Troward:The Hidden Power - Part 1

by Midnight Freemason Guest Contributor

Bro. Mark St. Cyr

The following is my attempt to apply contemporary verbiage to one of the most unsung heroes of this modern age, Thomas Troward. (1846 -1916)  If the name sounds vaguely familiar, there’s a reason. Freemasons might recall his thoughts as a Masonic scholar, along with Albert G. Mackey, William Harvey,  H.L. Haywood, W.L. Fawcette from the book “The Two Great Pillars of Boaz and  Jachin”. 

Whether or not Judge Troward was a Freemason, I am not sure, for the more I researched the more I found works of his relating to the topic, but none showing initiation or affiliation.  

However, his name and work go far beyond the Craft and are foundational for many ideas practiced today, such as… 

AA (e.g., Alcoholics Anonymous), New Thought Movement (e.g., accumulated wisdom and philosophy from a variety of origins, such as Ancient Greek,  Roman, Egyptian, Chinese, Taoist, Hindu, and Buddhist cultures), right through to today’s “Positive Thinking” movement. (e.g., Bob Proctor of “The Secret”  fame credits Troward’s work in much of his own. This is just a sampling, it’s far deeper and far more consuming than one may judge at first glance. But, his influence is everywhere, it’s just most have no idea.  

I’d like to change that. 

So what I’m offering starting with this sample below is to take chapter by chapter, point by point while keeping his original intent and examples in tact i.e.,  not adding or changing things into what I think, but what he said directly as succinctly as possible with more contemporary verbiage and phrasing.  

I will footnote the book using the APA 7th edition method or similar. The heading titles are not changed unless noted, for those that want to see read the original text. You can find it across the web, for free (for it is all in the Public  Domain), or, you can easily download a digital version on services like Kindle®  (for a cost) or others, or simply get a hardcopy at many booksellers. 

Now, when it comes to this subject matter, it’s not as if I’m some wide-eyed “Holy Moly! I’ve found the holy grail!” type. I’ve been at this, and doing this, for a very long time. I have many first editions, first printings from the likes of Andrew Carnegie (Empire of Business 1902) through Napoleon Hill’s “Think and Grow Rich” and more. So it’s not like I’m not literally invested in such topics or I don’t know what is being professed and its intent, or the profound meanings encapsulated that so many are looking for today but just can’t seem to find. 

Everywhere you turn today, someone’s coming up with ancient wisdom is some  “new and improved” version, taking the original expressions, and trying to turn them into some soundbite or quote on social media with no understanding of what truly is at the root and why. 

This project I’m starting here on the Midnight Freemasons is to try and alleviate just that making it understandable, relatable, and more importantly - applicable to one’s daily life. 

I hope you agree. 

Now let’s begin…

The Hidden Power: Chapter 1, Section 1  

To truly understand how much of our daily lives are influenced by symbols, we need to answer the age-old question: What is Truth? As we start to recognize this, we begin to approach Truth. Realizing Truth means being able to interpret symbols, whether they are natural or conventional, and not just dismissing them as meaningless. The main responsibility of those who have attained this knowledge is to help others understand this connection. 

Everything has an inner and outer aspect; a superficial mind fails to grasp the deeper truth because it only focuses on the outer appearance. As long as this is the case, a person cannot comprehend their connection to the universal, and thus cannot make progress in understanding. Denying the principle of "Growth,"  which is fundamental to all aspects of life, whether spiritual, intellectual, or material, leads to stagnation. 

Growth and expansion from within, in alignment with the natural order, is the  Law of Life. This principle unlocks the mysteries of existence. Without this  understanding, we cannot move from the superficial to the deeper aspects of life. Recognizing this inner truth allows us to see that life is richer and more meaningful when we look beyond the surface.

In a broad sense, everything is a symbol of the deeper truth within it, and Nature is a gallery of hidden meanings for those who can interpret them. Our lives are shaped by how we understand these symbols, especially in relation to the  Divine. A person's beliefs about the Divine influence their entire life, not just their formal adherence to a specific creed. 

