The John Sevier Chapter of the Tennessee Society Sons of the American Revolution in coordination with the Conner-Roake Cemetery Association and Ronald Johnson conducted a traditional Son’s of the American Revolution grave marking ceremony Saturday to honor and remember the Revolutionary War service of Patriots William Jefferson Moore and Thomas Palmer. A patriotic memorial marker was unveiled for each patriot at their grave site in the Conner Cemetery at Birchwood, Tn.
The SAR marker dedication service was attended by numerous organizational representatives from the Tennessee Daughters of the American Revolution and Tennessee Society of the Sons of the American Revolution. The dignity of the occasion was highlighted by the TNSSAR’s Color Guard presentation of colors, musket volley salute and the playing of Taps by John Sevier Chapter member Evan Kent.
Direct descendants Robin Christmas from New Jersey and Gene Johnson of Tennessee made official remarks for the families of the patriots.
The grave site was marked with a distinctive granite marker which depicts the familiar Continental soldier with his musket, ready to defend the country. The marker consists of four arms and eight points, each point being decorated by a representative gold head. The source of the cross is the ancient chivalric Order of St. Louis. The cross is connected with a circular laurel wreath, a Napoleonic symbol recognizing faithful service and merit. The year 1775 is inscribed at the base – the year the “shot heard round the world” was fired at Lexington Green, Ma. An American “Betsy Ross” flag was appropriately placed at the marker.
John Sevier Registrar Charles Dammann, the master of ceremony, presented the military service biography for both patriot Benjamin Jones and patriot Thomas Palmer – true American heroes.
For additional information visit the John Sevier Chapter’s website page that honors patriots or contact the Chapter’s 2nd Vice President Cliff Kent at dogwoodlodge@epbfi.com.