“Live Free or Die, for Death is not the Greatest of Evils”

On April 13, 2026, the New Hampshire Sons of the American Revolution (NHSAR) commemorated General John Stark Day with three ceremonies honoring one of the Granite State’s most distinguished patriots.

The day began at sunrise, 6:08 a.m., with the raising of the John Stark Flag at the John Stark Statue on the New Hampshire State House grounds in Concord. Members of Stark’s Company, NHSAR Color Guard—Doug Wood, Russ Whittaker, Dennis Walsh, and Commander Curtis Hermann—joined Kevin Jordon, Assistant Superintendent of the Capitol Grounds, to render honors as the flag was raised at first light. The early‑morning flag‑raising ceremony was captured in photographs by Compatriot Richard Baynes.

Later that afternoon, NHSAR hosted a formal commemoration ceremony at the John Stark Statue to honor one of New Hampshire’s greatest sons and one of the most respected leaders of the American Revolution. NHSAR compatriots Andy Akers, Al Lamson, Richard Wright, Barry Lewis, John Ginsberg, Greg Salts, Tim Billbrough, and Richard Baynes joined the Color Guard in conducting the ceremony.

Distinguished guest speakers included; New Hampshire House Speaker Sherman Packard ; New Hampshire State Archivist Ashley Miller; Elizabeth Dubrulle, Director of Education and Public Programs at the New Hampshire Historical Society; and Christina Lewis, Chapter Regent of the Butin‑Rumford‑Webster Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution.

Photo Credit: Richard Baynes

The day concluded with a grave marking ceremony at Old North Cemetery, honoring five Patriots who fought alongside then‑Major John Stark at the Battle of Bunker Hill. Although inclement weather required a shortened ceremony, Revolutionary War grave markers were reverently placed at the Patriots’ final resting places, ensuring their service and sacrifice remain remembered.

Photo Credits: Richard Baynes and Dr. Barry Lewis