Has a person's mind truly reached a point where they know God or understand the knowledge they possess about the Divine? Without inner clarity, one's mind remains in chaos, with elements of being disordered and conflicting. Progressing further means realizing that there is a governing power within, even if initially obscured. Otherwise, life becomes a constant struggle to reconcile inner chaos. Every step towards understanding, from the lowest levels of ignorance to the highest peaks of intelligence, must reflect the deeper realization of one's connection to the Divine. This realization dissolves old limitations and leads to freedom, power, and light. True understanding is not merely theoretical but involves a deep, conscious experience of life within ourselves. 

The closer we get to this inner understanding, the clearer our perception of symbols becomes. However, this journey is not easy, as each step involves convincing ourselves that the symbols are not the truth itself but representations of a deeper reality. The difficulty lies in moving beyond mere symbols to grasp the Truth they point to. 

Many may fear the changes that this deeper understanding brings, preferring the familiar over the unknown. Yet, the true power of the universe continually pushes forward, encouraging growth and overcoming limitations. Realizing the hidden power within leads to ultimate Truth, beyond any superficial understanding. True inner Truth is not an excuse for inaction or fear. Those lacking the energy to seek deeper meaning remain in the superficial aspects of life. True realization involves pushing forward with confidence, trusting that the inner power of the universe will guide us to greater understanding and fulfillment.

Mark St. Cyr - Freemason

Pause for thought and Congratulations!

by Midnight Freemason Guest Contributor

Jack Heide

The recent announcement by Universal Co-Masonry through social media of their work of a beautiful new archives building in Larkspur, Colorado is an inspiring development that highlights the continued growth and vitality within certain sectors of Freemasonry. Universal Co-Masonry, which admits both men and women, has seen steady expansion in recent years even as many “mainstream” Grand Lodges have struggled with declining membership, lodge closures, and consolidation.

The fact that Universal Co-Masonry is investing in new infrastructure and has the resources to build a dedicated archives facility is a testament to the health of their organization. It demonstrates that there remains an eager population seeking out the fellowship, ritual, and teachings that Freemasonry provides.

Moreover, while the archives building represents physical growth, it is also indicative of broader success across various facets of the organization. The ability to undertake such a project suggests financial stability, effective leadership, and an engaged membership base. It prompts one to consider when “mainstream” Freemasonry last experienced growth driven by genuine increases in membership, rather than focusing on retention or trying to get more people in the door regardless of their suitability or commitment to Masonic principles.

However, most “mainstream” Grand Lodges would consider Universal Co-Masonry to be "clandestine" since it does not conform to their standards of recognition and ancient landmarks, particularly in its inclusion of female members. This raises thought-provoking questions about the future trajectory of Freemasonry.

As overall interest in joining fraternal organizations has waned in recent decades, many “mainstream” Lodges have struggled to attract new members, especially younger ones. Aging member bases, lack of public awareness, and failure to adapt to changing social norms and expectations have contributed to this decline. If these trends continue unabated, Freemasonry as practiced by “mainstream” Grand Lodges risks fading into obscurity.

So what lessons can be drawn from the comparative success of Universal Co-Masonry?

Inclusivity seems to play a key role. By welcoming female members, Universal Co-Masonry expands its potential pool of recruits and projects a more modern, equitable image that aligns with contemporary social values. This approach not only boosts numbers but also infuses the organization with fresh perspectives and talent. However, admitting women would be a seismic shift for “mainstream” Freemasonry, challenging centuries of tradition and potentially causing significant internal dissent. “Mainstream” Lodges might consider more incremental steps, such as partnering with women's auxiliaries or sponsoring inclusive community events, to signal openness without radically altering their core structure. Or even, going out on limb here, maybe recognize women-only masonic lodges and grand lodges, so there is modern parity and status with male lodges and grand lodges. 

