Are military members being Freemasons a dying breed?

2013-10-29T11:53:52-04:00

I was wondering how many people out there in the military are active Freemasons? The Freemans have a heritage of having military men in there ranks but it seems almost like we are a dying breed. Any comments or thoughts on this subject would be great. Thank you.

Response by SFC James Baber made Dec 18 at 2013 10:05 PM

2013-12-18T22:05:10-05:00

Short and sweet answer yes, they are less and less within the ranks. Back when I first came in during the early 80s, the prominence was very well known, and it also showed with the favoritism as well, I think that may be part of it diminishing as well, as the cleaning up of some of the old boy system of cliques and help a buddy out was forced out during the mid to late 90s, I think the FMs were pretty much a done deal for current military members. Now there are still some around, just not in the numbers they were 3 or more decades ago.

Response by CPT Mike M. made Dec 18 at 2013 10:09 PM

2013-12-18T22:09:07-05:00

My last 1SG was one and I know there are a few others I've come across. It is pretty rare though but I haven't been in long enough to really say how the numbers or at least ratio compares to the military in the past.

Response by SFC Michael Hasbun made Dec 18 at 2013 10:09 PM

2013-12-18T22:09:28-05:00

I hope so... I've never seen a unit having a bunch of Freemasons in it ever turn out well for the non members in the unit...

Response by LTC Jason Bartlett made Dec 18 at 2013 10:30 PM

2013-12-18T22:30:15-05:00

<b><font face="Arial" size="4">“The first rule of Fight Club is: You do not talk about Fight Club. The second rule of Fight Club is: You do not talk about Fight Club”.  I think interest in freemasonry throughout the country has waned and is not just limited to the Army. A lack of </font><font face="Arial"><span style="font-size: 19px; ">interest leads to a </span></font><font face="Arial" size="4">lack of understanding in what Freemasonry is about and many misconceptions are formed. The one thing I do know is that when Masonry flourishes so do their communities, charities and other beneficiaries of a strong fraternal organization. </font></b><b><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: Arial; ">Want to learn more I recommend Andrew Hammer’s "<i>Observing the  Craft" </i>perhaps the most intellectually  provocative Masonic book written  in the last 150 years. </span></b>

Response by SGM Matthew Quick made Dec 18 at 2013 11:18 PM

2013-12-18T23:18:51-05:00

I think if you 'ask 3 times' you'll get your answers. ;)

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 19 at 2013 7:44 PM

2013-12-19T19:44:53-05:00

Are they still around?

Response by SFC Michael Hasbun made Dec 19 at 2013 8:19 PM

2013-12-19T20:19:06-05:00

I think some lodges, like the Prince Halls for one, have put a bad taste into people's mouths. Everyone equates them with freemasonry, and aren't aware of the organization as a whole...

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 19 at 2013 10:10 PM

2013-12-19T22:10:24-05:00

I see rings, coats, shirts, decals on vehicles every day. I have also see a lot of "drug deals" take place between masons and masons turn their backs on non members, so I would have to say I hope the numbers dwindle down to a big fat ZERO.

Response by SN Bill Turner made Dec 21 at 2013 6:59 AM

2013-12-21T06:59:00-05:00

Yes indeed they are a dying breed no matter if your military or not.

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 21 at 2013 7:10 AM

2013-12-21T07:10:22-05:00

MAJ Bartlett hit the nail on the head, there are those that throw it around, expect favors, promotions and such and others that organize events, volunteer and don't flaunt it.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 22 at 2013 2:02 PM

2013-12-22T14:02:31-05:00

From what I have seen, overall I think that participation in freemasonry is down.  If you look at the "Prince Hall" masons though, I think their enrollment is just as high as it ever was and these are the ones that you see displaying the stickers and the majority of the guys wearing rings.  These are also the ones that are causing the problems within units from my experience.<div><br><div>True freemasonry was built on principles and is a good thing but as with everything, there are those that will abuse it.</div></div>

