The “Battle Scars” of Service: My First SAR Medal

The 2025 Colonel James Wood II Chapter Christmas Dinner was an evening I won’t soon forget. I hadn’t originally planned to be there, but when two seats opened up at the last minute, I jumped at the chance to attend. It turned out to be one of the most rewarding decisions of my year.

“Battle Scars” and Minuteman Spirit

I arrived at the dinner dressed as a Minuteman. While most attendees opted for suits, and the officers were in their formal regalia, I felt it was only right to represent the common soldier—the recruiter, the farmer, the man ready at a minute’s notice.

I also happened to be sporting a fresh scratch on my forehead, courtesy of my dog a couple of days prior. When people asked about it, I simply told them it was a “battle scar” from the field. It certainly fit the Minuteman aesthetic!

A Table of Mentors

The highlight of the dinner was the company. I had the privilege of sitting at a table with:

• The Chapter President, which offered a great chance to talk about the chapter’s future.
• My Masonic Brother, the very man who first guided me to join the SAR.
• A New Member, who was inducted that very evening.

Watching a new compatriot take his oath—just as I had done a year prior—while sitting next to the man who brought me into the fold felt like a perfect circle of mentorship.

An Unexpected Honor

During the evening’s awards, I was caught completely off guard when I was called up to receive a certificate for the Bronze 250th Anniversary of the American Revolution.

This recognition is earned through a points system by participating in “250th Minute” historical talks and attending various anniversary events. While the physical medals haven’t arrived yet—the compatriots who usually order them have been navigating significant health challenges and busy schedules—the certificate represents the work I’ve put in to help our chapter prepare for the nation’s upcoming 250th birthday.

Reflection

As I looked around the room, I thought about how much has changed since I first started researching John Plumley. I went from a curious descendant to a medal-holding compatriot in the Color Guard.

This medal isn’t just a piece of bronze; it’s a reminder that we are the guardians of a 250-year-old legacy. As we move closer to 2026, I am more ready than ever to serve the “adventure” that began centuries ago.