Chapter Christmas Party (December 2019)
Celebrating George Washington’s Birthday in New Orleans (February 22, 2019)
Members of the George Washington Chapter celebrated our First President’s birthday at the Southern Yacht Club in New Orleans. 104 members and guests were on hand to remember the Father of our Country. Photos courtesy of Col. Frank Arnemann (Ret)
Chapter Christmas Party (December 2018)
This year's annual meeting was held at Vacherie Restaurant in the French Quarter and featured Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser as the Special Guest speaker. Over 40 members and guests were in attendance.
Chapter Honors Member Dick Hallenus (2017)
Members of the George Washington Chapter of New Orleans participated in a special ceremony honoring one of their own recently. At 96 years young, Richard "Dick" Hallenus is still an active member of the George Washington Chapter. Chapter members traveled to the Assisted Living Facility where Compatriot Hallenus lives with his wife of 75-years, Dottie. There they presented him with the Distinguished Service Medal for his services to the Chapter and his fellow veterans. Dick is a WWII veteran who joined the chapter in 1959. In preparing to award him his Distinguished Service Medal, it came to light that he'd never been awarded a War Service Medal. It was, therefore, a signal honor for Chapter President Bradley Hayes, himself a veteran of Iraq and Afghanistan, to present Compatriot Hallenus with the War Service Medal for his service in WWII (60+ years after the fact). Along with the Distinguished Service Medal and the War Service Medal, the Chapter also presented him with his 55-year Service Pin. We look forward to presenting him his 60-year service pin for his 100th birthday present. Those present from the Chapter were President Bradley Hayes, First Vice-President Jim Schneider, Color Sergeant Scott Centorino, and Compatriots Tony Riddle and Dick Hallenus. Also in attendance were Compatriot Hayes's wife and children, and Compatriot Hallenus's wife.
State Police Chief Receives Award (February 22, 2016)
George Washington Chapter President Norm Umholtz (appearing as his alter ego John Paul Jones) presented State Police Superintendent Col. Mike Edmonson with the SAR Law Enforcement Commendation Medal at a special ceremony in the Lt. Governor's quarters at the Pentagon Barracks in Baton Rouge.
DAR Member Recognized For Service To SAR (August 3, 2015)
On Aug. 3 at a meeting of Daughter's of the American Revolution New Orleans Chapter The Son's of the American Revolution President Norm Umholtz presented Kay Alpaugh a medal and certificate for her to exceptional service to the National Society and the George Washington Chapter SAR.
Young Marine Receives Award (July 9, 2015)
On July 9th at the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office Young Marine Graduation, Young Marine Sergeant Major Kariel Mayer received the Sons of the American Revolution “Outstanding Citizenship Award”. Dennis Rollins representing the George Washington Chapter, Sons of the American Revolution and Lisa Rollins representing the Vieux Carré Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution presented the award to her.
New Members Installed At May Meeting
Chapter president Norm Umholtz (center) installed Cedric Walker (left) and Gerald Schroeder (second from right) as members of the George Washington Chapter, New Orleans. Sons of the American Revolution, Louisiana Society. Assisting with the National Rosette pinning is Judge John Grout Chapter Chancellor (second from left) and Bradley Hayes Chapter Secretary (on the left).
St. Charles Parish Receives Recognition
The George Washington Chapter of The Sons of the American Revolution New Orleans Chapter presents a proclamation to Sheriff Greg Champagne and the St. Charles sheriff's department. The proclamation expresses sincere appreciation for their daily sacrifices on behalf of the public, and that they constantly go above and beyond the call of duty to protect the community.
Norm Umholtz chapter president presented the proclamation on behalf of the chapter's 67 members. The chapter expressed sincere gratitude, and thanks to every member of the department.
Norm Umholtz chapter president presented the proclamation on behalf of the chapter's 67 members. The chapter expressed sincere gratitude, and thanks to every member of the department.
Chapter Helps Install Flag Pole
The George Washington Chapter coordinated the installation of a flag pole and presentation of a flag for the veterans residing Woldenberg Village Retirement Center.
The Navy Chief Petty Officers at the Joint Reserve base Belle Chasse, La. Volunteered to assist in the project. In the photo is Norm Umholtz Chapter president and Chief Rachael Broddy president of the Chief's association. Chief Rob Harris and compatriot Richard Hallenus coordinated the event.
The Navy Chief Petty Officers at the Joint Reserve base Belle Chasse, La. Volunteered to assist in the project. In the photo is Norm Umholtz Chapter president and Chief Rachael Broddy president of the Chief's association. Chief Rob Harris and compatriot Richard Hallenus coordinated the event.