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 25 at 2013 7:20 AM

2013-12-25T07:20:55-05:00

Quick Answer is "YES" Our numbers are declining both in the Military and Civilian Community. I will also say this "If I know you to be a Mason... I expect you to carry yourself as a MASON" With that being said, There are bad apples in every group. Believe it or not there are some people in the Military that make the rest of us in the Military look bad. There are some Priests in the Catholic church that make ALL Priests in the Catholic Church look bad. The are bad apples in EVERY GROUP and Mason is no different. Those that use Masonry to get out of trouble is one of those people that are using Masonry for the WRONG Purpose. A lack of understanding allows people to ASSUME. If anyone has a bad taste in thier mouth about Masonry PLEASE take the time to sit down with one of us that take Masonry VERY SERIOUS and just ask us a few questions until you get a better understanding about how it helps our communities.

Response by PO2 Pete Haga made Dec 25 at 2013 11:55 PM

2013-12-25T23:55:56-05:00

I personally am a 32nd degree master mason and I feel that the reason why it seems to be declining is that a mason will not and can not ask you to join. All you have to do is ask a free mason if you want to join. He will get you headed in the correct direction. And when you look at the masons look at all the good they do for the membership and the community.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 26 at 2013 11:12 AM

2013-12-26T11:12:17-05:00

<p>I would say yes.  Mainly because of the quality of uptanding men available.  It reflects in the recruits the military is allowing to join.  Its bad enough the military is less than 1% of the population, but that 1% is not always top quality.  It makes it hard "To Make good men outstanding men" when what is available to work with is less than pass quality. </p><p>  In my travels, it took me a long time to "Become One", based on what I was seeing in the ranks of Masons.  I had to search myself, and ask if I could be an assest not just a member, and represent Masonary as it should be.  I decided I could.  But not everyone has the same desire or intentions.  We as the forerunners must become more creative in our selection process, dont get caught in boosting our memberships just for the sake of.  We need to acutually go thru process of bringing in quality men into our fold.  Its like I tell my Soldiers "you are an extention of me, our motorpools and unit.  How you conduct yourself becomes a direct reflection of those you represent".  Those who know me, know I represent Masonary as a Mason, not as a PHA Mason or an Ancient Mason, but as a Mason.  If that quality is repesented, then maybe, just maybe, we can find quality men to mold.     </p><p>If we as Masons dont represent our Brotherhood as the fine Brotherhood that it, then the few quality men out there will not come to know what some of us have come to love, this Brotherhood of Masonary!  </p>

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 26 at 2013 11:16 AM

2013-12-26T11:16:24-05:00

<font color="#000000" size="3" face="Times New Roman">

</font><p style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;" class="MsoNormal"><font color="#000000" size="3" face="Calibri">I think the question should have been stated, “Why is the
enrollment of service members down.” My grandfather was “full circle” in an
area know for extreme racism and prejudice. After I learned this I looked
deeper into becoming a Free and Accepted Mason. What I learned was a bunch of
knuckle heads acting a fool representing either Prince Hall or Scottish Right
and putting a bad taste in peoples mouth. What a lot of people do not see
anymore is the community work that this organization does to better said
community. This may be a reason that membership is lower in certain areas as
well as an overall decline. </font></p><font color="#000000" size="3" face="Times New Roman">

</font>

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 26 at 2013 12:41 PM

2013-12-26T12:41:23-05:00

I would like to know based on the responses, how many of those are Masons?  There are alot of self-inflicted misconceptions about the Craft, from the Craft.  I will be the very first one to SQUASH that noise if you come at me expecting "special treatment or favors", because your are a Mason, and I can provide references if needed.  I am a very active Mason, and NOT ONCE have a I ever asked for, been given or expected special treatment from my Soldiers or Leaders.  I conduct myself accordingly at all times and always will, as I was in this man's Army for 15 years before I was a Mason.  This discussion has been and will around for the next 238 years, nothing we can do about it even if we have 3 or 32 times...it still won't sink in UNTIL you are well informed.

