In February, DeMolay Chapters around the world observe Patriots Day as an obligatory day. This is a day in which chapters commemorate the country, founding fathers, and past and current military in recognition of patriotism. Wantagh Chapter hosted Col William G. L. Turner, USAF Retired, as their keynote speaker for this Obligatory Day.
Col Turner had a distinguished military career in the United States Airforce and is a very active member of the Masonic fraternity. He served as National President from 2011-2012 of the National Sojourners, a Masonic organization whose active membership is composed of veterans of the United States Armed Forces who help to promote good citizenship, patriotism and Americanism. He was also The National Commander of the Heroes of 76, a group of Sojourners who dress in Revolutionary War Costume and provide educational opportunities about early patriots. He has served as Grand Lodge Officer for three different grand lodges, and currently serves as the Tyler for the Supreme Council of the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite Southern Jurisdiction of the United States of America.
Colonel Turner gave an overview of the cause of American patriotism starting with Emerson’s poem we all learned in 11th Grand English:
“By the rude bridge that arched the flood
Their flag to April's breeze unfurled
Here once the embattled farmers stood
And fired the shot heard round the world.”
Col Turner talked about the battles of Lexington and Concord, the War of 1812, the Civil War, the Spanish American War, and the War to End All Wars (World War I). In each case he spot lighted famous Masons who were involved or supported the cause as well as other patriots. At the end, Colonel Turner hosted Q&A with the DeMolay brothers including questions on government, George Washington, and American History.
The chapter also had a number of State Officers present including State Master Councilor Michael Jordan, Deputy State Master Councilor Brian Ramos, Metro Region Master Councilor Leonard Lao, Rivers Region Master Councilor Jorge Hernandez and Past State Master Councilor Br. Austin Altman.