Veteran’s Committee review of 1st quarter.
The Veteran’s Committee has been busy.
1. The first quarter we have developed and implemented a plan for a Memorial Stone to be laid in Honor of our Brothers and Veteran’s at the National Cemetery in Montevallo. This is well on the way thanks to the generous response from Brothers across the state we have raised right at $11K. This will cover the cost of the stone and allow for funding future Veteran’s projects.
2. The extra funds raised will help fund a planned portrait to be commissioned as an ongoing source of income for the committee that will allow funding of projects without begging Lodges or Brothers to contribute.
3. The National Sojourners and several Lodges across the State have been presenting medals and scholarships to outstanding JROTC Cadets. If your Lodge would like to participate with your local JROTC the GL would like to join you in your efforts, please contact us.
4. The Veteran’s Committee has been pleased to visit several Blue Lodge and Appendant Body fundraising Dinners and events to represent our Veterans.
5. The Committee is working to establish a uniformed color guard to serve at GL formal functions.
These are just some of the things that we are working on this quarter.
Besides continuing the above-mentioned projects some things to look forward to in the coming months. We will be contacting the City of Bham. Veteran’s Day Parade Committee and inquiring about participating with a float representing Mason’s service to our Nation. We are also exploring possibilities of a cross-state motorcycle ride from Huntsville to Mobile along with American Legion and VFW Riders to support our Gold Star Kids.
A few 1st quarter dates to remember
National Vietnam Veteran’s Day
National Medal of Honor Month
The 80th Anniversary of the Battle of Iwo Jima
Ceasefire in Vietnam 1973
The Liberations of Manila and Guadalcanal WWII
Founding of the US Merchant Marines 1938
May God Bless our Nation and our Veterans and may He watch over and protect those who protect us.
Fraternally B.H. Fant, Chairman, Grand Lodge Veterans Committee