The Supreme Council of the Scottish Rite, Northern Masonic Jurisdiction, is proud to highlight Illustrious Brother Thomas N. Moe, 33°, Valley of Columbus, who was awarded the Gourgas Medal—the most distinguished honor conferred by the Supreme Council of the Scottish Rite, NMJ.
The Gourgas Medal honors the most deserving Freemasons who demonstrate unwavering commitment to the principles of the Fraternity and humanity. Continue reading to learn about Ill. Brother Moe’s remarkable life of military service and his public dedication - a true embodiment of the Scottish Rite’s Core Values.
Illustrious Brother Thomas Moe, 33°Courage in the Face of Adversity
Ill. Brother Moe's life is a shining example of Devotion to Country, a principle that stands at the very heart of Freemasonry and the Scottish Rite. His military service began when he enlisted in the U.S. Naval Reserve in 1960 and continued through his distinguished career as a U.S. Air Force fighter pilot during the Vietnam War. On January 16, 1968, Moe’s aircraft was shot down during a combat mission over North Vietnamese territory where he evaded capture for three days while signaling for rescue. When enemy forces finally closed in, he destroyed his radio. He knew this act would leave him isolated, but he would not risk jeopardizing his fellow servicemen by allowing his radio to fall into the hands of the enemy.
His profound sense of duty and devotion did not falter even when he was captured and imprisoned. Ill. Brother Moe endured 1,881 days as a prisoner of war in the notorious “Hanoi Hilton,” where he faced brutal conditions and treatment. Despite this, he refused an early release, insisting that prisoners should be freed in the order of their capture. In the true spirit of a Freemason, he put his fellow soldiers before his own well-being – another remarkable testament to Ill. Brother Moe’s values of Brotherhood, loyalty, and integrity.
Illustrious Brother Steven Stefanakos, Active Member for New York, nominated Ill. Brother Moe for the Gourgas Medal. Reflecting on his Brother's selflessness, Stefanakos stated, “Brother Moe’s actions during his imprisonment—his refusal to leave his fellow prisoners behind—demonstrate a level of courage and devotion that few possess. His service to our country is unparalleled.”
A Lifetime of Service
Following his release in March of 1973, Ill. Brother Moe resumed his life of service with the same resilience and dedication that marked his military career. Upon returning to Ohio, he obtained his master’s degree and re-qualified as a fighter pilot so he could continue his service in the U.S. Air Force, eventually commanding a combat-ready fighter squadron and serving as a military attaché to Switzerland. His final assignment was as Commander of the Air Force ROTC detachment at Notre Dame University before retiring in 1995.
Throughout his time in the service, he earned two Silver Stars, a Bronze Star for Valor, two Purple Hearts, and an astounding 18 other military decorations. He became Director of the Ohio Department of Veterans Services so that he could continue to support those who have sacrificed for the nation. “This is a man truly defined, not by the accolades, but by his unwavering commitment to his country and his fellow man,” said Sovereign Grand Commander Walter F. Wheeler.
Dedication to Freemasonry
Brother Moe was raised a Master Mason in Lancaster Lodge No. 57 and later joined the Scottish Rite in the Valley of Columbus. He was coronated a 33rd Degree Mason in 2017. His connection to the Fraternity runs deep, as he often recalls the symbolic token given to him by his grandfather—an ancient, polished stone with the square and compasses—during a serious illness in his childhood. This token, still in his possession, served as a reminder throughout his life of the values of Freemasonry.
The Gourgas Medal not only honors Ill. Brother Moe’s military and public service but also his enduring commitment to Masonic principles. Whether through his speeches to young people, where he emphasizes the importance of humility and service, or his personal contributions to the Fraternity, his life exemplifies the ideal Freemason—one who seeks to better himself and the world around him.
A Man of Integrity
Through all his trials, Brother Moe has remained a man of deep integrity. He endured immense suffering yet harbors no bitterness. Instead, he has dedicated himself to promoting peace and understanding, serving as a Military Studies Fellow at Notre Dame’s Kroc Institute for International Peace Studies after he retired from the service. This position allowed him to offer a unique perspective on the importance of global cooperation and conflict resolution.
Illustrious Brother Thomas Moe received the Gourgas Medal at the Ohio Council of DeliberationSaid Commander Wheeler, “We are honored to award the Gourgas Medal to Brother Thomas N. Moe, 33°, whose life exemplifies the highest ideals of Freemasonry. His extraordinary courage, lifelong service, and unwavering commitment to the Fraternity and humanity are a testament to the values we hold dear. His influence extends to the Masonic community, where his dedication and humility serve as an inspiration to all. His story is a reminder to every Freemason of the power of resilience and the importance of standing together, united in our shared principles.”