Flexibility and openness to change appear to be important factors. While “mainstream” Lodges often strictly adhere to long-standing traditions and membership requirements, Universal Co-Masonry seems more willing to innovate and adapt. Reexamining entrenched practices and restrictions could help “mainstream” Lodges remove barriers to growth and relevance. Yet too much change risks diluting the unique identity and heritage of Freemasonry. A balanced approach might involve carefully evaluating which traditions are essential to preserve and which could be modified to better serve current needs and aspirations.

Proactive outreach and public engagement can make a significant difference. Many “mainstream” Lodges have struggled with a lack of public awareness and understanding about Freemasonry, allowing misconceptions to proliferate. Universal Co-Masonry likely benefits from more effective communication strategies that raise its profile and transmit a positive message to potential members. However, excessive publicity or aggressive recruitment tactics could undermine the mystique and selectivity associated with Masonry. “mainstream” Lodges might focus on targeted outreach emphasizing their charitable works, community involvement, and personal development opportunities, while still maintaining a degree of discretion.

Providing a clear value proposition is critical in an era of countless competing demands on people's time and attention. Universal Co-Masonry seems to be successfully conveying the tangible benefits of membership, whether through fulfilling social connections, personal development programs, meaningful charitable work, or esoteric education. “mainstream” Lodges must ensure they are offering similarly compelling reasons to join and remain involved. At the same time, they should be wary of trend-chasing or diluting their core identity in an attempt to appeal to every possible audience. Striking a balance may involve focusing on the unique transformative aspects of Masonic ritual and teachings while finding fresh ways to apply them to contemporary challenges and interests.

In navigating these considerations, “mainstream” Freemasonry might benefit from adopting a "Resist-Accept-Direct" framework. The concept of Resist-Accept-Direct, as applied to organizational change and strategic planning, appears to have originated within the field of future studies and foresight. It has been used by various futurists, strategists, and consultants as a framework for helping organizations navigate complex, uncertain, and rapidly changing environments. The framework involves asking three key questions: What do we preserve? What do we allow to change? And what do we purposefully change?

The first question, "What do we preserve?" calls for clear identification and fierce protection of the core elements of Masonic tradition, ritual, and teachings that define the Craft's distinct identity. These might include the essential initiatic experiences, the use of symbols and allegory to convey moral and spiritual lessons, and the emphasis on personal growth and brotherly love. By resisting any dilution or alteration of these fundamental aspects, Lodges ensures that Freemasonry remains a unique and transformative path for those who seek it out.

The second question, "What do we allow to change?" recognizes that some degree of organic evolution is natural and even necessary for Freemasonry to remain relevant in changing times. This might encompass gradual shifts in the demographics of membership, the incorporation of new technologies in Lodge operations and communications, or the updating of certain ceremonial elements to reflect contemporary language and sensibilities. The key is to accept these changes gracefully when they arise from within the Craft while ensuring they do not compromise the essential nature and purpose of Masonry.

The third question, "What do we purposefully change?" advocates for proactive, intentional initiatives to address areas where Freemasonry has struggled to adapt. For example, Lodges might choose to purposefully change their public outreach strategies, developing a more engaging online presence, participating in community events, and collaborating with local organizations to showcase the positive impact of Masonry. They might purposefully change their membership processes, streamline application procedures, offer flexible dues structures, and create mentorship programs to better integrate and retain new brothers. Or they might purposefully change their leadership development approach, providing training in modern management techniques and encouraging younger members to take on progressive roles and responsibilities.

“Mainstream” Freemasonry could begin to address these questions through a thoughtful and inclusive process of self-assessment and strategic planning. This might involve surveying members to gather insights on what they value most about the Craft and where they see opportunities for improvement. It could include forming study groups or task forces to examine specific issues and propose recommendations for change. It would certainly require open and honest dialogue among Lodge leaders and members, as well as a willingness to experiment with new approaches and learn from the successes and challenges of other jurisdictions.

