America's True Heros

By Midnight Freemason Contributor

WB Gregory J. Knott

In Freemasonry, we often talk about the famous men who have been members of our fraternity, and without question, many movers and shakers such as Presidents, CEO’s, actors, etc. have been proud members of the craft. But there is no greater group of Americans that deserve our thanks than our military veterans. The men and women who have served our country in uniform since the days of the American Revolution, are the finest example of patriots this nation has ever seen.

Carrying the American Flag – WB Carl W. Lewis – Vietnam Veteran & WM of Ogden Lodge No. 754

RWB Denver R. Phelps, Vietnam 

Veteran & SW of Ogden Lodge No. 754

These Veterans served their country, often without great fanfare, and quietly returned home to resume
their lives in the civilian world. Yet their sacrifice has provided freedom for a nation, the likes the world has never seen before. This freedom, and the democracy behind it, has led to greater world peace, promotion of human rights, and the dignity of the individual.

Contained within the roles of our Masonic lodges, are many of these patriots. They don’t seek out special recognition or honors, but are always grateful for a simple handshake and word of thanks. Their example of service and leadership did not end when they hung up the uniform for the final time. They have continued serving their communities, perhaps as members of the local school board, volunteer firefighter, working in the local foodbank while faithfully serving their

WB Carl D. Lewis – WW 2 Veteran &
member Ogden Lodge No. 754

lodges.

As a nation, we can never fully repay their sacrifice, service, and leadership which provide the freedoms we enjoy daily. But on this Veterans Day, we can take a few minutes to remember their service, give thanks for a job well done and extend a hand of gratitude.

~GJK

WB Gregory J. Knott is the Past Master of St. Joseph Lodge No. 970 in St. Joseph (IL) and a plural member of Ogden Lodge No. 754 (IL), Homer Lodge No. 199 (IL) and Naval Lodge No. 4 in Washington, DC.  He’s a member of the Scottish Rite, the York Rite, Eastern Star and is the Charter Secretary of the Illini High Twelve Club No. 768 in Champaign-Urbana.  He is also a member of ANSAR Shrine (IL) and the Eastern Illinois Council No. 356 Allied Masonic Degrees.  Greg serves on the Board of Directors of The Masonic Society and is a member of the Scottish Rite Research Society and The Philathes Society.  Greg is very involved in Boy Scouts—an Eagle Scout himself, he is a member of the National Association of Masonic Scouters.