Versabar Honored For Patriotism (February 24, 2015)
On February 24th Norman Umholtz, President of the George Washington Chapter, Sons of the American Revolution and Compatriot Dennis Rollins presented a Patriotic Flag Certificate to Versabar President Jon Khachaturian for the American flag which is so prominently displayed in front of the company's Belle Chasse facility.
George Taix Honored (February 24, 2015)
On February 24th the George Washington Chapter, Sons of the American Revolution presented a plaque to Mr. George Taix. 92 year old Mr. Taix is a WW II US Navy Veteran who lives in Gretna, Louisiana. The plaque was given to Mr. Taix in appreciation for his service to our country. The certificate was presented to him by Norman Umholtz, President of the George Washington Chapter and Compatriot Dennis Rollins. Mr. Taix's family attending the presentation were George's sister Lorraine McCaslin, his daughters Cookie Wilkerson and Peggy Bourgeois, his son in law Phil Wilkerson Sr., his nephew Bobby McCaslin and grandson Phil Wilkerson Jr. Also attending the presentation was Jon Khachaturian president of Versabar, Inc.
Past President Receives Award
George Washington chapter president visited Dr. Habeeb at his home in old Metaire to present the doctor with the meritorious medal for his service in World War II, and after the war for providing medical expertise to the citizens of New Orleans. Also for his many years of dedicated service to the Sons of the American Revolution as president of George Washington Chapter New Orleans Louisiana Society.
The picture in the background is a portrait of George Washington by Charles Peale. Dr. Habeeb donated the portrait to the George Washington Chapter.
In the picture on the left is Norm Umholtz George Washington Chapter President on the right Dr. Albert Habeeb.
The picture in the background is a portrait of George Washington by Charles Peale. Dr. Habeeb donated the portrait to the George Washington Chapter.
In the picture on the left is Norm Umholtz George Washington Chapter President on the right Dr. Albert Habeeb.
Billy Nunngesser Receives Award (November 15, 2014)
Billy Nunngesser received the SAR Silver Good Citizenship Medal Nov 15, 2014 at the George Washington Chapter's
annual meeting. The award was presented for Mr. Nungesser's concern for the welfare of the citizens of Louisiana
and his proactive approach to protect Plaquemines Parish in the aftermath of hurricanes Katrina, Gustaf, and Ike.
Other business conducted at the annual meeting included the election of chapter officers for 2015, the chapter by-laws, and approval of the financial report. All were unanimously approved.
Norm Umholtz newly elected president of George Washington Chapter presented the award with assistance from Mr.John Grout newly elected Chancellor.
The chapter pledged to continue to increase membership and thanked Past President Rennie Culver for hosting the event at his home.
From left to right: Judge John Grout, Norman Umholtz, Billy Nunngesser
annual meeting. The award was presented for Mr. Nungesser's concern for the welfare of the citizens of Louisiana
and his proactive approach to protect Plaquemines Parish in the aftermath of hurricanes Katrina, Gustaf, and Ike.
Other business conducted at the annual meeting included the election of chapter officers for 2015, the chapter by-laws, and approval of the financial report. All were unanimously approved.
Norm Umholtz newly elected president of George Washington Chapter presented the award with assistance from Mr.John Grout newly elected Chancellor.
The chapter pledged to continue to increase membership and thanked Past President Rennie Culver for hosting the event at his home.
From left to right: Judge John Grout, Norman Umholtz, Billy Nunngesser
Portrait of George Washington Donated (September 27, 2014)
At a ceremony in the Town of Washington, La. (the third oldest settlement in the state and on the banks of Bayou Courtableau), the George Washington and the Louisiana Society of the Sons of the American Revolution presented to Mr.Raynold Soileau (museum curator) and to the town of Washington a portrait of the town's namesake President George Washington from Mr. Norm Umholtz, New Orleans Chapter President, of Harvey, La. and Mr. Bob Hess, Louisiana Society President, of Lafayette La. Also assisting Mrs. Hess and Mrs. Umholtz not pictured.
The portrait was donated to the town by Compatriot Bill Allerton coordinated by Compatriot Trevor Rowe.
From left to right: Mr. Soileau, Mr. Hess, and Mr. Umholtz
The portrait was donated to the town by Compatriot Bill Allerton coordinated by Compatriot Trevor Rowe.
From left to right: Mr. Soileau, Mr. Hess, and Mr. Umholtz
Two Members Join George Washington Chapter (September 10, 2014)
George Washington Chapter President Norm Umhotz inducted two new compatriots to the Louisiana Society Sons of The American Revolution. The swearing in took place at Two Tony's Restaurant Wednesday September 10th. Adam Jacob is a descendant of Patriot Louis Charles DeBlanc and Keven Watkins is a descendant of Patriot Joseph Watkins. Pinning of the rosettes was done by Judge John Grout.