Importantly, this process should be guided by a shared commitment to preserving the timeless essence of Freemasonry while also ensuring its continued vitality and relevance. By striking a balance between resistance and acceptance, tradition and innovation, “mainstream” Lodges can chart a purposeful course toward a stronger, more vibrant future.

By identifying the core elements of Masonic tradition, ritual, and teachings that must be zealously guarded, Lodges can ensure they maintain a distinct identity rooted in centuries of history and wisdom. At the same time, acknowledging areas where flexibility and organic evolution can be accommodated allows for gradual adaptation to changing social contexts without forcing the issue. Finally, proactively initiating certain changes, such as in the areas of public outreach, membership processes, or leadership development, affords Lodges greater control over their future direction.

Ultimately, the path forward for “mainstream” Grand Lodges is not an easy one, but it may require taking inspiration from the success stories in Masonry, even if they come from unfamiliar or unrecognized quarters. The Universal Co-Masonry archives project is a reminder that Freemasonry still holds appeal and relevance for many. The question is whether “mainstream” Lodges can adapt to tap into that potential before it is too late. By carefully weighing the pros and cons of different approaches, seeking a middle path between tradition and innovation, and applying a framework of purposeful change balanced with preservation of core identity, “mainstream” Freemasonry may yet find a way to thrive in the 21st century.

No matter the current direction of any Masonic organization, I give hearty congratulations to Universal Co-Masonry and all their current and future endeavors!

~JH

Jack Heide is Junior Deacon of Beverly-Riverside Lodge No. 107 in Riverside, New Jersey. He holds a Masters of Community and Regional Planning degree from the University of Oregon, and Masters in Homeland Security and Defense from the Naval Postgraduate School. He works in the field of emergency management in the New York, New Jersey Region, where he resides with wife and daughter.

WB Bill Hosler - A tribute to our fallen friend and contributor & his very last unfinished installment of the 50 year member series

by Midnight Freemason Contributor

WB Darin A. Lahners

Nothing can ever prepare you for the loss of a friend and colleague, especially when their death is so sudden.  There's not much more that I can add to all of the loving tributes to Bill Hosler. Bill impacted so many people and touched so many lives. He touched mine in so many profound ways. To say that I will miss him is an understatement. The hole that losing Bill has left in many of our lives will never be filled. We just have to find a way to cope.  

I consider myself blessed to have worked in the Masonic Quarries with Bill, and honored to be able to call him my friend.  I first started speaking with Bill shortly after I started writing for this blog in 2017.  At first, we may have been a mutual admiration society.  Later, when I started to be an editor of the blog, I would edit Bill's writings and give him feedback on some of his articles and we became collaborators.  When Greg Knott and I decided to start a podcast, after some of our early test recordings, we decided we needed another voice, and I thought immediately of Bill. 

It is through the podcast and the hours that Greg, Bill, and I would spend before and after each episode just having those deep, philosophical discussions where we would solve all of Freemasonry's problems, much like all Freemasons do in the parking lot before or after a lodge meeting, where I believe we formed a stronger bond. I am so happy that I was able to meet Bill in person.  At the beginning of August 2020, when it seemed that maybe the COVID pandemic was coming to an end, Bill visited Greg and I.  I was Worshipful Master of St. Joseph #970 AF&AM in Illinois for the second time.  It was an amazing evening, which Bill wrote about here: Virtual Friendship, Real Life Brotherhood.  I'm so happy to have that experience and the memories that go with it.  I'm also happy to have had the episodes of Meet, Act, and Part with Bill.  At some point when I'm able to listen to them without breaking down in tears, I know I can always hear his wonderful laugh, which was so unique, just like Bill was.  

