The Degree of Chevalier recognizes outstanding active and senior 
DeMolays who have rendered exceptional service to DeMolay. Chevalier is a French word translating into “Knight.” In 1935, Br. Clarence Barnickle suggested to “Dad” Land the need for a way to recognize outstanding service to DeMolay, an honor that would be open to active DeMolays. “Dad” Land thought about it and inspiration struck him. In the early days of DeMolay, Active DeMolays who served as mentors and guides for the classes of new members wore yellow pillbox type hats and were called “Chevaliers.” Young men going through the degrees would look for their brothers in yellow hats and know what to do. “Dad” Land took that as an inspiration and in 1936 the degree of Chevalier was approved. “Dad” Marshall had died five years earlier and the task of writing the ritual fell to “Dad” Land. What emerged was a ceremony steeped in tradition echoing the Athenian oath and the creation of a knight in the days of chivalry.
Below is the New York DeMolay Class of 2021 Chevalier Class!
Br. Leonard Vince Lao: Br. Lao is a Past Master Councilor of Knickerbocker Chapter. He has served as Metro Region Master Councilor, State Treasurer and has been a constant voice of guidance and direction for the State Executive Committee. Br. Lao has earned the Representative DeMolay and the Lamp of Knowledge.
Br. Joseph Newton: Br. Newton is a Past Master Councilor of Meridian Sun Chapter and is currently the Master Councilor of Chadwick Bay Chapter in Chautauqua County. Br. Newton has been a hard worker in the DeMolay cause and has earned the Representative DeMolay and the Lamp of Knowledge.
Br. Robin Santos: Br. Santos is a Past Master Councilor of Knickerbocker Chapter. He has served as Metro Region Master Councilor and State Marshal. He has served on the State Executive Committee and helped to execute a number of fantastic state events. Br. Lao has earned the Representative DeMolay, Blue Honor Key, and Founder’s Membership Award.
“Dad” Joseph Dexter “JD” Pepanio: “Dad” Pepanio a Past Master Councilor of Knickerbocker Chapter. He has served as State Scribe where he put together the state officer directory and helped to improve overall communications. Br. Lao has earned the Representative DeMolay, the Lamp of Knowledge, and the Founder’s Membership Award. “Dad” Pepanio continues to give back to DeMolay by mentoring the young men of Knickerbocker Chapter.
“Dad” Gregory A. DeNormand: “Dad” DeNormand is a Past Master Councilor of Ridge Council Chapter, “Dad” DeNormand has a legacy of stellar service leading his chapter to newer and greater heights. “Dad” DeNormand continues to give back to DeMolay through his stalwart service as a DeMolay Adivsor.
“Dad” Bryant Arthur Ira Dorney: “Dad” Dorney is a Past Master Councilor of Ridge Council Chapter where he and his chapter earned the Past Master Councilor’s Meritorious Service Award. “Dad” Dorney has been an advisor for several DeMolay Chapters including Olean, Tuscarora and Ridge Council. He is currently serving as a Region Advisor for the Lakes Region and the State RD Advisor. “Dad” Dorney’s DeMolay awards are numerous including the White Honor Key, The Zerubbabel Key, the Lamp of Knowledge, The Representative DeMolay award, and the Founder’s Membership Award.