Mission & Purpose

MISSION STATEMENT

The Department of Kentucky, Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War (SUVCW), is dedicated to preserving the memory and legacy of the Union soldiers and sailors who fought to save the nation. We work across the Commonwealth to educate the public on the history of the Union in the Civil War, preserve and maintain historical sites, monuments, and cemeteries, and honor the memory of Union veterans through ceremonies and memorials. Through our five Camps, we encourage youth and adults alike to join us in continuing this proud legacy of remembrance, service, and historical stewardship.

Mission & Purpose

The Department of Kentucky, SUVCW, is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization and the legal heir to the Grand Army of the Republic. Our mission is rooted in the principles of Fraternity, Charity, and Loyalty, and carried out through:

Preservation & Stewardship

  • Restoring, cleaning, and replacing Civil War headstones and markers

  • Maintaining and protecting historic cemeteries, monuments, and memorials

  • Supporting efforts to identify the last Civil War soldier buried in each Kentucky county

Education & Public Outreach

  • Teaching the public about Kentucky’s Union heritage and the role of Union soldiers in the Civil War

  • Assisting families in researching and documenting their Union ancestors

  • Providing historical programs, presentations, and community engagement

Ceremony & Commemoration

  • Conducting graveside rededications and memorial services

  • Participating in Lincoln Days, Memorial Day/Decoration Day, Veterans Day, Gettysburg ceremonies, and other commemorative events

  • Presenting ROTC/JROTC awards and Eagle Scout certificates

Membership & Legacy

  • Encouraging youth and adults to join our mission of remembrance

  • Supporting five active Camps across the Commonwealth

  • Ensuring that the sacrifices of Union veterans remain visible, relevant, and honored by future generations

We honor the legacy of Kentucky’s Union soldiers by safeguarding historic sites, conducting solemn ceremonies, and sharing their stories with future generations.

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Ceremonial & Mission‑Driven

Our Legacy Our Duty

Our Mission purpose
  • Educate the public on the history of the Union in the Civil War.
  • Preserve and maintain historical sites, monuments, and cemeteries.
  • Honor the memory of Union veterans through ceremonies and memorials.
  • Encourage youth and adults to join and continue our legacy.
Grave Marker Ceremonies
2026
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