The last time I communicated with Bill, I had called him to check in on him.  It went to voicemail, and he sent me a text the next day that he and Tammi were on a cruise and he was in the middle of the Atlantic. He told me he would be home last Tuesday. I replied and told him I would call him then, but as life often does, I became preoccupied with work and a busy Masonic week.  I had every intention of calling him last Friday, but on my way home this past Thursday from a stated meeting at the very same Lodge that Bill had visited us at, I received a text from Bill's lady, Tammi. It was coming from Bill's number, asking Greg or I to call her.  It seemed odd that she would be using Bill's phone. I braced myself for bad news, but I did not imagine it would be news of his passing.  I have been beating myself up that I didn't get that last conversation with him, but as our mutual friend Robert Johnson told me, I would probably be hurting even more (if that's possible) having had that conversation.

Bill recently had been working on another installment of his 50-year Member series, but he was having trouble with how he should end it.  I had been encouraging Bill to think about how he would end the series, and telling him that he needed to publish all of the series as a book.  Ironically, the last installment of the series would be entitled "Why?" That's how many of us feel regarding Bill's passing.  Bill and I had exchanged some ideas on how the below article would end, but I think it's appropriate to end it as suddenly as Bill left us. 

    

The 50 Year Member-Why?

By

Bill Hosler, PM

Pudge is sitting in the living room of the 50 Year member. He knocked on John’s door and as soon as the old man opened it he could see the look of anguish on his face. “Have you seen this?” Pudge asked as he handed his friend a piece of printed paper  Pudge had snatched from his printer in disgust. “Why? Can it be true?  It makes no sense to make.”

The old man placed his reading glasses on his nose and began to read what his friend had given him slowly.  “Honestly, I don’t know what to say. “ the 50-year member said in a very sad, some could say grief-stricken tone.  “It doesn’t make any sense.”

Pudge who was slowly sinking into the old man’s living room chair said “Why? It can’t be. He would have made a great Grand Master. He had so many good ideas to help the Fraternity thrive. All the guys were eager to support him and work with him. Now, it’s all gone”

Pudge was lamenting about an email sent to the membership to the membership of his Grand Lodge. The email stated that Randy Jones, a popular member and the  Deputy Grand Master had been expelled from the Fraternity over charges that he had abused his power and had committed conduct unbecoming a Mason. “It can’t be true. He wasn’t like that.” Pudge continued “Lots of guys I have talked to in our online group are really mad! They don’t believe these charges. Many of them are so mad they are talking about quitting and starting their own clandestine lodge!”  

The old man shook his head. “Starting another Grand Lodge makes as much sense as burning your house down because you saw a spider.”  “That is the last thing that should be done.”

The old man continued. “First we don’t know what is truly going on.  There is always a chance that the charges leveled at Randy could be true. We are on the outside looking in. I will admit that I have known Randy for a long time and that doesn’t sound like him.”

“Second. Let’s just say for a minute that the charges could be fake and Randy has been framed. It is plausible. I mean his aggressive new ideas for next year have some of the old guard on edge. The status quo will be gone and the elders will lose their power base and Masonry as they have known it for nearly three-quarters of a century will be gone. The change they have been scared of for so long will be here and the days of beating the drum for new members just to have the members quit a year later will be a thing of the past. Masonic education will be strong and the membership will learn the things they have been saying for years are not false or even worse a lie. With each new member is a potential vote against them.

That is my suggestion to you fellows. As the British said during the darkest hours of World War Two once said: “Keep calm and carry on.”  He continued “You and I both know you young fellows will be running things.   It has to be that way because old guys like me will be gone. Just like someday you guys will be replaced by the next generation. If you quit there will be no one left to try and fight for what you want and then Masonry will surely die. Not because of the old guys of today who won’t change but because your generation picked up their ball and went home. Encourage each other.  Work together. Stay active in Grand Lodge and vote for what you believe in. Just like in the real world if you don’t vote you let the few who did pick your destiny. If you know Brothers who have quit out of discouragement talk them into coming back. They will be needed. Every potential vote you can rally brings you closer to your goals.”

“Just remember one thing:  when times change, we both know they will not block the efforts of the young men who want to shape the craft. Remember how you feel right now."

