Page 39 - November 2020

Salute to
SERVICE
We asked Lodge 7 members to share photos and memories of their time in the military. Look at the response.
Antoinette Alcazar
U.S. Army
8 years
“It was one of the greatest honors in my lifetime to serve this country. Born in Chile, I am American by choice and proud.”
Andre Balseca
USMC
4 years active service
“I was given a sense of purpose at such a young age. It meant I not only had to take care of myself, but I put my brothers before me.”
Richard Bankus
U.S. Army
4 years active duty “Serving in the military taught me selfless sacrifice.”
George J. Bereckis
U.S. Army
1966-1968, 17 months overseas duty
“I was transformed from a smart-aleck street punk into a disciplined, well-mannered adult man with a strong sense of purpose.”
John Block
USMC 1980-1986
“Best move I ever made was joining the Marines.”
Thomas E. Boyd
U.S. Army
1967-69, Vietnam 1968-69
“The military training gave me a sense of purpose and taught me how to live on my own while still functioning as a group getting a job done.”
Allen Cain
USMC
6 years
“I was proud to serve my country just as those before me did.”
Juan Cardenas
USMC
1999-2003
“Serving my country has given me the opportunities to live life and provide for my loved ones.”
John Chojnacki
U.S. Air Force and Illinois National Guard 1969-2005
“God, honor, country.”
Thomas F. Ciraulo
U.S. Army Military Police Officer 1970-72
“I am, and always was, a patriot.”
Thomas Cepeda
U.S. Air Force 1969-74
“The Air Force taught me how to be a responsible adult and to be accountable for my actions.”
Michael Connelly
U.S. Air Force
4 years served, including 1 year in Vietnam “Proud to have served my country both then and now.”
CHICAGO LODGE 7 ■ NOVEMBER 2020 39