The Official Organ of USC-DC
2024 First Edition
United Supreme Council Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite for the Thirty - Third and Last Degree of Freemasonry for the United States of America and Its Jurisdictions, Inc. Prince Hall Affiliated
Features: Sovereign Grand Commander Greetings USC - DC Scottish Rite Syllabus Prince Hall Juneteenth Celebration 2023 Taste of New Orleans 2023 Convention Medical Dept.
Illustrious Ralph Slaughter, Ph.D., CPA Sovereign Grand Commander Publisher
Editor in Chief: SGC Ralph Slaughter, Ph.D., CPA Chief Advisor: SGIG Walter R. Simmons, Jr. Co - Editor: GIG Carl M. Raymond, Jr. Staff Writer: SGIG Howard T. Matthews, Jr. Staff Writer: SGIG Dr. M. Shawn Fogle Staff Writer: GIG Treven Lagerman Staff Writer: GIG Gordon S. Brown, Sr. Staff Writer: GIG - Elect Derek Shackelford Staff Writer: HPSGRLLR Patsy A. Smith
USC - DC Veterans Breakfast USC - DC Session Highlights Red River COD Orient News USC - DC Interview Series SGIG George Blue, 33°
Photography: Submissions and stock images
The Informer is published at: 1835 7th Street, NW #153 Washington, DC 20001
DISCLAIMER: Articles, views, and/or opinions herein expressed do not necessarily reflect the opinion or carry the endorsement of the USC - DC or any Scottish Rite body within its Jurisdictions.
The Publisher and Editorial staff reserve the right to reject any material
Greetings!
I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to all who attended the Annual Session in New Orleans, LA this past December. We were very delighted to hold this past year ’ s event in my home state, and we look forward to hosting again in the future. Our time together was most agreeable and we are pleased that everyone returned to their homes safely. It is my distinct honor to represent over 2500 Fraters and more than 70 Consistories across the United States, Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. It is my pleasure to serve this great organization, and I thank you for your confidence in our efforts. We would also like to thank the Ladies of the Golden Circle for their support. It made our event all the more enjoyable and we appreciate them very much. Also, this year the United Supreme Council had the pleasure of hosting a joint memorial service and a joint banquet with the Golden Circle. Both events were first for Prince Hall affiliated Scottish Rite organizations. We pray that we continue these historic strides as we progress together toward a brighter future. This year is an election year, and many important positions will be on the ballots, to include President of the United States. Several vital issues that affect our communities will also be voted upon in federal, state, and local elections this Fall. Election Day is Tuesday, November 5, 2024, so make your voices heard! If you are not registered to vote, please do. Also, make sure you are aware important dates such as day that early voting occurs, deadline for mail - in ballot request, and local and state contest that occur before or after the federal election day. We will provide information related to voter registration throughout the year, and I pray that each and every one of our members exercise their civic duties. Two months before his untimely death, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. said on Feb. 4, 1968, “ Everybody can be great, because anybody can serve. ” As we commemorated Black History Month, let us remember our fellow man and those we seek to serve in our respective communities. Prince Hall Freemasonry has a historic commitment to service and has inspired people across the globe to work together to make positive change. It does not have to be great or large endeavors, discreet and thoughtful gestures by several individuals often yield similar or greater results when applied at the right place and time. We are the representatives of and
inspirations to our communities. If we do not take care of them, no one else will. Please enjoy our publication and may God bless and keep you until we meet again!
Fraternally ,
Ralph Slaughter, Ph.D., CPA Sovereign Grand Commander
Last year, at the 2022 Annual Session for United Supreme Council Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite for the Thirty - Third and Last Degree of Freemasonry for the United States of America and Its Jurisdictions, Inc. Prince Hall Affiliated, the new ritual of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite (A.A.S.R.) was introduced in order to standardize the work throughout the Jurisdiction. In the 2023 Annual Session, the United Supreme Council Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite for the Thirty - Third and Last Degree of Freemasonry for the United States of America and Its Jurisdictions, Inc. Prince Hall Affiliated debuted the Official Scottish Rite Syllabus, bringing full color and clarity to the aforementioned ritual set. Fraters agree, this edition is indeed a welcomed addition, complementing the updated ritual, beautifully. And perhaps most impressively, this indispensable companion comes complete with color chamber diagrams, proper special ceremonies guidance, and even protocols. Equipped with everything needed, pre advancement, this summary eliminates any ambiguity of past offerings. It is a must have for every member committed to delivering the highest standard of degree work.
Well done Syllabus Committee!