  

Bill, I certainly do not want to remember how I feel right now.  I have lost you, my friend. This feeling sucks.  However, I will honor your wishes.  Much like the 50-year member tells Pudge that he can't quit, neither can we.  The best way I know to honor you is to continue to keep the Midnight Freemasons blog going and to keep recording Meet, Act, and Part.  Neither will be the same without you. As Bill ended his article regarding his visit to St. Joseph #970; I end this article. Much like the line in the Tyler's toast used in English festive boards ”Happy to meet, sorry to part, happy to meet again.”   My friend, I will be happy when we meet again in the lodge on high.  Until then, many of us will keep your memory alive.

Bill's Masonic accomplishments are many, and can be found here: Bill Hosler Obituary  Please keep his fiancé Tammi and his family in your prayers. If you are able to, please join Greg Knott and I along with other Masonic friends of Bill at his Masonic rites this coming Saturday, June 15 at 2pm Eastern Time at the Lindenwood Cemetery Chapel in Fort Wayne, Indiana. I’d like to be able to have as many Freemasons as possible show up for Bill. 

~DAL

A Freemason at D-Day: Theodore Roosevelt Jr.

by Midnight Freemason Contributor

WB Darin A. Lahners

           

One of my favorite things to do while on vacation is to visit museums and/or graveyards. On a recent trip to New Orleans, I visited the National WWII Museum.  Because tomorrow (June 6), celebrates the 80th anniversary of D-Day or Operation Overlord (which was the Allies' airborne and amphibious operation to invade German-Occupied France), I felt the timing was perfect for this article.  

There were four freedoms were outlined by President Franklin Delano Roosevelt in his State of The Union speech on January 6, 1941.  One has to remember that before the Japanese "surprise" attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7th, 1941, there was a very strong isolationist movement that desired to keep the United States from entering the war.  Roosevelt took a stance against this movement and stated that the United States had a responsibility to fight for four universal principles of freedom that all of the world's citizens should be able to enjoy.

FDR stated in this speech that: 

"No realistic American can expect from a dictator's peace international generosity, or return of true independence, or world disarmament, or freedom of expression, or freedom of religion -- or even good business.  Such a peace would bring no security for us or for our neighbors.  'Those, who would give up essential liberty to purchase a little temporary safety, deserve neither liberty nor safety.' "

The four freedoms that FDR outlined were:

1. Freedom of Speech and Expression

2. Freedom to Worship God in one's own way

3. Freedom from Want - FDR explained this freedom as encompassing economic stability that would ensure every nation had a "healthy peacetime" when the war ended.

4. Freedom from Fear - FDR explained this freedom would come about due to the reduction of armaments worldwide when the war ended.

Why would these freedoms be important? To understand that, we need to understand the characteristics of Fascism. The Cohen Center for Holocaust and Genocide Studies at Keene State College (https://www.keene.edu/academics/cchgs/resources/presentation-materials/characteristics-and-appeal-of-fascism/download/) lists the below characteristics of Fascism:

1. Powerful, often exclusionary, populist nationalism centered on a cult of a redemptive, “infallible” leader who never admits mistakes.
2. Political power derived from questioning reality, endorsing myth and rage, and promoting lies.
3. Fixation with perceived national decline, humiliation, or victimhood.
4. White Replacement “Theory” is used to show that democratic ideals of freedom and equality are a threat. Oppose any initiatives or institutions that are racially, ethnically, or religiously harmonious.
5. Disdain for human rights while seeking purity and cleansing for those they define as part of the nation.
6. Identification of “enemies”/scapegoats as a unifying cause. Imprison and/or murder opposition and minority group leaders.
7. Supremacy of the military and embrace of paramilitarism in an uneasy, but effective collaboration with traditional elites. Fascists arm people and justify and glorify violence as “redemptive”.
8. Rampant sexism.
9. Control of mass media and undermining “truth”.
10. Obsession with national security, crime and punishment, and fostering a sense of the nation under attack.
11. Religion and government are intertwined.
12. Corporate power is protected and labor power is suppressed.
13. Disdain for intellectuals and the arts not aligned with the fascist narrative.
14. Rampant cronyism and corruption. Loyalty to the leader is paramount and often more important than competence.
15. Fraudulent elections and the creation of a one-party state.
16. Often seeking to expand territory through armed conflict.

