DAR of Michigan, Michigan Society Sons of the American Revolution (MISSAR), Michigan Society of Children of the American Revolution (MSCAR) and the Michigan Sons of the Revolution held a wreath laying event honoring George Washington and America’s 250th Anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence on Thursday, April 30, 2026 in Lansing as scheduled, see attached photos below.
Yet organizers decided to cancel the planned 21-gun salute. This decision was made out of respect for the local Lansing community following recent school shootings in the area, and in particular with concern for children, families, students, educators, and others who may be attending the event.
“While a 21-gun salute is a traditional military honor intended to show respect and remembrance of American Veterans, we recognize that the sound of gunfire may be upsetting or inappropriate under the current circumstances,” said Bob Craig, President, MISSAR. “Our purpose is to honor George Washington in a manner that brings people together, and we want this event to remain respectful, welcoming, and sensitive to the experiences of our community.”
The commemoration included the MISSAR Color Guard’s display of flags, Echo Taps, patriotic music played by the Meridian Community Band and remarks from Michigan representatives. As a memento of the Wreath-laying Ceremony, 250 Liberty Tree Seedings were distributed free to attendees. George Washington’s legacy of service, leadership, and devotion to the founding principles of the United States remained the focus of the event.
An excellent crowd of 110 people attended this free event on Thursday April 30, 2026, at 1:30 pm and joined in a thoughtful observance appropriate to the moment. There was also a public reception in the Speaker’s Library at the State Capitol Building with free docent tours of the State Capitol building available for anyone interested in touring the State Capitol.
Finally, the DAR of Michigan Spotlights on Patriots and MISSAR annual conference Elementary Youth Art contest winners’ work was displayed on the ground floor of the State Capitol! See attachment of Middle School Brochure below by Ms. Payton Goodson, Shawmut Hills Academy, Grand Rapids Public Schools.
Photo courtesy Glenn Dunn