In Honor of Juneteenth
This year marks the 159th year since en- slaved Africans in Galveston, Texas, finally re- ceived word from the local Union Army com- mander. It was a pivotal moment in American history that signaled slavery's end. This news came nearly two and a half years after President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proc-
The Prince Hall Masons are one of Ameri- ca's oldest civil rights organizations. As our illus- trious founder advocated for equal rights for Afri- can Americans and inspired several generations of black people to follow in his footsteps, we must be willing to continue these efforts in the face of great hardship. These standards are em-
lamation. It demon- strated the profound delays and struggles in fighting for free- dom and justice. The United Su- preme Council - DC successfully held its annual Juneteenth cel- ebration at the Wash- ington National Ca-
bedded in our organizational structure as Scottish Rite Masons. We acknowledge our core tenets: reverence to God, devotion, integrity, jus- tice, equality, and service to
thedral with the unwavering support of the Order of the Golden Circle. We are grateful for all the support and dedication of everyone who attended and supported the event. Our sincere thanks go out to everyone who made this celebration so memorable. Our beloved organization was able to honor black contributions, pay respects at the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. memorial, and remember the sacrifices of our predecessors thanks to the support of our Auxiliary, the Order of the Golden Circle.
humanity. As members of the United Supreme Council - DC, Order of the Golden Circle, and Freemasonry, we must embody these values and practice them daily. While we continue to service our respec- tive legacies with honor and grace, the Sovereign Grand Commander and the Grand Loyal Lady remain shining examples, leading us toward even greater progress. Additionally, we must affirm the critical work of protecting all Americans' rights
and freedoms. Within our collective roles as members of the USC - DC and Golden Circle, we must encourage everyone to serve as community activists and organizers, supporting our respec- tive communities with fairness and integrity and upholding the ideals of equality, equity, and jus- tice for all.
Written by: SP Derek Shackleford, 32 ° , Staff Writer
T he best and tastiest of traditional New Orleans fare was prepared by none other than Eureka Consistory No. 7, and served up by the most gracious Loyal La- dies of the Order of the Golden Circle. This fine spread included all the seafood and trimmings that more than 200 members, who filled the several chartered bus- es could indulge in. The Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Louisiana and its Jurisdiction, offered a glimpse of the sprawling property, currently under extensive renova- tions, preparing to house the sizable District No. 1. Sovereign Grand Commander Ralph Slaughter spoke on the significance of this historical site. Property Manager, GIG Abraham Johnson, conducted tours of the grounds, while SGIG Keith Swanier discussed the acquisition and future plans at length. Food, music, fellowship and fun is so New Orleans, especially on a Friday afternoon. A good time was had by all, and the Orient of Louisiana were great hosts.
Written by: SGIG Dr. M. Shawn Fogle, 33 ° , Staff Writer
Greetings fraters! It is quite the honor to serve as the United Supreme Council ’ s Director of Military and Veterans Affairs Committee. One of the committee ’ s goals is to honor and highlight the service of those who have answered the nation ’ s call, as well as provide valuable information about Veterans Administration benefits and legislation impacting veterans. Less than 1% of all Americans will ever answer the call to wear the fabric of this nation and accept the unlimited liability clause in defense of her freedom. For those who answered that call, we thank you and are eternally grateful for your service.
This organization is steeped in military tradition since its inception, and many of our ceremo- nies have military origins. Brothers of this Council have served and continue to serve in every seg- ment of the military, some even representing the highest levels of military leadership. We have served on every continent and in every conflict with dignity and courage. For this year ’ s session, the committee petitioned the Sovereign Grand Commander for his blessing to host a special event for our military members and received enthusiastic support to hold the first ever “ Heroes Breakfast ” at the session. He could not have been more emphatic with his “ yes ”, and he challenged us to make this an enduring part of our annual planning.
On Friday morning at 7:30 A.M., approximately 45 - 50 active and former military brothers from five of our six military branches made their way to the restaurant in the hotel to kick off the Heroes Breakfast. Members of the Military & Veterans Affairs Committee were on hand to greet brothers and assist them with getting settled in. The committee director, Illustrious Dr. M. Shawn Fogle opened up the breakfast by thanking everyone for attending the inaugural event and enthusiastically welcoming our invited guest speaker, Ms. Julie Baxter Payer, Deputy Secretary for the Louisiana
Department of Veterans Affairs and her Deputy Assistant Secretary and fellow Prince Hall Mason, Brother Earnest Buckner. Special thanks to SGIG Richard Adams for coordinating with Deputy Secretary Baxter Payer ’ s office to secure their attendance at the breakfast. During her highly - informative briefing and Q&A session, she spoke to attendees about the different programs and
benefits that are available to veterans, and she also passed out literature outlining the different bene- fits that were available. She also touched on the housing, medical, dental benefits that are available at the state and federal level to veterans. At the end of her session, Mr. Buckner took more questions from the audience and provided much - needed clarification on the PACT Act. Committee Chair Fogle presented the Deputy Secretary with a certificate of appreciation from Sovereign Grand Commander Slaughter. She then
presented him with a coin from the State of Louisiana Secretary of Veterans Affairs. As the morning moved on, Brothers continued to swap old war stories and reconnect over breakfast. The Chairman and his staff provided several VA updates about compensation and legislation.
Some of the updates provided are as follows:
2024 VA Compensation Increase 3.2% increase effective December 1, 2023 (January 1, 2024 check) Social security increase will be the same.
Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act Benefits Update Deadline to file an “ intent to file ” claim for PACT Act benefits was August 14, 2023 Applies to those wishing to have their benefits backdated a year to when bill was signed. Veterans can still sign up for PACT Act benefits, they just won ’ t get the back pay.
Latest Legislative Actions & Efforts H.R. 1530, as amended – Veterans Benefits Improvement Act of 2023
The bill updates procedures related to the publishing of VA disability benefit questionnaire forms. Specifically, the VA does not have to publish certain forms if it determines the form could not reasonably be completed to a clinically acceptable standard by someone who is not an employee or contractor of the VA. The bill also requires the VA to report on its efforts to provide reimbursement for a veteran's travel to a facility, regardless of whether the facility is inside or outside of the United States, when such travel is incident to a medical disability ex-
amination for purposes of VA benefits.