Response by CPL Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2013 7:46 PM

2013-12-27T19:46:28-05:00

I see a lot of people claim that they are mason and usually they are the worst soldiers in the unit. They are super pretentious and super condesending people.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2013 7:53 PM

2013-12-27T19:53:26-05:00

I feel that people do not know exactly what freemasonry is. It is more then rings, hats and auto emblems. Yes there are certain groups that give Masons a bad name but every group has a few bad apples. I can say that freemasonry is never judging and seeing Every man on the level. To all the Mason bashers, if it was such a bad thing why is our highest enlisted board named after a Freemason? (Audie Murphy ) food for thought . 

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2013 7:59 PM

2013-12-27T19:59:52-05:00

Its just that allot of Freemasons hide and, non members have a view like we are only out to help our brothers in the fraternity. Its all chalked up to misinformation and not understanding what Freemasonry is all about. The military customs themselves are steeped in Freemasonry drill and ceremony, even some of the creeds and oaths and things said in the military. Not to mention the country is founded on Freemasonry most of the signers of the constitution, and most of our presidents were masons and swore into office on a Masonic bible. The boston tee party is also rumored to have been the work of Masons. Lots of mystic and history in the Craft. We make good men better-

Response by SGT Montana Crawford made Dec 27 at 2013 8:00 PM

2013-12-27T20:00:08-05:00

It's a channel for favoritism through promotions and awards through outside means from the Army itself. Therefor it has no place in the Army and deserves to perish.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2013 8:04 PM

2013-12-27T20:04:20-05:00

I see a lot  of people saying Prince Hall lodges are the ones that always bringing the negativity . But the only reason you don't here from the other George Washington  lodges is because the only except. White members there are a very limited few that excepts  others . Prince hall  does not discrimante. So before you bash one research all. I am a Freemason and I have never asked for favors or did favors for others that are masons. I treat all men and women with the same respect that I would give another mason.  I do have decals on my car and I do wear a ring . But that's because I am proud of my organization. 

Response by CSM(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2013 8:05 PM

2013-12-27T20:05:46-05:00

<p>Can I just go ahead and ask?  Are the "Prince Hall" guys you refer to historically Black?</p><p> </p><p>In my experience, the "ring knockers" are a bunch of jackasses and use their secret decoder rings to hook their buddies up and cover for weak NCOs.</p>

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2013 9:42 PM

2013-12-27T21:42:29-05:00

So where can I sign up? I rather not sign up for the prince hall either.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2013 9:53 PM

2013-12-27T21:53:24-05:00

I look at the responses here and it seems that there are two views on this subject. Those who are informed or aware. And those who are uninformed and ignorant. I have seen in the past the good and bad of them, just like anything else in the Army. I have never seen a soldier past over or selected for jobs or promotion based on a affiliation with any group. Has it happened? Most likely. But, again that stuff happens with all types. If you uninformed and ignorant, then ask. Don't bitch about it.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2013 9:54 PM

2013-12-27T21:54:33-05:00

Master Sergeant, Freemasonry has seen a decline in membership over the last 50 years. It has held on in the military for obvious reasons. The military is a brotherhood that only people who have served can understand. This fact remains true of Masonry. I have been in 6 years and I have heard all of the rumors regarding Masonry. The CSM that passed over UCMJ on a SSG because the SSG was a "higher ranking" mason. Anyone who knows the truth of this knows this is not true. I was not in during the 80's so I cannot speak about the experiences they had then. I was exposed to Freemasonry in Germany when I first came in. I never witnessed preferential treatment, but I did see a sense of cohesion that made Germany, despite the location, one of the best duty stations I have been to yet. I am not saying this is because of their influence, but I am not arguing the it was not either. <div><br></div><div>Freemasonry has been a part of the United States for longer than our national identity existed. There are numerous amount of Presidents and high ranking officials that can be counted among them. President Truman, Lewis and Clark, and most Generals that were sent out toward the expedition to the west. It is a very alluring brotherhood to belong to. I will agree that most people that first seek out Freemasonry do so without the comprehension on what makes this organization special. It has tore down boundaries that have long separated us as a people in many aspects. The philosophy is to make good men better. You can brief your Soldiers that they are ambassadors to the Army on Friday, but the statistics of sexual assault and DUI's show that not all that joined carry the military values. This stands true of Masonry. You can approach something with good intentions, but they will be progressive or stagnant based on the actions of the individual. We are conditioned to blame the organization for the actions of few. I expect Soldiers to act like professionals and Masons to do likewise. </div><div><br></div><div>Our priorities as Service members is to improve ourselves in all aspects. Some people do so with church and others with books. We all have our individual and collective roads to follow. It is on the individual to see what is right for him. As the Major said prior to this. To be one you need to ask. There was a stigma about confirming that you were a Mason when I was in Oklahoma. It makes it very difficult to break stereotypes and educate people if they do not know who to ask. </div>

