Yorktown Day - 2008
Yorktown Day is the observance of the last battle of the Revolutionary War, or at least the surrender of the British forces for those that don't agree that it was the last battle. The festivities are typcially held on October 19th, and include a parade, reenactments, speakers from various historical organizations, and grave markings.
The 2008 annual celebration of Yorktown Day was much drier this year! Fairfax Resolves was well represented with five members attending, including Chapter President Tom Speelman who placed a wreath during the ceremony at the gravesite of Gov. Nelson at Yorktown. This year there were hundreds of spectators attending to cheer on the parade participants which included the Old Guard, the Ft. Myer Fife and Drum Corps.
Chapter President Tom Speelman places a wreath at the grave of Governor Thomas Nelson, Jr.
Members of the C.A.R. present the Virginia Society wreath at Thomas Nelson's grave.
(L to R) Larry McKinley, Dan Rolph, Tom Speelman, Darrin Schmidt, and John Sinks with the Fairfax Resolves wreath at the grave of Gov. Thomas Nelson, Jr.
Col. Andrew Johnson, VASSAR Color Guard Commander, carries the US flag with Larry McKinley, Darrin Schmidt, and Dan Rolph in the Yorktown Day Parade.
Darrin Schmidt (left) and Dan Rolph marching in Continental Line uniforms.
Other events at Yorktown Day include an open house and reception at the Yorktown Custom House hosted by the Compte de Grasse Chapter DAR.
John Sinks and Suzanne Reynolds at the reception hosted by the Compte de Grasse Chapter DAR.