Electronic Health Record Modernization – Commitment to Improving VA ’ s Record- keeping Platform Highlights the VA ’ s efforts to continue modernizing its information systems to make them more in- teroperable with other care systems and aid in the exchange of information between VA, its Com- munity Care Network and with veterans, which is critical to successfully developing an integrated health care network. Minority Veterans Staff Increase – Initiative to hire more minorities in positions within the VA Identify common factors and biases that contribute to health inequities and disparate health outcomes for minority veterans, and develop educational tools and training protocols to ensure equitable, high - quality care for all veterans. The VA is investigating methods for increasing diversity among its staff, i.e. Blacks make up 4% vs. 12% for White employees. Many laudatory comments were made by brothers in attendance about the event. GIG Pierre Boynton, currently serving in the United States Army at Fort Polk, said that he thought it was a great idea that the Supreme Council would plan an event of this magnitude, and that it made him feel hon- ored to serve in the military, and be a Scottish Rite Mason in USC - DC. As we brought the event to a close, everyone said that they could not wait for us to get together at the next United Supreme Coun- cil session, and hoped that there would be even more in attendance to share in the camaraderie.
Written by: SGIG Dr. M. Shawn Fogle, 33 ° , Staff Writer
Many of you may have noticed some changes in the health and safety protocol, as well as the addition of on - site medical ser- vices at this year ’ s session. For the first time ever, this United Supreme Council stood up a first - class medical services team dedicated to taking care of the basic needs of our members, as well as providing other preventative care to at- tendees. This
First Class. He has also served as a medic in a myriad of positions to include flight and chemical operations, SWAT, as well as the NASCAR Cup Series. SGIG Riddick and his team provided top - quality, on - site medical support through- out the session. The following services were provided dur- ing the ses- sion:
COVID - 19 Education & Prevention Daily Temper- ature Checks Blood Glu- cose & Pres- sure Testing Services Dispense Non - prescription
team was led by none other than our very own newly - minted Sovereign Grand Inspector General Arland- er Riddick. He and his impres- sive team com-
Medicine Emergency Medical Treatment
prised of SGIG Dr. Jeffrey Knight and GIG Dr. John Bailey, both board - certified dentists, worked tirelessly to take excellent care of all our session attendees. We had a chance to sit down and chat with SGIG Riddick, and he was so excited to talk about his opportunity to serve the United Supreme Council after many years of doing the same for other Masonic or- ganizations. His past experience includes dec- ades of service as a medic in the United States Army, where he achieved the rank of Sergeant
With many of our members getting up in age, it has always been a goal of Sovereign Grand Commander Slaughter to have a medi- cal team in place to make sure we are looking out for our Brothers and Sisters during our an- nual session. It is no secret that our gatherings have always been viewed as a reunion of sorts, one where the days run deep into the night. This means that we must stay vigilant
The team was also prepared to made arrange- ments for anyone who may have left their pre- scription medications at home, and needed emergency refills. They established contacts and working relationships with local healthcare facilities to ensure they were able to provide additional care for any situations that required an advanced level of care, and we are happy to report that these services were not needed during this year ’ s session. As we look forward to 2024 and be- yond, the medical department continues to look for ways to serve the members and their families. They are hard at work planning for the session already, and will be looking for ways to keep us educated and dedicated to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Some of the future goals of the medical department, to name a few, include: • Provide Health Awareness Briefings and Workshops • Provide Safety Awareness Bulletins
that our vitals are good and take every precau- tion available to protect one another. SGIG Riddick ’ s team went above and beyond to en- sure that everyone had a great time and was able to return to their loved ones after session. Every morning started off with a 100% tem- perature check and overall health screening. They also ensured that attendees were remind- ed that COVID - 19 is still a threat to us, and completed preventative decontamination of most of the common areas before the first ses- sion - goer arrived for the day. Those who were not feeling well or experiencing elevated tem- peratures were immediately assessed for fur- ther treatment options or isolation to avoid our session becoming a super - spreader event.
Provide Diet and Nutrition Tips
•
• Drive Continued Focus on Great Patient Care
Leadership expert Robin Sharma once said, "good health is a crown on the head of a well person, that only a sick person can see." We often do not see the value of good health until an illness forces us to take notice. We should not take our health for granted because we all know of a situation where someone was not well from one day to the next. Every year we remember those amongst our fraternity who lost their bout with some disease or illness. We owe it to our families, as well as ourselves to make as many healthy choices as we can.
The activation of our medical team is definitely a step in the right direction, and it shows the Supreme Council ’ s steadfast dedication to keeping us safe and healthy. The team ’ s commit- ment to making our session a happy session and healthy session was instrumental in its suc- cess. Be sure to give them a word of gratitude and encouragement when you see them!
O n December 7 - 10, 2023, the United Supreme Council Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite for the United States of America and its Jurisdiction (USC - DC) & Order of the Golden Circle convened for its 2023 Annual Session at the Hyatt Regency New Orleans, 601 Loyola Ave, New Orleans, LA. Every event was in sync from on - site registration on the first day to the after - action review meeting held on the last. We appreciate our hosts for putting together a first - class event that showcased the very best of our Order.