Response by SSG Samuel Sohm made Dec 27 at 2013 10:13 PM

2013-12-27T22:13:44-05:00

I am an active Freemason. Primarily from a civilian lodge, but there are some military in it as well. I have to say that, as a new brother, I didn't realize that so many people around me would be masons. One of the men I used to see walking up and down the hallway everyday is one, along with one of my contractors, and a few people in my unit as well. It feels nice to know that should I need some advice or guidance, a man will be there who will care about me both professionally and as a brother if I need him. Personally I would like to see more men in the fraternity, as like a good NCO, the brethren will always "look out" for you, to mean that they will both tell you if you are doing something wrong, and keep you safe from unwarranted wrong. <br><br>Keep in mind that the worst time for the Brotherhood is long past and occurred in the 1830's. I am glad I was not a mason at that time...<br>

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2013 10:24 PM

2013-12-27T22:24:10-05:00

I would definitely agree our numbers have dwindled. I am the youngest in my order by almost 37 years age difference.

Response by SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2013 10:44 PM

2013-12-27T22:44:29-05:00

I want to be a freemason..don't know how

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2013 11:38 PM

2013-12-27T23:38:22-05:00

How do I become a Mason

Response by SGT Tommy Silvas made Dec 27 at 2013 11:42 PM

2013-12-27T23:42:50-05:00

If George Washington was a Freemason it has to be a good organization

Response by SSG Ralph Watkins made Dec 28 at 2013 12:29 AM

2013-12-28T00:29:16-05:00

Go to some of the National Guard units.  They are still quite heavy with Masons, especially the senior ranks.  Being accepted into the Masons means you are getting groomed for going very far.  I haven't seen a bad one in the bunch.  All of the officers we had that were Masons were top notch.  I have some reservations about them but they sponsored the right kind of people.

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 28 at 2013 1:05 AM

2013-12-28T01:05:46-05:00

Short answer in the states Yes overseas No.

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 28 at 2013 1:07 AM

2013-12-28T01:07:34-05:00

Overseas no, stateside yes. There are alot of freemasons from overseas that can't find a lodge in the states.<br>

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 28 at 2013 1:40 AM

2013-12-28T01:40:27-05:00

I've been in a few units and know of a few people that are masons. But it's kinda hard to find out who is when they don't talk about it.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 28 at 2013 2:39 AM

2013-12-28T02:39:30-05:00

I am so accepted amongst Brethren and Fellows.  I was always interested in the Fraternity and while I was in Germany during the years of 2000 to 2004 I was going to join.  I just found that the war really threw everything for a loop.  I found time was impossible.  From Germany I PCSed to a CAB at Fort Carson and doing back to back deployments.  Now that I am in a Garrison Command position and in a TDA unit the benefits are very rewarding.  I sit in the East for the Lodge in which I belong and now that I look back on all the deployments and field exercises I believe that this has had a drastic impact on our numbers.  I really don't know if I could have properly used that gauge while in a deploying unit.  There are certain things that the fraternity should be getting involved with in the military community and as a leader I think the best program to do so is your BOSS program and the USO.  I have found that Soldiers do want to do stuff outside of XBOX and Playstation.  So I challenge the craft to do volunteer work within those organizations.  Just by you giving your time to those organizations your Craft will grow.  A lot of these new Soldiers don't know about the craft either.  Unless they have family with in the fraternity they don't know much other than what they see on TV or on Youtube and lets face it when looking for information on the net there is a whole lot of stuff out there that shy people away.  So again I challenge my Brethren and Fellows to get out into the community again, volunteer for the Chapels and just do what we do best and they will come to you.  Thanks for the post MSgt and Look well to the East my Brothers!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 28 at 2013 2:54 AM

