Friends of the NYS Military Museum

06/02/2026

Join us in downtown Saratoga Springs for the 57th Annual Saratoga-Wilton Elks Flag Day Parade on Saturday, June 13, 2026 at 12 PM. The Friends of the NYS Military Museum are proud to march as participants as our community honors the American flag and celebrates the 250th birthday of the United States of America. We hope to see you along the parade route!

06/01/2026

Join the AUSA Uncle Sam Chapter for its Golf Fundraiser celebrating America’s 250th birthday on June 15, 2026, at Eagle Crest Golf Course in Clifton Park.

Registration is $160 per player and includes golf, cart, continental breakfast, lunch, buffet dinner, awards, and prizes. Sponsorship opportunities are also available.

For registration or sponsorship details, contact our board member Command Sergeant Major (Ret.) John Willsey at 518-496-2669 or [email protected].

05/29/2026

The Saratoga Automobile Museum is proud to be part of the Blue Star Museums summer program, offering free admission to active-duty military personnel and up to five family members. 🇺🇸

The 2026 program runs from Armed Forces Day, Saturday, May 16, 2026, through Labor Day, Monday, September 7, 2026. We look forward to welcoming military families to explore 140 years of automotive history and our new Mercedes-Benz 1886–2026 exhibition this summer!

05/27/2026

How exciting to see both the Adirondacks and Saratoga named to USA TODAY 10Best’s list of the best places to celebrate America’s 250th birthday! 🇺🇸

The Adirondacks earned recognition for their picture-perfect small-town celebrations, complete with parades, fireworks, family fun and beautiful mountain scenery. Saratoga stands out for its powerful connection to the American Revolution, giving visitors the chance to celebrate this historic milestone where a turning point in our nation’s fight for independence took place.

Two incredible Upstate New York destinations, one unforgettable celebration of America’s story. ❤️🤍💙

One spot in the Adirondacks and one near Saratoga Springs have been named "must-see" American Revolution landmarks.

05/27/2026

The Friends of the New York State Military Museum proudly congratulates Colonel Christopher J. Douglas, USMC (Ret.), on his induction into the New York State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame.

Colonel Douglas is a decorated combat veteran whose distinguished career includes more than three decades of military service, five combat tours, and continued service in support of our nation. In addition to his military career, he served for 24 years with the New York State Police, retiring as a Narcotics Investigator.

We are honored that Colonel Douglas serves as a Trustee of the Friends of the New York State Military Museum, alongside his wife, Susan E. Douglas, whose own lifetime of service as an educator, military family advocate, civic leader, and dedicated volunteer strengthens our mission.

Together, Chris and Susan embody the values of service, leadership, patriotism, and commitment to community that we strive to preserve and honor every day.

Congratulations, Colonel Douglas, on this well-deserved recognition, and thank you to the Douglas family for your continued service to our nation, New York State, and the mission of the Museum.

05/25/2026

On Memorial Day, the Friends of the New York State Military Museum honor and remember the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation.

Shown here, members of the New York National Guard pay their respects in observance of Memorial Day 2026.

May their courage, service, and sacrifice never be forgotten.

Photo by Stephanie Butler.

05/24/2026

Saratoga County veterans: learn more about the benefits, support, and local resources available to you. Please share with a veteran who may benefit from this conversation. 🇺🇸

05/22/2026

Before Memorial Day became a national observance, communities across New York were already gathering to honor those who gave their lives in service to the nation.

In 1866, Waterloo, New York held one of the earliest complete community wide observances dedicated to remembering fallen Civil War soldiers. The village would later become officially recognized as the birthplace of Memorial Day.

As Memorial Day approaches, we remember the generations of Americans who never made it home.

05/21/2026

Today, Saratoga paused to honor the memory and sacrifice of 44 Continental Army veterans as the Repose of the Fallen Procession made its way through our community.

05/19/2026

As we approach the Repose of the Fallen Procession on May 20, we invite our community to take a moment to remember and honor the 44 individuals who perished at Lake George in 1776. Along the route from Albany to Lake George, residents are encouraged to gather respectfully and witness this powerful journey to their final resting place.

About 6 years later, the unearthed remains of Continental Army soldiers will be laid to rest at Lake George Battlefield Park.