Registration
The Annual Session began Thursday, December 7, 2023. Advanced and onsite registration ser- vices were on site and were hosted by our wonderful staff each day of the event. The registration staff provided support to more than 500 attendees throughout the event, which included issuing identification badges, welcome packets, and providing the schedule of events. We would like to extend our gratitude and thanks to our volunteers and congratulate them on a job well done! Thursday The first day of the Annual Session is typically administrative, but this year it was so much more. The day began in earnest with the Elected Officers meeting, the 2023 GIG Class Orientation, and the Deputies Meeting. However, it also included Lodge Helper Certification and training. The most significant event that occurred on the first day of the Annual Session was the Memorial Ser- vice held that evening. Memorial Service
The USC - DC held its memorial service for active and active Emeritus members who passed in 2023. During the memorial service, both the personal and Masonic records of each deceased
member ’ s life were reflected upon and served as a final tribute to their memory. Additionally, the Ladies memorialized those of the Order of the Golden Circle who passed away in 2023. From the entrance to the musical selections and recitations, attendees would have never known this was the first time this event was held as a joint session, as it was very well coordi- nated and synchronized. Unquestionable high praise is deserved for those responsible for the planning and execution of these events. “ When a man has done what he considers to be his duty to his people and his country, he can rest in peace. ” –Bro. Nelson Mandela
Friday
Morning Devotion One of the first great cares of Masons before any undertakings, when convened, is to seek the aid of Deity, and the 2023 USC - DC Annual Session was no different. By communicating with the Grand Architect of the Universe as we were assembled, we coordinated our minds so that
we could perform God ’ s will during the session and accomplish the goals set forth by our Sovereign Grand Commander. Morning devotion was held each morning before embarking on the organization ’ s daily agenda, with several of our Fraters ministering to those who at- tended.
Military Veterans Affairs Breakfast
Facilitated by SGIG Dr. M. Shawn Fogle and GIG Dr. Bruce B. Brown, the Military Veterans Affairs breakfast was an informative program with an excellent breakfast. Please see page xx for additional details.
Advancements, Consecrations, and Coronations Friday was chalked full of Scottish Rite work in which SGIG Nicholas Padilla, Jr. facilitated the advancement of seven (7) Sublime Princes of the Royal Secret; SGIG Ray S. Pack, Sr. fa- cilitated the consecration of three (3) Consistories; and SGIG Dr. A.K. Wilkins facilitated the coronation of 28 Sovereign Grand Inspector Generals. The Michael A. Parris Class of 2023 is our newly minted Grand Inspectors General (GIG). Their weekend began with an orientation briefing, a discussion related to their class name, and a short period of instruction. The class consisted of 79 members, and we congratulate them on this historic achievement! Special congratulations to the president of the Michael A. Parris Class of 2023, GIG Abraham Johnson (Orient of Louisiana). We would also like to extend congratulations to the Illustrious Sirs who became Sovereign Grand Inspector Generals in 2023! Especially to the fraters who are the Informer ’ s publica- tion staff!
“ A
Taste of Louisiana ” hosted by the Orient of Louisiana
Louisiana is known for its food, culture, and hospitality. With New Orleans being the host city to the 2023 USC - DC Annual Session, it is only fitting that we give our beloved readers “ A Taste of Louisiana. ” Please see page xx for additional details.
Class Reunions & Social
Following the Memorial service, the Grand Inspectors General of all grades who were elevat- ed in years with the last numeral being 1, 4, 7, or 0 held their class meetings or reunions dur- ing the evening social. Fraters shared laughs with their classmates and other members were also invited to attend.
Saturday
General Session & Elevation
Just as the previous day, the formal events of Saturday, December 10, 2023, began with morn- ing devotion and 2023 GIG class activities. General Session followed at 8:00 a.m. and the opening ceremonies were presided over by our Illustrious Sovereign Grand Commander, Dr. Ralph Slaughter. After the opening was complete, SGC Slaughter handed the gavel of authori- ty to the Orient of Hawaii degree team. They conferred the 33rd Degree upon the Michael A. Parris Class of 2023 and were most impressive in their ritualistic performance. The degree team did an outstanding job and was acknowledged and congratulated by the Sovereign Grand Commander himself.
Several masonic dignitaries were in attendance including SGIG Meyers (45th Imperial Poten- tate, AEAONMS), SGIG John T. Chapman (44th Imperial Potentate, AEAONMS) SGIG Ab- dullah Omar Mustapha - Thomas (Grand Master of the MWPHGL of Alaska; New Orleans, LA native), SGIG B. Patrice Adjibi (Grand Master of the MWPHGL of France), and SGIG Daniel L. "DT" Thompson (Grand Master, MWPHGL of North Carolina). SGC Slaughter addressed the assembly following the conferring of the 33rd degree upon the 2023 GIG class and outlined his vision for this upcoming year. He also provided year - in - review actions and events from the previous 2023 Annual Session including the publication and availability of the ritual and syllabus.
Luncheon
The midday break during the session was one of fellowship and breaking of bread. After the luncheon the 2023 GIG class completed its administrative duties and prepared for evening events.
