A Patriot Remembered: SAR Honors Lt. George Kilgore

Honoring a Revolutionary War Hero’s Legacy in Herndon, Virginia.

On the hallowed grounds of the Chestnut Grove Cemetery in Herndon, Virginia, a remarkable gathering occurred. Several organizations convened to remember a Revolutionary War patriot whose dedication to liberty was, until now, quietly preserved by the annals of history: Lieutenant George Kilgore/Kilgour.

Members and dual members of the Col James Wood II Chapter standing l. to r. Dave Cook, Ernie Coggins, Bill Schwetke, Brett Osborn, Kelly Ford, Paul Christensen, Michael Wilson and Jim Cordes. Kneeling l. to r. Dale Corey, Sean Carrigan, Chip Daniel, and Ken Bonner. (Photo courtesy of Carl Loveland.)

Born in 1741, George Kilgore’s journey began in Cecil County, Maryland. By the time the winds of rebellion started gusting across the colonies, he had relocated to Fairfax County, Virginia, becoming a landowner and subsequently a vital supporter of the Revolutionary cause. From serving as Lieutenant in the Loudoun County Militia to providing essential supplies to the army, Kilgore’s contributions to America’s fight for independence were undeniable. Beyond the war, his legacy as a farmer and community member continued, with him donating land for a family cemetery where he and his beloved wife, Martina, were eventually laid to rest.

The solemnity of the day was palpable, with members from seven SAR Chapters, seven DAR Chapters, and the Children of the American Revolution (C.A.R.) Society attending. David Cook took the audience on a journey through Kilgore’s life, highlighting the patriot’s dedication to the revolutionary cause. Following this insightful presentation, a dedicated ceremony led by Cook and Juris Kelly unveiled the marker that would stand as a testament to Kilgore’s contributions.

The participants from the SAR standing l. to r. Ken Morris, Dave Cook, Bill SChwetke, Brett Osborn, Kelly Ford, Paul McComb, Paul Christensen, Michael Wilson, Jim Cordes, Mark Sink, Barry Schwoerer and Darrin Schmidt. Kneeling l. to r. Forrest Crain, Mark Crain, Ernie Coggins, Dale Corey, Sean Carrigan, Chip Daniel and Ken Bonner. (Photo courtesy of Carl Loveland.)

The Honor Guard Musket Squad at present arms l. to r. Barry Schwoerer, Paul McComb, Dale Corey, Bill Schwetke, Paul Christensen, Sean Carrigan, Kelly Ford, Ken Bonner, Michael Wilson, Mark Sink and Chip Daniel. (Photo courtesy of Carl Loveland.)

Commander Darrin Schmidt, leading the Virginia State Color Guard, and Commander Dale Corey, helming the Virginia State Honor Guard, presented a moving tribute. The day’s emotions were further heightened as representatives from various chapters presented wreaths, symbolizing the united respect and admiration for Lt. Kilgore.

With this ceremony, Lt. George Kilgore’s legacy receives the recognition it rightly deserves, reminding all of the individual stories that form the tapestry of America’s revolutionary history.