New Mexico Society Color Guard Presents the Colors as Governor Martinez opens the Centennial Celebration for New Mexico in the Rotunda of the State Capitol

On January 6, 2012 our Color Guard presented the Colors for the opening ceremonies of the State of New Mexico’s 100th Birthday Celebration at the State Capitol in Santa Fe.

Governor Martinez cuts the cake honoring the State and its citizens and initiating the year long Centennial Celebration. Color Guard members Jimmie Fennell, George Garcia and Lionel Rael present the Colors and provide a fitting background for the celebration.

New Mexico Society Color Guard Supports Presentation of a Plaque to Honor Spanish Presidio Soldiers in Santa Fe 1779 – 1783

(Left to Right) George Biles, Jim Thornton, Lionel Rael, George Garcia, Ambassador Jorge Dezcallar and his wife, Vernon Casias, Jimmie Fennell, Charles Martinez y Vigil and Jim Hesse

On Sunday, November 13th the Color Guard was present at the Plaque Presentation at the State of New Mexico History Museum in Santa Fe honoring the Presidio Soldiers of Santa Fe that supported our Revolution with their contribution to King Carlo III’s war chest.

As a result of their support, the Spanish contributed firearms, cannon, uniforms, medical supplies, foodstuffs, tents, cots and bedding for Washington’s Continental Army. The documentation of their contribution allows prospective SAR and DAR members who descend from them to join our Societies.

The project, proposed and supported by NM Society President Teddy Adams resulted in research by the Museum staff. The New Mexico Society supported in the search of records assisted by genealogist Henrietta Christmas. A poster listing all the names was produced by graphic artist Natalie Baca listing the names so descendents could trace their ancestor(s) who served at the Presidio. Museum Director Francis Levine co-ordinate the presentation and reception at the Museum that included Spain’s Ambassador to the United States, Jorge Dezcallar and former Palace of the Governors Director, historian and author, Dr Tom Chavez, both of whom spoke about the support that Spain provided to Washington’s army. The Plaque will be installed near the Palace of the Governors front door and Presidio Soldiers records will be available in the Museum files.

The NM Society Color Guard presented and posted the Colors during the Presentation. Four of the members present are direct descendent of Presidio Soldiers. They are Vernon Casias, George Garcia, Charles Martinez y Vigil, and Lionel Rael. The Uniform of the Color Guard is based on the original uniform of the Presidio Soldiers of the period and was chosen by the New Mexico Society to honor them for their support to the American Revolution.

The audience of over 75 attendees included many NM Society compatriots and members of Los Compadries group that support the Museum and other activities in Santa Fe related to the Spanish history and involvement in the development of New Spain and later New Mexico.

The New Mexico Society Color Guard of nine members have presented and posted the Colors at many civic and national events in Santa Fe and Albuquerque. The Gadsden Color Guard provides similar support in the Las Cruces area.

Gene Tomlinson
January 23, 2012