Who We Are
Preserving the Legacy of Kentucky’s Union Veterans
The Department of Kentucky, Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War (SUVCW), preserves the memory of the Union soldiers and sailors who fought to save the nation during its greatest trial. As the direct heirs to the Grand Army of the Republic, we carry forward the traditions of Fraternity, Charity, and Loyalty, honoring the men who defended the Union and safeguarded the freedoms we enjoy today.
Across the Commonwealth, our members work to ensure that Kentucky’s Union heritage is never forgotten. We restore and replace Civil War headstones, conduct graveside rededication ceremonies, research and document the lives of Union veterans, and help families discover their Civil War ancestors. Our Camps participate in parades, historical commemorations, Lincoln Days, Memorial Day observances, and community events that keep this history alive for new generations.
The Department of Kentucky includes five active Camps, each committed to education, preservation, and public service. Together, we strive to protect the legacy of Kentucky’s Union veterans and share their stories with communities throughout the state.
We welcome all who wish to honor this history and help preserve it for the future.
Department of Kentucky
Officers Email
Department Commander: Mike Flynn, mikeflynn784@gmail.com
Senior Vice Commander:, Todd Early, todd.early@ferncreekfire.com
Junior Vice Commander:, John Buckler, jbuck71300@roadrunner.com
Secretary/Treasurer: Bruce Fortin, PDC bfortin59@gmail.com
Department Council:
Timothy Downey, PDC downeytimothy@hotmail.com
Keith Karcher, PDC key4k@aol.com
Jim Kiger, PCC jkiger3@gmail.com
Patriotic Instructor/Chaplain:
Patriotic Instructor- Steve Clifford- bgkscout@aol.com
Chaplain- Richard Lima- dick.lima@hotmail.com
Graves Registration Officer:
Bruce Fortin PDC, bfortin59@gmail.com
Robert Jones, PDC 4thUSCav@gmail.com
Civil War Memorials Officer:
Jack Mills – suitman.80@twc.com
Eagle Scout Coordinator:
John Kalbfleisch – johnbvl@aol.com
Signal Officers:
Phil Seyfrit- petsnakeoilshow@aol.com
Color Bearer/Guard
Roger Hurt, rfhurt@gmail.com
Guard
Irvine Shifflet – 129shifflet1@gmail.com