Pictured from left to right: Judge John Grout, Adam Jacob, Kevin Watkins, and Norman Umholtz.
Pictured from left to right: Judge John Grout, Adam Jacob, Kevin Watkins, and Norman Umholtz.
New Member Sworn In (June 11, 2014)
Nick Funk was sworn in as the newest member of the George Washington Chapter by LASSAR State President Bob Hess. Chapter President Norm Umholtz presented Nick with his membership certificate. Nick's ancestor, Henry Funk, served as a Private in capt Joseph Bowman's Company.
In addition to swearing in Nick, Bob delivered greetings and told the chapter of the state of the Louisiana Society.
LASSAR Veterans Committee Chairman Tony L. Vets encouraged members to submit their activities to Norm or to him for the chapter and states submission to the Stark Award.
In addition to swearing in Nick, Bob delivered greetings and told the chapter of the state of the Louisiana Society.
LASSAR Veterans Committee Chairman Tony L. Vets encouraged members to submit their activities to Norm or to him for the chapter and states submission to the Stark Award.
President Visits Retirement Home; Surprises Veterans With Recognition (May 21, 2014)
The George Washington Chapter of LASSAR coordinated a veteran's program in recognition of upcoming memorial day.
Recognizing seventeen veterans for their service, Chapter President Norm Umholtz was guest speaker at Woldenburg Village Retirement Home.
Norm talked about John Paul Jones, his navy career, and paid tribute to current veterans and the veterans who have given the ultimate sacrifice. Richard Hallenus was presented a letter of appreciation for service to SAR.
17 plaques were presented, one to each veteran.
In the picture standing left to right are President Norm Umholtz, Richard Hallenus and veterans and nurses from WW-11 and the Korean war. The inscription on the plaques reads HOME OF THE FREE BECAUSE OF THE BRAVE. After the meeting a reception was held and President Norm visited and took many pictures with the veterans and nurses.
Recognizing seventeen veterans for their service, Chapter President Norm Umholtz was guest speaker at Woldenburg Village Retirement Home.
Norm talked about John Paul Jones, his navy career, and paid tribute to current veterans and the veterans who have given the ultimate sacrifice. Richard Hallenus was presented a letter of appreciation for service to SAR.
17 plaques were presented, one to each veteran.
In the picture standing left to right are President Norm Umholtz, Richard Hallenus and veterans and nurses from WW-11 and the Korean war. The inscription on the plaques reads HOME OF THE FREE BECAUSE OF THE BRAVE. After the meeting a reception was held and President Norm visited and took many pictures with the veterans and nurses.
JROTC Medal Awarded (May 3, 2014)
President Norm Umholtz of the George Washington Chapter in New Orleans attended the Destrahan High Schools JROTC award banquet.
Umholtz presented the SAR Bronze ROTC Medal to Cadet Justin Tizzard of the 932nd Air Force JROTC.
The ceremony was held at a dining out in the Airport Hilton's Grand Ballroom.
Umholtz presented the SAR Bronze ROTC Medal to Cadet Justin Tizzard of the 932nd Air Force JROTC.
The ceremony was held at a dining out in the Airport Hilton's Grand Ballroom.
Chapter President Delivers Comfort Items to VA Home (April 11, 2014)
President Norm Umholtz and his wife Mary delivered 32 bibs to the veterans at the Northwest Louisiana Veterans home in Bossier City, LA.
Norm and Mary were on their way from New Orleans to Monroe for the annual LASSAR meeting and scheduled this viit as part of their travel plans.
In the picture stand are Norm and Mary Umholtz, and seated left to right are Charles Bryant, WW II veteran who served in the Army Navy and Marine Corps, Atwood Lotto, an Army veteran of the Korean War, and Clifton Wells, also an Army veteran of the Korean War.
Plans are in the works to deliver bibs to the Veterans home in Jennings, LA.
Norm and Mary were on their way from New Orleans to Monroe for the annual LASSAR meeting and scheduled this viit as part of their travel plans.
In the picture stand are Norm and Mary Umholtz, and seated left to right are Charles Bryant, WW II veteran who served in the Army Navy and Marine Corps, Atwood Lotto, an Army veteran of the Korean War, and Clifton Wells, also an Army veteran of the Korean War.
Plans are in the works to deliver bibs to the Veterans home in Jennings, LA.
Chapter Members Attend George Washington Birthday Event (February 22, 2014)
Three members of the George Washington Chapter traveled to Baton Rouge to participate in the annual wreath laying at the bust of George Washington on the grounds of the state capital.
This served as a perfect occasion to induct two new members into the chapter, Ryun Mouton and Trevor Rowe. Ryun is a descendant of Marin Mouton and Trevor is a descendant of Daniel Morse.
