Page 11 - Sojourner Newsletter-Spring 2023 v.3

Volume 100, Issue 2 11

IN THE NEWS

George Washington Masonic National Memorial
Centennial Cornerstone Laying Reenactment
February 20, 2023

Hundreds, nay, thousands came to march and watch the George Washington’s Birthday Parade
hosted by the City of Alexandria, Virginia. It was a cloudy and cold day, but the rain held off !! The
wind, well, a stiff breeze, added to the bitter nip in the afternoon air. The Heroes of ’76 were
prominent in a Color Guard capacity, and the National Commander, Brother Randy Geck, led a small
contingent of other Heroes and Camp Followers up the hill to the Memorial for more of the day’s
activities. Indeed, they had recently arrived from the Tomb of the Unknown Revolutionary Soldier at
the Old Presbyterian Meeting House in town, where the Daughters and Sons of the American
Revolution hosted a tribute. Brother Randy’s contingent played a part in that ceremony, as well; and
yes, the Centennial Bennington Flag was present. Brother Masons were everywhere, in the parade, on
the sidelines, at the top of Shooter’s Hill by the Memorial, and especially noteworthy were the Grand
Masters of the United States, who were in town for their Annual Conference with the Grand Masters
of Canada and Mexico. Friends and fellow Sojourners greeted us with enthusiasm. Following the
cornerstone reenactment ceremony of corn, wine, and oil, we were chilled to the bone, so we migrated
back to our warmer abodes. NC Randy was proud-as-a-peacock to see all who participated, a
wonderful event to put in the record books of our Centennial Year !!!

(L-r) Bro. Randall Arnold, Quantico #44, (L-r) Bro. Bill Turner, PNP, PNC, LOH, Grand Dame Patti
Bro. Aaron Irvin, President, Old Dominion #364, Turner, Bro. Randy Geck, NC and Brother Ed Ford,
Bro. Bill Sanner, Federal AR, presenting the Baltimore Chapter #8. Picture was taken in advance of the full
Colors. ceremony.