Green Dot Stories – Hear from First-Time Attendees
Every Green Dot has a first Leadership story. Some came to Louisville to understand SAR at the national level. Others came looking for fresh ideas, encouragement, or a clearer sense of where they fit. What they found was a welcoming experience, new perspective, and a deeper connection to the Society and the patriot ancestors we honor.
If you want to know what your own first Leadership might feel like, start with the stories of compatriots who have already taken that first step.
Bob Craig from the Michigan Society offers the kind of encouragement many first-time attendees need most. For Bob, SAR is both personal and about our country. He sees Leadership as an impressive and fascinating experience that promotes our history, strengthens patriotism, and helps compatriots learn and share with others.
His message to anyone hesitating is simple: “If you’re on the fence a little bit, jump over it. Do it.”
Best takeaway: Sometimes the most important step is simply deciding to go.
More Green Dot Stories
These stories show that Green Dots come to Leadership for different reasons, but often leave with the same result: they feel encouraged, better informed, and more connected to SAR.
Bob Craig – Michigan Society
Bob’s story carries a strong sense of patriotism and urgency. He describes SAR as deeply personal, but also as something larger than himself—a way to promote American history and educate others. He sees Leadership as a chance to learn, share, and become part of something meaningful, especially in this season leading into America’s 250th.
Best takeaway: If you are hesitant, Leadership may be exactly the experience that gives you renewed energy, perspective, and purpose.
Dan Ammerman – Wisconsin Society
Dan came to Leadership to learn more about national-level SAR activities. At first, he was unsure what some of the committee meetings would be like or how organized they would be. Instead, he was pleasantly surprised. He found the sessions worthwhile and appreciated the opportunity to exchange ideas with members from other states—something he believes helps make every state society stronger.
Best takeaway: One of the biggest surprises for Green Dots is how practical, organized, and useful Leadership can be.
Matthew Toenskoetter – Missouri Society
Matthew’s story is rooted in ancestry and discovery. He has identified more than 20 ancestors who fought or served in the Revolution, and he connects that journey to the larger meaning of patriotism and being an American. At Leadership, he attended meetings and sessions that helped him learn things he did not know before and better understand what is ahead in SAR.
Best takeaway: Leadership can deepen not only your understanding of SAR, but also your connection to your own patriot ancestors and their sacrifices.
John Lynch – Virginia Society
John talks about how Leadership gave him a clearer picture of national SAR, new friendships, and practical ideas he could bring back home. His experience shows that you do not have to know everything before you go—you can arrive curious and leave confident.
Best takeaway: You do not need to be an expert on national SAR to benefit from Leadership—showing up with an open mind is enough.
Jeff Truax – Louisiana Society
Jeff emphasizes networking, fresh ideas, and the camaraderie that comes from spending time with compatriots from across the country. He found that the informal conversations between sessions were just as valuable as the meetings themselves.
Best takeaway: Leadership is where you discover you are not alone—other compatriots are facing the same challenges and are eager to share what works.
Paul Bobenhausen – Tennessee Society
Paul’s experience highlights how Leadership can reset your perspective. He came looking for ideas and left with a stronger sense of where he fits and how he can contribute at both the chapter and state levels.
Best takeaway: Leadership can help you see your own SAR journey in a new light and identify your next step.
Richard Bassette – Tennessee Society
Richard focuses on how welcoming the Leadership environment was as a first-time attendee. He found that questions were encouraged, ideas were shared freely, and he left with both new friends and new confidence.
Best takeaway: Even if you arrive not knowing anyone, you will not stay a stranger for long.
More Voices from Green Dots
Want to hear from compatriots who talk about networking, fresh ideas, camaraderie, and finding your place? Return to the Green Dot Guide to hear featured stories from John Lynch and Jeff Truex.
What These Stories Have in Common
First-time attendees often arrive with questions, but leave encouraged and better informed.
Green Dots discover that Leadership is more welcoming, organized, and worthwhile than they expected.
Many stories connect Leadership to patriotism, ancestry, and the larger mission of SAR.
Ready for Your Own Green Dot Story?
Your first Leadership does not have to begin with uncertainty. It can begin with encouragement from compatriots who have already been there—and one simple next step.