Pictured are Ryun Mouton, President Norm Umholtz, and Trevor Rowe.
This served as a perfect occasion to induct two new members into the chapter, Ryun Mouton and Trevor Rowe. Ryun is a descendant of Marin Mouton and Trevor is a descendant of Daniel Morse.
Pictured are Ryun Mouton, President Norm Umholtz, and Trevor Rowe.
Area Veterans Receive Valentines Cards (February 14, 2014)
The George Washington Chapter of the Louisiana Society, Sons of the American Revolution and the 1st. Grades of Belle Chasse Academy at the Naval Air Station, Belle Chasse, LA participated together in a Valentines for Veterans program. The students made one hundred valentines cards by hand with a special thank you note.
The students added a special Louisiana flair to each card by gluing a heart outlined in red beans with glued rice in the middle on the front of each card. Each card was received with a smile.
The George Washington Chapter of LASSAR from New Orleans delivered the cards to veterans at the World War II Museum in New Orleans, Wynhoven Healthcare Center in Marrero, LA, Bayside Healthcare Center in Gretna, LA, and Woldenburg Village Nursing Home.
A special presentation was made to Compatriot Richard Hallenus (shown at left) who, with his wife Dottie, resides at Woldenburg Village in Algiers, LA. Mr.Hallenus then presented six veterans at the home with Valentine cards.
The students added a special Louisiana flair to each card by gluing a heart outlined in red beans with glued rice in the middle on the front of each card. Each card was received with a smile.
The George Washington Chapter of LASSAR from New Orleans delivered the cards to veterans at the World War II Museum in New Orleans, Wynhoven Healthcare Center in Marrero, LA, Bayside Healthcare Center in Gretna, LA, and Woldenburg Village Nursing Home.
A special presentation was made to Compatriot Richard Hallenus (shown at left) who, with his wife Dottie, resides at Woldenburg Village in Algiers, LA. Mr.Hallenus then presented six veterans at the home with Valentine cards.
Umholtz Delivers Memorial Day Message (May 24, 2013)
Norman Umholtz was a featured speaker at Memorial Weekend ceremonies at Medal of Honor Park in Belle Chasse. Parish President Billy Nungesser and NAS Belle Chasse Commanding Officer Capt Jack Hill, and members of several veteran’s organizations, were joined by over 100 spectators for the occasion. Umholtz thanked all active duty and every veteran for their service to our country, reminding each that they embody the spirit of 1776 and hoping that the spirit of patriotism live within them as they protect our way of life and the freedoms we cherish.
A retired Chief Petty Officer, Umholtz gave special thanks to the Chief Petty Officers of Belle Chasse and around the world. Umholtz turned his remarks to the reason that they were assembled there, to remember and honor the men and women who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces.
Umholtz reminded all that everyday should be Memorial Day and Veterans Day in the hearts of Americans, and that in addition to remembering our fallen, we should remember those listed as POW and MIA. He closed with the following…”Our Flag does not fly because of the wind that blows it – The flag flies because each veteran’s last breath blows it”.
A retired Chief Petty Officer, Umholtz gave special thanks to the Chief Petty Officers of Belle Chasse and around the world. Umholtz turned his remarks to the reason that they were assembled there, to remember and honor the men and women who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces.
Umholtz reminded all that everyday should be Memorial Day and Veterans Day in the hearts of Americans, and that in addition to remembering our fallen, we should remember those listed as POW and MIA. He closed with the following…”Our Flag does not fly because of the wind that blows it – The flag flies because each veteran’s last breath blows it”.
New Member Sworn In At LASSAR Board Meeting (January 19, 2013)
In addition to hearing reports of the chapters and committees, the LASSAR Board of Directors was honored to be present for the swearing in of a new member for the George Washington Chapter (host chapter for this meeting). Norman Umholtz, USN (Retired), joined under his patriot Henry Umholtz, who served as a Private in the Lancaster County militia.
Pictured L-R: Norman Umholtz, GW Chapter Secretary Drew Morock, GW Chapter President Rennie Culver, and State President Tony L. Vets
Pictured L-R: Norman Umholtz, GW Chapter Secretary Drew Morock, GW Chapter President Rennie Culver, and State President Tony L. Vets
History
Since the beginning of the Louisiana Society, nearly all members were “at-large” members living in the New Orleans area. By the early 1970s, the need for a chapter in the New Orleans area was recognized and in 1985 Former State President Bruce Bair Butler invited prominent at-large members to his home to discuss the forming of a chapter. On November 11, 1985, sixteen at-large members signed the Application for Charter. Later that month, Butler was elected Organizing President and the chapters’ first meeting was held at the Pendennis Club on December 12, 1985.