Dumfries Father and Son Stand Vigil at the Tomb of George Washington

'Within this Enclosure Rest the remains of Genl. George Washington." This is the brief legend inscribed on a stone tablet over the entrance to the tomb vault at Mount Vernon. Behind the iron gate are two marble sarcophagi, one inscribed "Washington," the other "Martha, Consort of Washington."

On September 19th Dumfries residents Andrew Mills and Jack Mills participated with the National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) Color Guard in a day-long vigil at the Tomb of George and Martha Washington. SAR members from as far away as Texas and Kentucky participated in the periodic event.

After posting the U.S. and Washington Commander-in- Chief’s flag, the SAR “compatriots” were divided into groups of two to stand fifteen-minute tours throughout the day. The Vigil was under the command of National Color Guard Commander C. Louis Raborg Jr.

Andrew Mills is a local historian and author. Jack Mills is a student at Holy Family Catholic School in Dale City. Both are members of the Colonel William Grayson Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution, which serves Prince William County and western Fairfax County. The Chapter periodically stages events to honor Col. William Grayson and other patriot ancestors. Membership in the Sons of the American Revolution is open to the lineal descendant of a Revolutionary War soldier, sailor or Patriot. This includes persons who not only fought in the military or militia, but who also may have provided supplies, medical aid, signed oaths of Faith and Fidelity and similar acts. Contact the chapter’s registrar Michael Blythe mblythe@comcast.net for help in applying for membership.