Gov. Greg Abbott joined the Texas Society Sons of the American Revolution (TSSAR) to unveil a new monument honoring Texas revolutionary war patriots at the Texas State Cemetery in Austin April 18.
Speaking to the gathered audience of over 150, Abbott proudly noted that his strong American heritage dates to 1755. Members of the Freedom Chapter, Sons of the American Revolution from Montgomery County were also in attendance.
“We must educate every generation about why it is that America grew from a tenuous 13 colonies into the most powerful country in the history of the world,” said Governor Abbott. “This monument here is an enduring testament to the heroes who fought for the freedom that is unique to America. Stories of these heroes must be told. Generations of Americans must be reminded of who they are and what they fought for.”
He highlighted that his ancestors had a history in defending the ideals that created America 250 years ago. Because of documentation linking him to a direct patriot descendent who supported the cause of American Independence, Governor Abbott was inducted into the National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution by Texas State President Mel Oller. The Governor was presented with the SAR Silver Good Citizenship Medal in recognition of his outstanding and public service to the people of Texas.
“This year marks the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution, which not only gave freedom to the British colonies of North America, but inspired movements for freedom and liberty all over the world,” said TSSAR President Mel Oller. “Texans played a role in the war too, and it’s important to recognize them, and the sacrifices they made for our freedom.”
As the United States approaches the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the monument honors 69 patriots of the American Revolutionary War who later settled in Texas, including native Tejanos who supported the cause of independence.
At the monument unveiling, Governor Abbott and TSSAR honored, among others:
• José Santiago Seguín, grandfather of Texas Revolutionary hero Juan Seguín.
• Peter Sides, who fought in the 2nd Battalion of the North Carolina Regiment of the Colonial Army and was later killed in the 1813 Battle of Medina, fighting for Mexican independence against Spain.
• Owen Shannon and Zachariah Landrum who lived and died in Montgomery County. Many of their descendants still reside in the local area.
A very special thanks to Richard Zdunkewicz, Monument Committee Chairman, for his tireless efforts and unyielding leadership.