The French Navy Commemorates 400th Anniversary

The Trocadéro, Paris, Saturday, 5 September 2026

Leadership of the National Society Sons of the American Revolution (SAR), including President General W. Allen Greenly, were the invited guests of the Chief of Staff of the French Navy (Marine Nationale) Admiral Christophe Cluzel at a celebration commemorating the 400th anniversary of the Navy and the 245th anniversary of the Battle of the Chesapeake (aka Battle of the Capes).

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The event was held on the picturesque Trocadéro overlooking the Eiffel Tower and included a sound and light show followed by a VIP reception with senior French and international military and diplomatic leaders.During the reception, Admiral Cluzel was presented the SAR International medal by PG Greenly, in celebration of the enduring Franco-American Naval ties forged by the American Revolution.

Joining PG Greenly were his lady Diane, past PG Michael J. Elston and his lady Julie, Delaware SAR President Troy Foxwell and his lady Carolynn, and SAR International Trustee and past President of the Sgt Maj John Champe Chapter in Loudoun County, Kenneth L. Bonner and his lady Anita. Also attending were leaders of France SAR, including President Hervé Audren de Kerdrel and past President Patrick Mesnard, and their ladies.

The event in Paris was held simultaneously by a large commemoration co-hosted by National SAR Secretary General T. Brooks Lyles and Marine Nationale Admiral Pierre Vandier, NATO SACT, and included among others Virginia SAR President Darrin Schmidt, at JEB Little Creek-Fort Story in Virginia Beach.