Banquet
Another illustrious milestone occurred in this year ’ s banquet. It was the first time that Scot- tish Rite Masons hosted a joint banquet in conjunction with the Loyal Ladies. In years past, the ladies were always in attendance and supported the event. This year was the first time they functioned as co - hosts. Congratulations to SGC Ralph Slaughter and LLR Faye Williams for moving our organizations forward in a spirit of comradery and togetherness. The banquet is the premiere social event of the Annual Session and the atmosphere was amaz- ing. SGIG Alvin K. Wilkins, III, Lieutenant Grand Commander, served as the master of cere- mony for the evening. The guest speakers included the visiting dignitaries SGIG Meyers (45th Imperial Potentate, AEAONMS), SGIG Chapman (44th Imperial Potentate, AEAONMS) SGIG Mustapha - Thomas (Grand Master of the MWPHGL of Alaska), SGIG Adjibi (Grand Master of the MWPHGL of France), SGIG Thompson (Grand Master, MWPHGL of North Carolina, and SGIG Morgan, (RW Deputy Grand Master from the MWPHGL of Virginia). The President of the Michael A. Parris Class of 2023 presented a monetary donation of nearly $10,000 to the USC - DC.
I n April of 2024, the Inaugural Red River Council of Deliberation under the auspices of the United Supreme Council DC for the Thirty - Third and Last Degree of Freemasonry for the United States of America and its Jurisdictions Inc. Prince Hall Affiliated was held in Dallas Texas.
HPSGLLR Shirley Cooley from United Assembly No. 1 received the Lifetime Achievement Award from President Joseph R. Biden Jr. Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award
Dunbar Senior High Scholarship
Continuing our relationship and commitment to the Scholarships of high school students, the Orient of D.C was able to give (3), $500.00 scholarships to the students of Dunbar Senior High JROTC Program.
District of Columbia Community Outreach
2024 Re - lighting of the Lights
Pelican Council of Deliberation
Pelican Council of Deliberation
O n May 6, 2023, at 8:00 am PST, the members of the Public Relations Department were afforded the privilege to spend time talking to Sovereign Grand Inspector General George Blue, a legend in our Order with over 50 years as a Scottish Rite Mason. SGIG Blue blessed the Order by discussing his story—his background, career, critical aspects of his personal and professional life, and his masonic journey. The dis- cussion below is an abbreviated version of the interview of SGIG Blue.
SGIG Matthews : All right sir, good afternoon. SGIG Blue: Good afternoon.
SGIG Matthews : It is indeed an honor to be able to sit here and talk with you, especially as we've talked about before. How you had such a fascinating journey as a man but significantly as a Mason and how you've contributed to our communities, our society. And of course, I thank you for your service in the mil- itary as well. If you could, let's start with some basic information about who you are, where you grew up
and so forth. Please state your full name and your age. SGIG Blue: I am George Blue, and I am 87 years old. SGIG Matthews : And where are you from?
SGIG Blue: I was born in 1936 at McKeesport Hospital and raised in Duquesne, Pennsylvania. SGIG Matthews : So, when you say you were raised there, I assume you spent all your formative years there in school and everything as well. SGIG Blue: Yes. SGIG Matthews : What's your earliest memory from your childhood? SGIG Blue : It goes back beyond age 6. I had vivid memory from age 6 and beyond. Only periodic flash- backs of anything earlier. SGIG Matthews : I ask that because you mentioned the year 1936 and for me as an Army guy, I always associate the early 1940s with World War II. Do you have any recollection of time or the people from that period? SGIG Blue : Yes, I remember a few things from that period, I was around 6 years old. I can remember playing with my older who passed away in 1943. Back then we lived in a steel mill town, which was about 13 miles outside Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (PA). Duquesne is the name of the town where I was raised. I remember my family moving to one of the brand - new projects that was opened by the government. In my hometown area, there were three of them. We moved in ‘42 to housing area called West Mifflin, which I recently visited in 2018 with my children. The projects are still a viable place in the community, and it was basically a suburb of Duquesne. We moved from what was called “ below the tracks. ” Below the tracks was an area beyond the steel mill owned by Carnegie at the time and later it was bought out by U.S. Steel. We had to move because Carnegie bought all the property below the tracks that consisted of mostly family apartments. We lived in public housing for a short time, but my father had to move closer to the steel mill where he worked because he walked their daily. And from the housing projects the walk was horrendous in the winter. He moved us to an apartment next to his brother and rent was $20 for several years. I remember the $20 twenty dollars because I was sent the pay the rent once. While on the way to pay the rent, I stopped at Mrs. Benson ’ s grocery store and bought some candy. I then went the landlord ’ s house to pay him, I didn't have the $20. So, I backtracked to the store, and I checked the paper that I had unwrapped the candy from and had thrown in the trash. The candy paper was there and so was the $20. Luckily, I hadn ’ t opened the stove and put the paper inside. I was more afraid of what was going to hap- pen to me if I couldn't find that $20, I was very fortunate to have found it. We lived in that place for all my formative years.