FDR's Four Freedoms would become a mission statement as to why the United States had to join the allied powers to defeat Fascism in Europe and Asia, and as a moral compass for the United States after the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, on December 7, 1941.  Many former military officers seeing the writing on the wall had returned to active military service.  One of these was FDR's cousin, Theodore Roosevelt Jr. 

The eldest son of President (and Freemason) Theodore Roosevelt,  Theodore Roosevelt Jr. was born on Sept. 13, 1887, at the family estate in Oyster Bay, New York.  He graduated from Havard University in 1908, and became an extremely successful businessman.  He accumulated a large personal fortune, which he would use to advance himself politically.  During this time, he attended along with his three brothers General Leonard Wood's military training camp for business professionals; which would later evolve into the Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC).

When the United States entered WWI, Ted Jr. along with his brothers and their sister would join the military. The brothers all served in combat while Ethel became a combat nurse. Ted Jr. would be commissioned as a Major. As a battalion commander, Ted Jr. took his role very seriously.  It is rumored that he personally purchased a new pair of combat boots for every man in his unit. He eventually would become the commander of the 26th Regiment in the 1st Infantry Division as a Lieutenant Colonel. He fought in several major battles, including America's first victory at the Battle of Cantigny. 

Ted's youngest brother, Quentin, was killed in action; while his brother Archie along with himself would be badly wounded.  This led to Ted needing to use a cane for the rest of his life. He was awarded both the Distinguished Service Cross and the French Chevalier Legion d'Hommeur.  Ted was also one of the founders of the American Legion. The below taken, which is taken from the American Legion Post Officers Guide, states:

A group of twenty officers who served in the American Expeditionary Forces (A.E.F.) in France in World War I is credited with planning the Legion. A.E.F. Headquarters asked these officers to suggest ideas on how to improve troop morale. One officer, Lieutenant Colonel Theodore Roosevelt, Jr., proposed an organization of veterans. In February 1919, this group formed a temporary committee and selected several hundred officers who had the confidence and respect of the whole army. When the first organization meeting took place in Paris in March 1919, about 1,000 officers and enlisted men attended. The meeting, known as the Paris Caucus, adopted a temporary constitution and the name The American Legion. It also elected an executive committee to complete the organization's work. It considered each soldier of the A.E.F. a member of the Legion. The executive committee named a subcommittee to organize veterans at home in the U.S. The Legion held a second organizing caucus in St. Louis, Missouri, in May 1919. It completed the constitution and made plans for a permanent organization. It set up temporary headquarters in New York City, and began its relief, employment, and Americanism programs. Congress granted the Legion a national charter in September 1919.

After WWI, Ted would follow his father and become active in politics.  In 1924, he ran for governor of New York, but he lost the election due to well-publicized disagreements with his cousin, future president, Franklin Delano Roosevelt.  Ted would serve in the New York Assembly, as the Assistant Secretary of the Navy, and later as Governor of Puerto Rico and Governor General of the Philippines.  Ted would return to the United States shortly after his cousin, FDR, became president in 1933.  

Ted Jr. would return to active military service in April 1941.  Given the rank of Colonel, he was given command of his old unit, the 26th Regiment in the 1st Infantry Division.  He was promoted to Brigadier General later that year.  While serving in North Africa, Roosevelt gained a reputation of leading from the front. His antics frequently would have him at odds with his commanders; General (and Freemason) Omar Bradley and General George Patton. Due to his not adhering to military protocol, he would be relieved of command and assigned to a staff position. 