2013-12-28T02:54:22-05:00

<font color="#000000" size="3" face="Times New Roman">

</font><p style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;" class="MsoNormal"><font color="#000000" size="3" face="Calibri">I don't think that military members involved in Masonry is a
dying breed, it's just that overseas you will see more (Germany, Korea), they
are more active in those areas because they are out of their element and are
looking for familiar faces, PHAmily. On the other hand, while in the USA it
isn't as easy to get into a lodge, the standard of old lodges versus those you
find overseas are completely different. You can't expect someone to come with
an inquiry as to how to become one, if people aren't putting the right precept
out there. You use to be able to tell a Mason and/or OES by how they carried themselves,
now you never know. I don't fault anyone for it, it's just that the discernment
that was once a part of the process, seems to be no longer present.</font></p><font color="#000000" size="3" face="Times New Roman">

</font>

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 28 at 2013 6:56 AM

2013-12-28T06:56:37-05:00

I would like to join, and have filed an application with the local lodge. However, I cannot afford the dues at this time. When I can, I will. As was stated in an earlier response, I've seen many senior NCOs and officers who are Masons. In fact I was encouraged to join by one, after inquiring and stating my interest. I hope to become a Mason, sometime in 2014.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 28 at 2013 7:33 AM

2013-12-28T07:33:26-05:00

It's not a dying breed, I am a freemason and I have not joined to gain special favor amongst my fellow service members. I joined because it was what I wanted to do. 

Response by SGT Kristopher Lather made Dec 28 at 2013 12:46 PM

2013-12-28T12:46:33-05:00

I have friends that are Freemasons, some I knew of some I didn't know until the Topic was brought up, Some I've seen, I won't say "Abuse"... but ADVERTISE that they're Freemasons, Especially when Mentioning it to Higher Command when they're about to go before Promotional Boards.. If you're a Freemason, good for you, but please don't advertise it for your own personal gains...

Response by PO1 Ray Chatterton made Dec 28 at 2013 2:35 PM

2013-12-28T14:35:46-05:00

I served 20 years in the US Armed Forces. I have also never been approached by a Freemason in any way or form. From what I can see, the Freemasons are dying off because they are limiting who they will invite to be members.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 29 at 2013 11:53 AM

2013-12-29T11:53:29-05:00

Here is my take on it if anyone cares. Every generation of my Family has been in the Military the men were Masons and the woman Eastern Star members. My grand father was an active member till his death and so was my Grand mother. I was given his book by her and she sent me to his lodge in NJ where he was the Grand Master to become a member and they turned me down. His Ring and Chair sit in the memorial hall and I could not become a member of his lodge because I lived in NC. I under stood that and went to a lodge in NC and was turned down because I was white. At the time I was pissed and didn't know that lodges where split into races. So it turned me off from trying any more.

Now that I'm at the end of my Army service and back north I am trying again up here. My point in this rant is it use to be a tradition handed Down from your Father from his father and so forth and the reason there are less and less in the military is it is no longer a passed down tradition. It is really hard to get your foot in the door and prove your lineage and your worth. So that my rant and back story on this.

P.S.

Still trying to get into a lodge!!!

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 29 at 2013 2:13 PM

2013-12-29T14:13:35-05:00

I don't think is dying! I believe that we are everywhere and a lot of people want to become Mason. In my Unit they all ask me every day!! Steilacoom Lodge #2, WA!!!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 30 at 2013 9:08 AM