SGIG Matthews : That is fascinating. One thing I noticed you mentioned that your brother recently turned 80 was born in 1942. But you also mentioned earlier about a brother who passed away. Did both events happen in the same year? SGIG Blue: No, no, no. My brother who died in 1943 was named Robert Lee and my brother who re- cently turned 80 was born the year before in 1942, and his name is Cardale. Robert Lee died from blood poisoning. I remember waiting for our family members to come from the hospital to let us know how the situation was and they told me that he [Robert Lee] had passed away. My brother had gotten a splinter while he was playing and he was with my grandparents and they had put something on the wound that they thought to draw out any problems, but unfortunately it didn't work. He was hospitalized at McKeesport Hospital, and he passed away shortly thereafter from blood poisoning. He was a few years older than me and was born in June of 1934. Me and my siblings were born in ‘34, ’36, ‘37, then ‘42 respectively. My baby brother is always happy that I had another birth- day because somehow, he figures that as long as I am here, he will stay around as well. I don't under- stand his logic on that. So, some of the earliest times I can remember, my youngest brother used to get us in trouble all the time. I remember having to wash and change his diapers and I was only 6 years older than him. Brother next to me, somehow, we always wound up have getting in some kind of trouble. Growing up we must have been some real bad kids because I can remember the whuppings my mother used to put it on me for different things. So anyhow, it was interesting, and we grew up learning, especially from my mother that you could do pretty much anything in this life that you thought you were capable of doing and that education wasn't stressed as much as getting out of high school. I had an opportunity to go to Wilberforce, and my grades were so bad they offered me a hundred - dollar scholarship. And when I was growing up, I didn't realize Wilberforce was the Methodist school and my boy scout leader was the Methodist minister in my hometown, and he later went on to become an administrator at Wilberforce in Ohio (OH). So, one of my teachers, when I was about to graduate, I had to go and clean out my desk and I went in my homeroom teacher and she asked George, “ How you doing? How's things going so forth and so on ”, I said “ Well, I had, I got one problem. ” She said, “ What is that? ” I said, “ Well, I can graduate but I only got one course that I'm worried about. ” As it turns out, it was her course, bookkeep- ing. I deserved 0. I deserved a 0. For the grade you had to have a grade point to pass of an average of 74 on the report card reporting periods. I forget how many of there were, 4 or 6 or something like that. And so, I told her about bookkeeping. And she says, ‘ Well, Okay. What kind of grade do you need? I said, I need a 60 Now give me an average of 70 and I don't deserve the 60. Well, she never said any more about it, on the night of graduation, they brought you up to the stage and hand you this little red folder. My mother and grandmother were waiting on me to bring my diploma. And I said, well, I wouldn't even sneak a look to see if it was in the folder because they give you a blank sheet of paper if you didn't graduate. Well, I went and got the darn thing, and we were all dis- missed. So, I went out of the auditorium, where my mother was standing and waiting, and my grand- mother was also there waiting, and I had to open the folder and sure enough the diploma was in there. When I got my report card, she gave me a 60, exactly the score I needed to graduate, and I didn't de- serve it. I did deserve zero, but it taught me something that my mother had brought us up on and that is to always do the best you can. learn how to read and write, and to be a person that does not goes around with a frown on his face, but a smile on his face. I brought my kids up like that. And so, I haven't lost not one night's sleep because my kids had to call me and say, come get me out of jail. I'm broke down somewhere, I need help. All right, just been truly blessed. And speaking of kids, I have two, a boy and a girl. And I'm on my second marriage. And my wife has a boy and a girl. Her boy lives here near us. My boy lives about 25 - 30 miles from me and my daughter also. Her daughter lives in Los Angeles and all four are in their 60s. The youngest one—her son—is 59 but he'll be 60 in November 2023, I believe. My son just turned 60, this past February and my daughter in July will turn 64. So, somebody's getting old.
SGIG Matthews: No, I think that's wiser, or sweeter, or kinder. All those things, more blessed that's for sure. Your wife is she from where? SGIG Blue: Toledo, OH. SGIG Matthews : Oh okay. So, you started off in Pennsylvania. But how did you end up with your wife from Ohio and you are now in California (CA)? SGIG Blue: Well, my first wife was from Middletown, Pennsylvania. I was stationed at Olmstead Air Force Base. I arrived there in January 1958 and we got married in 1959 and then we separated in 1984. I remarried in 1987 and I met her through Prince Hall Masonry. I was on a local committee when the 1984 or 1985 Grand Session (Annual Conference) of Prince Hall Mason's took place in Sacramento, CA. She was serving in the nurse ’ s unit. And then, you know, she learned that I was from Pennsylva- nia, and she was from Ohio and that's how we basically met. SGIG Matthews: Alright, that's a lot of good info right there. So, I think that kind of sets up some of the foundation we will touch on as I ask you to reflect on some of the people, you grew up around and how they in- fluenced your life. But let's first talk about the mili- tary. After you graduated from high school you went directly into the military? SGIG Blue: Yes. But prior to going into the military, I joined the Air Force Reserves in 1954 in Pittsburgh, PA. The reason I joined be- cause I had learned that you could make some money by being in the Reserves, and since I had no intentions of going to college and I didn't want to go to work in the steel mill I joined the Reserves. I then went on ac- tive duty a year later in 1955 and stayed until I retired. I did two weeks of Basic Training in the Air Force Reserves in Dover, Delaware. Doing those two weeks of training shorten the time that I had to be on duty to get 20 years to retire in 1975. They counted those two weeks that I did in basic training, in the Air Force Reserves, along