By ALLYSON COOK

(WARRENSBURG, Mo., digitalBURG) — Operation Find Your Patriot is making its first visit to the University of Central Missouri on Saturday. The event assists active duty military and veteran families trace their ancestry and find an American Patriot in their bloodline.

The Martin Warren Chapter of Sons of American Revolution is hosting the event from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the UCM Military and Veteran Success Center in the Elliott Student Union Room 117.

The program utilizes Ancestory.com, free with the help from SAR members. They help find an American patriot who fought or provided aid and support in the American Revolution from 1775 to 1783.

The idea for the program came from Sgt. Douglas Christie, who is an active duty member of the military and a member of the Martin Warren Chapter, and was inspired from the Operation Ancestor Search initiated by SAR for wounded warriors, according to Mike Powers, member of the Martin Warren Chapter.

The goal of finding American Patriots in people’s bloodlines is to interest them in becoming members of the Sons or Daughters of the American Revolution.

Delilah Nichols, coordinator for military and veteran services, helped bring together the Martin Warren Chapter and office of military and veteran services.

“I’m thrilled when the Office of Military and Veteran Services can brainstorm with other military and veteran service organizations and provide opportunities for military and veteran families not only connected to our campus but to the surrounding communities as a whole,” Nichols said.

Reservations are welcome by contacting the Office of Military and Vetran Services but are not necessary.

“So far we only have a very small handful of people going so far, but we would love to have more,” said Elizabeth Crawford, veteran’s affairs work-study student at the MVSC.

Powers said he enjoys genealogy and is excited to host this event for the community.

“If only one person shows and we are able to expand their family genealogy, then it will be successful,” he said.