2013-12-30T09:08:56-05:00

There have been some very good points made here and comments from the brothers have helped to explain some of the issues. The problem with the drop in numbers can be for several reasons. First due to the internet most of our "secrets" are no longer secret. Pretty much you can get everything off the internet except a dues card. However it is not for the dues card that we do it. The society is about making good men better yet there are bad apples who get in because their motivations are hidden. Like one person stated we are very selective about membership and for good reason, well atleast some lodges are. I have seen some actively recruiting which is completely wrong. <div>Since time immemorial man has been the support structure or pillar of the family and community and we as Masons just try to bring men back to that status. In order to do that we have to chip away at the rough spots and make you perfectly square so your foundation is strong and not unstable. </div><div>Several have mentioned bad apples and that is absolutely correct but it is not just PHA or Blue Lodge. Ring knockers are everywhere and it is the responsibility of all regular and upright masons to call them out, take their light and set them straight. Sticking a dozen emblems to your car does not make you a Mason, it makes you a dues payer. </div><div> Masons donate an estimated $2 million a day to charities world wide and are supposed to represent the best men of society who are all on the same "level". Unfortunately many of the younger generation today treat it as a social or boys club and that is the fault of the older generation for not "squaring" them away.</div>

Response by COL Thomas F. made Dec 31 at 2013 9:24 AM

2013-12-31T09:24:31-05:00

I actually tried to become a mason through my dad who is a 32deg. However, I need two masons to vouch for me and that is the hard part. Its not like they have a recruiting stand on the corner, and getting into a lodge without an escort is difficult. So, unless my experience is off base, I can see why membership is declining. If a mason is in the Alexandria/Quantico area, I'd like to chat.

Response by PO1 Ray Chatterton made Jan 1 at 2014 2:06 PM

2014-01-01T14:06:02-05:00

Having read through the various comments for this thread. I have come to the conclusion that I will never be a Freemason. The following list are the reasons I feel this way.

1. I do not know any Freemasons.
2. I may have retired from the US Coast Guard, but I retired as an Enlisted Person.
3. I am not financially independent, therefore I am not rich enough to be considered for membership.
4. The Freemasons seem to be a very exclusive club that has major restrictions for membership. This in itself is the main reason that I feel that the Freemasons are a dying breed.
5. I am classified as being 90% Service Related for my Disability Rating. which limits my ability to climb the stairs that normally lead to the second floor of buildings where the local Freemason Halls are located.
6. None of my family, to my knowledge, were members of the Freemasons.
and finally,
7. I am not sure if the Freemasons meet my requirements for me to join.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 6 at 2014 9:50 AM

2014-01-06T09:50:32-05:00

Conspiracy theorist have it all wrong, the Illuminati was real yes and they were disbanded on black Friday in their land of origin Bavaria. Is it possible that  an offshoot organization still exists? possibly, could they be in the ranks of Freemasonry possibly its all speculative. The reverse of the dollar bill to a mason we see the all seeing eye which represents the great architect of the universe (AKA) God, the rest is just a design. Prince Hall was made a mason to send messages between lodges in military camps, he then decided he wanted the opportunity for other black men to be masons and requested charter from the United Grand Lodge of England in which all charters come from. Too many people are uneducated on Freemasonry just because you see a some high ranking people in the Army with the masonic ring doesn't mean if your not a mason your doomed we don't just show special favor to our own, we are for helping anyone in need as far as possible without serious injury to ourselves. If you would pay attention most of your home towns have a masonic lodge which should hold charity's and participate in parades and community projects. Freemasonry in the military is not dying its hiding because people that don't understand our fraternity or that have seen a mason that is not living or acting on the square causes trouble for all of us. 

Response by MSG Sean Hendricks made Jan 7 at 2014 8:33 AM

2014-01-07T08:33:29-05:00

I can tend to agree with your statement but, I still see steady "enrollment" if you will. For Example, at Fort Hood.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 7 at 2014 9:13 AM

2014-01-07T09:13:46-05:00

I had a unit where about 2/3rds of the soldiers were living
in Freemason neglect. Many of the senior
member were Freemason’s and some of the junior enlisted. It was amazing how a platoon sergeant couldn’t
get the supplies we needed but the specialist in the next office could. From
what I saw the organization fostered a mentality that was contradictory to the
military and abuse ran rampart. To this
day if I hear the word Mason involved with military I run the other way because
the unfair treatment to all who were not in the group, was something I simply
couldn’t stand.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 7 at 2014 10:11 PM

2014-01-07T22:11:29-05:00

Brother Cole, I feel that stateside and overseas are two
different things when it comes to Masonry. The reason I feel this way is in Germany
almost every Brother or Sistars out there stay very active. Now that I have
been in the states for 7 months now everyone I talk with are not active for one
reason or another. To me it’s like going to college if you are going to pay for
your degrees and spend years studying for the knowledge use it for ever. So why
stop?

