Fox Valley Chapter SAR honors legacy and leadership at annual awards luncheon
The Fox Valley Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution gathered at the Batavia VFW for its 2025 Awards Luncheon and Officer Induction Ceremony.
The Oct. 26 event brought together members, family, and community partners for an afternoon of patriotism, fellowship, and recognition of outstanding service to community and country.
Throughout the luncheon, the chapter presented several prestigious awards to individuals who embody the values of honor, service, and leadership.
Mayor Clint Hull of St. Charles received the Law Enforcement Commendation Medal for his commitment to public safety and civic leadership.
Retired Fire Chief Trevor Herrmann of Hampshire was honored with the Fire Safety Commendation Medal for his decades of dedicated service and bravery.
Steve Hunter, Past Commander of the Batavia VFW Post, received the Good Citizenship Medal for his tireless work in supporting veterans and the community.
DeeAnn Carlson, Past Regent of the Elias Kent Kane DAR Chapter, was recognized with the Lydia Darragh Medal for her leadership in promoting historic preservation and education.
Marria Blinn, Illinois DAR State Regent, received the Martha Washington Medal for her exceptional partnership and leadership at the state level.
Scott DeMuth, Chapter Vice President, was awarded the Henry Knox Medal for his continued dedication to the SAR mission.
Don Parrish received the Chapter Distinguished Service Medal for his years of contribution and steadfast support.
The chapter also celebrated its partnership with the Daughters of the American Revolution in anticipation of the nation’s 250th anniversary. America250 streamer presentations were made to the following DAR chapters:
• General John Stark Chapter — Regent Donna Willrett
• Aurora Chapter — Regent Casey Leonhardt
• Elias Kent Kane Chapter — Regent Chris Harmon
• Perrin-Wheaton Chapter — Regent Ginny Christensen
In addition, SAR members received special America250 medals in recognition of their contributions to the commemoration efforts.
The luncheon also marked the installation of the chapter’s 2026 officers. The ceremony included the induction of: Marty Callahan as president; Scott DeMuth, vice president; Matt Clark, secretary; Eric Ingersoll, treasurer; Clyde Ruble and Ted Miller, registrars; Mike Campagnolo, sergeant-at-arms; Jon Fixmer, color guard commander; and Ron Feldman, chaplain.
The chapter also welcomed new members Dennis Boyd, Brian Clark, and Jerry Waite, each recognized for their patriot ancestry and dedication to the SAR mission.
The event concluded with a flag retirement ceremony at the Batavia Flag Day Monument, reminding all in attendance of the enduring meaning of the American flag and the principles it represents.
“Our chapter continues to grow in both numbers and purpose,” said Matt Clark, outgoing chapter president. “It’s inspiring to see how our members, partners, and community leaders work together to honor the sacrifices of our ancestors while strengthening the foundation of liberty they built.”
“I’m humbled to carry forward this legacy,” said Marty Callahan, newly installed chapter president. “As we approach America’s 250th anniversary, our mission is to ensure that patriotism and service remain living values — not just words in our history books.”
The event served as a fitting close to another year of community engagement and historical remembrance for the Fox Valley Chapter SAR — an organization that continues to honor the spirit of America’s founding and those who uphold its ideals today.
Learn more at sarfoxvalley.org or facebook.com/sonsoftheamericanrevolutionfoxvalley/.