0:00
Chorus: *singing of the National Anthem*
0:18
Narrator: The history of our fraternity has been wrapped around the American flag since the founding of our nation. Just as the history of our democracy has been forged by generations of Freemasons who dedicated their lives to serve in whatever way they were called upon to ensure that our country’s flag would continue to proudly wave.
0:38
Alan Foulds, 33°: That footage is from our old production of Freemasonry and the American flag and it’s a fitting preface to this episode where we introduce the newest recognition program of the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction.
[musical interlude]
0:56
Alan Foulds, 33°: When the Supreme Council staff began working on this new veterans program, we identified two objectives. The first was to thank all those who served their country, but we also wanted another way to stay in contact with our members.
This new program recognizes all Scottish Rite members of the jurisdiction who are honorably discharged from the United States military or uniformed services.
1:17
Alan Foulds, 33°: So, how do we gather military service data? It’s provided by you.
To give us your service history, visit the website scottishritenmj.org.
Once there, go to the member center and enter your service branch, dates, and discharge data. The information is then forwarded to your Valley secretary who will make sure that you receive a pin and, soon after, a certificate suitable for framing.
1:43
Alan Foulds, 33°: Why does the pin read “Defender of Peace and Freedom?” Nobody serves for a love of war, most veterans will tell you the real reason: to maintain freedom and a way of life, and to hope for peace.
Illustrious Sammy Lee Davis, a Congressional Medal of Honor recipient, said it best..
2:00
Illustrious Sammy Lee Davis, 33°: With a broken back and all shot up, I carried three of my brothers back across the river. I don’t think I could’ve hated enough to carry three of my brothers at one time, but you can love that much. And that’s what gave me the strength to carry my brothers back. [02:15]The brotherly love I have in my heart came from what my grandfather and my daddy taught me through the Masonic Lodge. The Medal of Honor, to me, is part of the obligation I had then and still do owe my Brothers.
2:37
Alan Foulds, 33°: We hope that you are inspired by this Supreme Council recognition and you’ll reach out and thank a Brother you see wearing the Peace and Freedom pin.
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