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 7 at 2014 11:03 PM

2014-01-07T23:03:34-05:00

I don't think they are a dying breed nor is there any shortage. You can see their little club emblem things on their cars all over the place both on and off post and I've yet
to meet one that isn't ashamed to announce how much being a mason helps
them "get what they need" ie out of duty, out of trouble, promotions,
so on and so forth... so no, I don't believe they are a dying breed or any shortage. <br>

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 8 at 2014 10:55 AM

2014-01-08T10:55:43-05:00

My very 1st 1SG was a Freemason and did not have crazy emblems or conveyed it.  Also to caveat I never have been approached asking to consider it as a member.  I will say that when Washington, Franklin, and Jefferson the founding members of this society would roll over in their graves if they see what occurs today.  Speaking unintelligently on the subject  regardless of rank should be considered for membership for th eright reasons not because they need to attain promotion, slip through the cracks; etc.  Accountability needs to be held regardless of membership and outside interference

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 8 at 2014 8:32 PM

2014-01-08T20:32:04-05:00

I do not think so; Most units I've been in in the last 5 years have had more than a handful at every echelon, but I think they're just more conservative nowadays. I know next to nothing about it, but I do know that President Truman's portrait looked awesome; it really displays the pride and honor he had in his organization, definitely  intrigued me:

Response by SPC Christopher Smith made Jan 8 at 2014 9:01 PM

2014-01-08T21:01:35-05:00

Since I am not a member I do not know much of the organization, or its branches, but from what I did research in college when i was interested in joining, because of extended family ties to the organization I know this. Entry is not all that difficult: Be a man, freeborn, of good repute and well-recommended; A belief in a Supreme Being (says nothing of what you have to believe in); Ability to support one's self and family; Of lawful age; and Come to Freemasonry of their own free will and accord. <div><br></div><div>The military is a perfect breeding ground for people looking to make connections and a stronger fraternal structure. I don't think Freemasons are any less present as they are just more cautious of who they bring in and their intent once they are in. All the Illuminati freaks and geeks, along with media influence has painted the organization in a twisted light. </div>

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 31 at 2014 3:57 PM

2014-01-31T15:57:22-05:00

I have only read a few of the responses and would like to add that there are some areas that are growing in Freemasons. my area is one on the level. but it is a fight to keep growing and stay on the level.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 31 at 2014 4:44 PM

2014-01-31T16:44:52-05:00

I've encountered quite a few. They're the ones receiving handouts and favoritism without qualifications.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 3 at 2014 9:50 PM

2014-02-03T21:50:13-05:00

No just not so out in the open as much. There are at least one in every unit.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 3 at 2014 9:50 PM

2014-02-03T21:50:16-05:00

No just not so out in the open as much. There are at least one in every unit.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 7 at 2014 10:58 PM

2014-02-07T22:58:37-05:00

I have had an interest in becoming a Mason, however I don't feel that my religious beliefs are strong enough, I haven't been active in a church for quite some time now. However, even if I was, I'm not sure what Freemasonry is all about, and I wouldn't know how to go about joining.

Response by LTC Herman Cohen made Apr 2 at 2014 4:12 PM

2014-04-02T16:12:04-04:00

It isn't Freemasonry in the Military that's dying; its fraternal organizations in general. After I moved from CT to DC my CT Lodge had to merge with another lodge just to have enough active members to fill all the chairs. But the same is true of the Oddfellows, the Knights of Pythias and the Knights of Columbus.

