A wonderful public celebration was held by our chapter at Creasy Bicentennial Park in Grand Blanc on the 19th day of April 2025. The purpose of the event was to dedicate a tree which we had previously planted and which we are now designating with a permanent marker as a “Liberty Tree”. We do this to recognize the 250th Anniversary of our American Independence and as a tribute to all American veterans. The original Liberty Tree stood in Boston at the time of the Revolutionary War. It was a gathering spot for patriots and a symbol of resistance to British rule.

It was an impressive and well-planned celebration which flowed smoothly. The weather was cooler than expected but not uncomfortable. We were relieved that it didn’t rain.

The ceremonies included the following speakers: Compatriots Bob Hawcroft, Norm Palmer and Jim Riddell, SAR VPG Robert Hagland, MISSAR VP Bob Craig, Chaplin Dr. Eddie Howell, MI Representative David Martin, and Senator Gary Peters’ Regional Director Quentin D. Groce. Also taking part in the ceremony were the MISSAR Color Guard with Commander Lepisto & Crew, and Larry Blackett with the 1st Royal Artillery of the Seven Years War Association.