bags that would later support the week ’ s charitable initiatives. The membership then traveled to Clark Field Cemetery to honor the memory of GIG Freddie L. Banks with a wreath-laying ceremony. GIG Timothy L. Graves provided a historical overview of the Bataan Death March, underscoring the sacrifice of the 72,000 – 78,000 American and Filipino soldiers forced into captivity during World War II. Midday activities focused on community uplift. In partnership with the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Washington and the Ancient Egyptian Arabic Order Nobles Mystic Shrine, Desert of the Far East and Asia, members distributed 100 food baskets to the indigenous Aeta community—an act that reinforced the FECOD ’ s commitment to service beyond the meeting rooms. The day ended with a visit to the Capas–Tarlac Shrine, the solemn endpoint of the 106-kilometer Bataan Death March. Local officials and the site curator shared the historical significance of the grounds, noting the staggering loss of life among Filipino and American prisoners of war. Celebration, Recognition, and Brotherhood The FECOD banquet highlighted the musical talents of several Knights of Pythagoras members, including performances of the U.S. National Anthem and other selections. Most Worshipful Grand Master Terrell Hicklin, Deputy of the Desert Eldridge “ Hank ” Hainesworth, and MICIC Bush presented a $500 charitable donation to Pastor Chris of Clark
Field Baptist Church, further strengthening ties with the local community. A series of distinguished awards followed:
Sovereign Grand Inspector General Charles H. Bush Jr., 33 o , Deputy
Major Honors
Commander-in-Chief of the Year: GIG Antonio Ray (103) Sublime Prince of the Year: Sublime Prince (SP) Nelson P. Apaniada (103) Consistory of the Year (2024): Keystone Consistory No. 85
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55th Annual Far East Council of Deliberation Strengthens Brotherhood, Honors History, and Expands Community Impact
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Annual Council of Deliberation Awards
Daniel R. Poole Excellence Award: GIG Marcus Mack Billy H. Hall Meritorious Service Award: GIG Terrell Hicklin Dwight R. Johnson Service Before Self Award: SGIG Gardner Torrence
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The Orient of the Far East convened its 55th Annual Far East Council of Deliberation (FECOD) on April 1, 2025, in the Valley of the Philippines, hosted by Joseph I. Staton Consistory No. 103. The Consistory formally opened the session and welcomed the Most Illustrious Commander-in-Chief (MCIC), Sovereign Grand Inspector General (SGIG) Charles H. Bush, Jr., marking the beginning of a week filled with purpose, fellowship, and service.
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The FECOD also proudly announced the 33rd Degree Class of 2027, welcoming Sublime Princes Charles Barbee (114), Mark Tyler (114), and Gary Morgan (111) into the ranks of future Honorary Grand Inspectors General.
A Week of Engagement and Service
Assistant to the Deputy, SGIG Ronald U. Muse, crafted a dynamic schedule that blended youth development, historical remembrance, and community outreach. The delegation began with a visit to the Knights of Pythagoras of John E. Peterson Council No. 5, where Illustrious Commander-in-Chief, and Grand Inspector General (GIG) Sylvester Cash continue to make a profound impact on local youth. The young men prepared over 100 food gift
A Council Marked by Purpose
The 55th Annual FECOD successfully blended tradition, education, service, and recognition. From honoring historical sacrifices to uplifting local communities and celebrating excellence within the Craft, the week reflected the enduring values of leadership, brotherhood, and service that define the Orient of the Far East.
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