievment, Welcomes New Member
The Pierre George Rousseau Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution recently held its 14th Annual Lexington and Concord Dinner commemorating our nation's stance for freedom from Great Britain. They recognized some outstanding achievements and welcomed a new member.
PGR Compatriot Leonard Rohrbough and State President Robert Hess presented the WWII Service Medal to PGR Compatriot Louis Perez for his service as a command pilot during World War II. Compatriot Perez logged several hundred hours of sorties flying over "The Hump" in one of the most remote regions of the war. He transported tons of much needed supplies and equipment to the forces fighting the Japanese in Southeast Asia.
PGR Compatriots Tom Jacks and Shan Kirk presented the Eagle Scout Award to Warren Davie of Troop 111 from Mandeville. Warren earned 95% of the eligible Boy Scouts of America merit badges a scout can achieve. PGR Chapter President Compatriot Rodney McKelroy welcomed Henry Motty and his wife Stephanie into the chapter. Motty completed the necessary genealogical research proving his lineal ancestry to an American Revolutionary War patriot.
PGR Compatriot Leonard Rohrbough and State President Robert Hess presented the WWII Service Medal to PGR Compatriot Louis Perez for his service as a command pilot during World War II. Compatriot Perez logged several hundred hours of sorties flying over "The Hump" in one of the most remote regions of the war. He transported tons of much needed supplies and equipment to the forces fighting the Japanese in Southeast Asia.
PGR Compatriots Tom Jacks and Shan Kirk presented the Eagle Scout Award to Warren Davie of Troop 111 from Mandeville. Warren earned 95% of the eligible Boy Scouts of America merit badges a scout can achieve. PGR Chapter President Compatriot Rodney McKelroy welcomed Henry Motty and his wife Stephanie into the chapter. Motty completed the necessary genealogical research proving his lineal ancestry to an American Revolutionary War patriot.