with my other active - duty service, and it gave me 20 years and two days. When I started my career in the Air Force, I did not think I would stay until I was eligible to retire. However, I did discuss joining the Air Force in my high school yearbook. So, I always knew I wanted to serve. I went to an integrated high school and in my class, I think it was three hundred students and about 30 of us were black. SGIG Matthews : Oh, that's interesting that you had that kind of an experience before the Civil Rights Act. And so that kind of takes me to what was that impact? Like in your neighborhood, if you were able to have that kind of a high school experience, how did the Civil Rights Movement influence the area where you grew up? Because by the 1960’ s, you were in the military. SGIG Blue : And I was overseas when the Civil Rights Act and the death of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. occurred. It didn't impact me like it did people who are back here in the United States. In my hometown there was segregation, places that we didn't go or weren ’ t allowed to go, but we part of the reason why
they broke down some of those barriers. I recall that there was a was a public park with rides, roller coasters, and the whole enchilada near where I lived. It also had a swimming pool that blacks were not allowed to go into, but community got it to the point where we could go in that pool. But still the peo- ple who owned Kennywood Park didn't want to abide by the law. Eventually a compromise was made, and the swimming pool was replaced with a water system that had boat rides. On one of my recent trips back home most of these facilities no longer in exist. After the steel mill shut down in the late 1980’ sthe town almost dried up. But my original hometown was a better setting than North Carolina, which I got an opportunity to find out about in 1949. SGIG Matthews : All right, so let's move on to your time with the Air Force, and how you enlisted. And then more importantly, how you made your connection to Masonry. SGIG Blue: I enlisted on June 14th, 1955, and basically, wound up in a career field, that was MOS or AFS seed. It was a dual situation. And it started off with acres if you have ever heard of the air traffic control crew. There are squadrons up air traffic control. They used to call it “ acres of chicken shit. ” That's what they used to call AACS was the name on the outfit. Well as you can probably figure out, I was an AACS, which is a teletype operator and my first assignment was Inazuki Air Force Base in Japan, after I went to school and Cheyenne, Wyoming. I was in Japan from December ‘55 to December ‘57. I then moved on to Homestead Air Force Base, PA, another AACS outfit. Comms started to change around this time and AACS was no longer main- stream of communicating. We worked with air weather observers and forecasters. We were a communi- cations backup and we coordinated with similar units throughout the country or state where we were assigned. My next assignment after Pennsylvania was Incirlik, Turkey and I was assigned to the headquarters of- fice as a clerk. I was there for 18 months alone while my family remained in Middletown, PA. When I left Turkey, my next assignment was the Lockheed Installation in Sunnyvale, CA. This is when my ca- reer field changed again where I used R291 for communications, and that skillset put me in cryptog- raphy. Soon after, I went to my next assignment which was Wiesbaden, Germany in 1967. I was assigned to APO whatever and nobody knew where I was going to be assigned until finally, they kept digging and they found out I was going to be assigned to the Base Head Quarters there in Vietnam. And I said, “ Well, how in the world I get an assignment, the Vietnam I asked for Panama and Puerto Rico? ” I went to the personnel office, and they dug into the regulations, and it said that I could request an as- signment to Panama or Puerto Rico because I wasn't entitled to go on consecutive overseas tours. I asked them why I was allowed to submit the request if it wasn ’ t allowed? ” They had no answers for that. I was going to appeal the Vietnam assignment but then I got to thinking and said that I might as well get it over with because I would likely deploy their eventually. So, I went to Vietnam from Janu- ary 1968 to January 19’69. However, when the Tet offense happened, I wished that I had appealed the assignment! We got through it, but it was something! My next assignment was Omaha, NE in the Strategic Air Command HQ. At the time, we were prom- ised that after leaving Vietnam we would get our assignment of choice. That worked for most folks, but since I had an occupational specialty, I didn't get my assignment of choice. I was in Omaha for nine months and was constantly on the phone with the Security Service Command asking them to get me another assignment since their unit was the biggest operation that could use my job skills. They eventu- ally offered me Alaska or Berlin, Germany. I consulted with my wife, and we chose Berlin. I stayed in Berlin until 1973 and my final assignment in the Air Force was McClellan Air Force Base, CA. On that assignment I did not work in my AFSC directly, it was more of an administrative role in security, be- cause I was a senior person at that point of my career. I was the 2049th Communication Squadron
NCOIC for security for almost two year and retired soon after. After retirement from the Air Force, I started working toward what would be my second career. In 1975 I enrolled in Community College with the objective of burning through my G.I. Bill without an identi- fied degree goal. Later that year, I went home to help my brother with my father ’ s living situation. My father was diagnosed with Alzheimer, and we needed set his affairs in order which required power of attorney and placement of my father in a nursing home. He lasted about 6 months and then he passed away. Which was sad because he was only two years removed from retiring from the steel mill. He had hardly been sick a day in his life, and his decline and death happened in a few short months. SGIG Matthews : That's always a hard trip when you must visit your loved ones right before their death. SGIG Blue : Yes. What I remember from around those times is one of the Potentates from Aswan Tem- ple contacted me. He is the only one that ever to my knowledge came out of Berlin. He was stationed in Berlin while he was Potentate of Aswan Temple #115. His name was Steven Starks. On my way back to Pennsylvania, I had caught a hop