Invitation from the Virginia Society

The George Washington Chapter of the Virginia Society has cordially invited all members of the Massachusetts Society and their families to participate in the 52nd annual parade, ceremony, and wreath laying at George Washington’s Mount Vernon on July 4th. Compatriots who take part will be awarded the Baldwin-Jones-Tabb Medal (BJT), a chapter-level medal that has been presented since 2004. The medal features a rendering of George and Martha Washington’s tomb and is named after three presidents of the George Washington Chapter who also served as president of the Virginia Society.

Members and guests should assemble by 9:30 am at the administration building where Chapter President Michael J. Elston plans to induct at least two new members and present the BJT medals to first-time attendees. At 10am, the march will march down the bowling green and then on to Tomb Grove for a ceremony that will feature the winner of the state’s orations contest. Finally, there will be a wreath at General Washington’s tomb, and members, their families, and the public will have the opportunity to place carnations in at the gate of the tomb.

Our members have consistently described what a moving experience it is to be within feet of the final resting place of George Washington on Independence Day.

For more details (including directions on how to enter the grounds) or any questions you may have, please do not hesitate to e-mail Michael Elston. Admission to Mount Vernon is free to those participating in the ceremony.