During the Italian campaign, Ted Jr. saw combat in Sicily and Sardinia.  He also served as Gen. Dwight D. Eisenhower's liaison to the French Army. He would petition Eisenhower for another combat command, and he would be in June 1944, part of Operation Neptune.  Operation Neptune was the naval component of the D-Day landings which would take place on the beaches of Normandy, France.  He requested three times to lead the first wave of the assault on Utah Beach before he would be granted permission to do so.  On June 6, 1944; in the pre-dawn hours, Ted Jr. would be one of the first men off the landing craft to assault Utah Beach.  Due to the tidal currents being so strong, the first twenty landing craft strayed two miles to the south of the expected objective.  Ted Jr. is said to have declared: "We'll start the war from right here!" upon landing and assessing the situation. 

Under a constant barrage of fire, he proceeded to lead his men across the beach, returning for the ensuing units. He greeted each newly arriving regiment, pointing them toward their changed objective.  It is said that his humor and confidence was encouraging; and that his presence was a calming influence on the troops.   When General Barton, the commanding general of the 4th Division came ashore, Ted Jr. greeted him and gave him a report of the combat situation. 

Barton would write:

"While I was mentally framing [orders], Ted Roosevelt came up. He had landed with the first wave, had put my troops across the beach, and had a perfect picture (just as Roosevelt had earlier promised if allowed to go ashore with the first wave) of the entire situation. I loved Ted. When I finally agreed to his landing with the first wave, I felt sure he would be killed. When I had bade him goodbye, I never expected to see him alive. You can imagine then the emotion with which I greeted him when he came out to meet me [near La Grande Dune]. He was bursting with information."

For his actions at Utah Beach, Roosevelt would be posthumously awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor. His citation reads:

For gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty on 6 June 1944, in France. After two verbal requests to accompany the leading assault elements in the Normandy invasion had been denied, Brig. Gen. Roosevelt's written request for this mission was approved and he landed with the first wave of the forces assaulting the enemy-held beaches. He repeatedly led groups from the beach, over the seawall, and established them inland. His valor, courage, and presence in the very front of the attack and his complete unconcern at being under heavy fire inspired the troops to heights of enthusiasm and self-sacrifice. Although the enemy had the beach under constant direct fire, Brig. Gen. Roosevelt moved from one locality to another, rallying men around him, directed, and personally led them against the enemy. Under his seasoned, precise, calm, and unfaltering leadership, assault troops reduced beach strongpoints and rapidly moved inland with minimum casualties. He thus contributed substantially to the successful establishment of the beachhead in France.

After the war, Omar Bradley was asked to name the single most heroic action he had ever seen in combat, to which he replied: "Ted Roosevelt on Utah Beach".  On July 12, 1944; Theodore Roosevelt Jr. died of a heart attack while serving in France.  Of his death, General Patton wrote: "Teddy R[oosevelt] died in his sleep last night. He had made three landings with the leading wave – such is fate... He was one of the bravest men I ever knew".  Roosevelt was initially buried at Sainte-Mère-Église, but later was moved to the American Cemetary at Normandy.

Theodore Roosevelt Jr. was raised to the sublime degree of Master Mason at Matinecock Lodge #806, Oyster Bay, NY in 1920.  

Why is it important for us to remember not only Ted; but all those who took part in Operation Overlord?  Because we must remember what they were fighting for, which were those four freedoms that were so eloquently presented by President (and Brother) Franklin Delano Roosevelt.  We must never forget the crimes against humanity that occurred under Fascism, and we must never allow Fascism to gain a foothold anywhere in the world, including our own country. As stated above:  Fascists oppose any initiatives or institutions that are racially, ethnically, or religiously harmonious.  One cannot support Fascism and Freemasonry.  The two philosophies are diametrically opposed.       

 

 
Theodore Roosevelt Jr. display at the WWII Museum

 

Theodore Roosevelt Jr. gravesite 

~DAL

Darin is a husband, father, and Freemason.  He also agrees with Jake and Elwood Blues.