from CA and while I was in DC he made contact. And he asked me some questions about whether I was receiving disability and whether I was using my GI Bill. He also explained to me that I was eligible for vocational rehab. That program allowed me to get paid while I was in college. Because of his advice, I went on and graduated from college in 1977. I started working for the Department of Education in CA as educational program analyst, through some of my college contacts. The position required passing a state exam and the program did include learning opportunities for veterans. And I was part of that initiative until I retired the second time in 1998. SGIG Matthews : What about your journey as a Mason? SGIG Blue: My journey as Mason began in Berlin. The insight that I got there about the guys who were Masons was interesting. I knew a lot of them but didn't know they were Masons. The Masons had a Black and White Ball every year and it was one of the nicest things that was happening in Berlin. Their community work made me forget about some of the bad experiences I had in Wiesbaden in rela- tion to the Air Force and it allowed me to gravitate towards the social aspects of the organization in Berlin. I started off being interviewed and at the same time, my wife was interviewed. Some organiza- tions, some jurisdictions still used that approach today. This allowed the organization to get family in- put on your decision to become a Prince Hall Mason. This preempted any household conflict before it could start, which is a pretty good plan. That was my introduction to Masonry, and I had only been a Mason for a short time before I relocated to CA. Most of my Masonic background is here in Sacramen- to, 48 years total. Soon after I became a Master Mason, I had an opportunity to go to Africa to get my 32nd degree in 1971. When I heard about it, I was putting my money up because I heard you needed $500 to get ad- vanced. Turns out having the $500 wasn ’ t the problem. They turned me down and cited lack of experi- ence in Masonry as the problem. So, I didn ’ t go to Africa, and I kept on studying and training for the next opportunity. I was on my Lodge ’ s degree team that was designed to help other newly made En- tered Apprentices and Fellowcrafts as they came through and we ’ d meet up to study before or after work. So, I left Berlin as a Master Mason in 1973 and I joined my current Lodge after I went through a lot of hassle getting my paperwork so I could demit. In December of 1974 I became a member of David D. Mattock Lodge #87. It is one of the three Lodges here in Sacramento that I visited. Two of them had about 100 members each and the Lodge that I joined had 33 members on the roll at the time and they were about to take the Charter due to limited community activity. That has since change and my Lodge is currently the strongest Lodge of the three in the city today. Our members are engaged, and growth remains steady. We do have a lot of military people, so transition is a factor, but we ’ ve also had mem- bers pass away. Our current Worshipful Master is Bro. Mark Smith, and he is in his third year as Mas- ter.
I joined David D. Mattock (87) after arriving here because they needed help. I reached out to brothers that I knew in Europe and that's how we started building our Lodge up financially, and by do- ing things in the community. We remained one of the most respected Lodges up and down the jurisdic- tion. The Past Grand Lecturer was a member of our Lodge, and he was elected Grand Master (CA) be- fore me. We also had a Past Grand Master out of Alaska as a member of our Lodge. I was Senior Dea- con when PGM Martin Tennyson was a member as well. Unfortunately, they are all deceased, but good men and they are the most influential men in my life. Another influential person that I didn ’ t mention was Howard Woods out of Arkansas, I don't know if you ever heard that name before. Some old - timers like me who remember him. He was the third Past Grand Master that I knew was made Emeritus. In other words, they don't lose the title of “ Most Worshipful ” when referenced. Daniels out of Maryland was given the title Emeritus and so was Brother Foster out of North Carolina. In the California jurisdiction, PGM Harold D. Mural had head for history, I used to call him the “ Praying Grand Master. ” Needless to say, I have met a number of brothers over the years that have rose to senior positions in Masonry and some of them have been my Kappa Brothers. I am glad I was able to witness and contribute to their success. SGIG Matthews : Can you tell us a bit more about that structure of the or- ganizations that you were a member of? Like, do you re- member any of the leaders from your Lodge in Berlin? SGIG Blue : Steve Starks would be one and was here in Sacramento at one point. He my Wor- shipful Master when I left Berlin, but he has not been active in Masonry for a few years. We were both part of the same outfit in Berlin. Steve Starks was very influential in my Masonic journey and in my personal life. Mat- ter of fact we went for the same job at in Berlin, which he eventually got. When they first started “ race rela- tions ” in the mili- tary or whatever that they used to refer to it as back then; we would have an officer and a noncommissioned officer (NCO) that dealt these issues with the units. Steve wound up being the race relations coordinator, and his official title escapes me. But they had them in the Army and the Air Force back then. I don ’ t know the whole story of why he left Masonry, but he started to fall back around 1974. Even today many circumstances cause people to rethink their role in the order, COVID, finances, time etc. Maybe his was a victim of those circumstanc- es. Masonry can do a lot of good, you know, but it can also put stress on the individual and their fami- lies, especially when the wife is not in the OES or the Daughters of Isis (the Auxiliary to the Ancient Egyptian Arabic Order Nobles Mystic Shrine of North and South America and its Jurisdictions (A.E.A.O.N.M.S.), Inc.) or anything. It is also about what you want to invest and get in return from the fraternity. That's why I used to work two jobs, I even bagged groceries in the commissary, so I did what I had to do to not just become a card - carrying emblem wearing Mason. When I first got here in Sacramento. I was asked a question one night, when we were doing a Master Masons Degree at the Odd Fellows Hall in Sacramento. Bro. Si Wahab took notice and asked
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