Response by PO1 William "Chip" Nagel made Apr 5 at 2014 8:50 PM

2014-04-05T20:50:01-04:00

Masons have always been a presence in our Military but I was never approached and really never paid it much nevermind while I served. Although as a History Buff I have nothing but respect for the Masons. After I retired I was approached twice and asked if I was interested. I was and am to busy but the individuals that approached me I have the Highest Regard for.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 27 at 2014 2:02 AM

2014-06-27T02:02:54-04:00

But they have come a long way from there dark age, of KKK's and Jack the Ripper was rumored to be one. Man is the variable in any organization he can make it a way to build men and everlasting friendships like combat can build a bond of one have another back. Lust to be important or a hand in power can also effect the direction of the a organization. Plus i see allot of soldiers like to mention Prince Hall which i have family members in! Put the KKK wasn't in that hall or Jack the Ripper! so u read between the lines on that subject, man is his worst enemy and with that being said pro and cons is like this if you what to join than do so, if not than don't! that is the choice made i chose not to join. but i don't look down on them, seen some use there clot to get over in military and i seen the good they did for hungry people in the city. It is a double edge sword, like our combat power we can help or cause more problems depending on how we use it!

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 9 at 2014 12:11 PM

2014-08-09T12:11:39-04:00

I have just spent a little while reading response after response and I am impressed. I am a Mason and an Active Duty Military Member and have been for a long time. I have to say I have seen the participation fall in my years. My only answer is because We will not go looking for you. 2B1 Ask1. The majority of this generation of now wants alot more handed to them. Think how this generation is raised, 12th place trophies, everyone passes, and spoon feed all the information they need, to just get by and most are fine with that. I belive in making good men better, and try to do this day in and day out for my troops, friends and anyone I meet. The biggest problem is they don't want to be better, average is good enough. This is the main reason of the decline. Of course this is all in my own opinion.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 29 at 2014 3:29 AM

2014-09-29T03:29:20-04:00

There is so many comments on this subject I haven't read them all, honestly. However it is a family tradition for me with the men in my family. I didn't join the fraternity until I was out of the service. As a "traveling man" that's all I discuss about it. To be one ask one.

Response by SFC Derahn Thornton made Sep 30 at 2014 2:21 PM

2014-09-30T14:21:55-04:00

As a Past Master who hails from Prince Hall Military Lodge #141(Yongsan Korea), I can tell you it's not what it used to be due to the quality of soldiers that have been coming in today.

Anyway, I remember when I became a Mason back in 2001, we always had a packed house. Nowadays, you have to damn near pay people to come to a lodge meeting. It lost some shine due to the troublemakers we had coming in to our beloved order. I knew CSMs, senior officers, and GO's who are on the square but they would never come out because of the bad seeds we had in the ranks.

I was once told by my GM in Oklahoma there was nothing wrong with asking a man who a brother knows to be upright and morally sound if he was interested in joining the order.

Response by SSG Lonnie Silk made Mar 18 at 2015 3:29 PM

2015-03-18T15:29:55-04:00

I think almost all groups like the Freemasons are in decline as more and more stay at home. TV and the Internet have really affected what people do. People don't get out and do things any more.

Response by SSG Ralph Watkins made Mar 25 at 2015 1:11 PM

2015-03-25T13:11:09-04:00

Come to the PA National Guard. Not a mason myself but our units are loaded with Masons. Very active in our local communities too.

Response by PO1 William "Chip" Nagel made May 24 at 2015 9:07 PM

2015-05-24T21:07:30-04:00

I have nothing but respect for the Freemasons that I have met. 2 of them are veteran friends of mine but I think that Freemasons as a whole are a dying breed like a lot of other social fraternal orders.

Response by SGT Chris Hill made Jun 10 at 2015 3:14 PM

2015-06-10T15:14:39-04:00

Active mason here, hail from killeen lodge 1125 AFAM, and yes I'd agree that it does seem like masonry is a dying breed, due to misconceptions about the craft and others seem to not be so active once they reach MM. I know that for myself, I will always stay active in a lodge until I am buried in my grave and enter the celestial lodge above

Response by Jr Nichols made Aug 10 at 2015 12:57 AM

2015-08-10T00:57:05-04:00

We have a ton of military in our lodge and more come in every year

Response by Jr Nichols made Aug 25 at 2015 11:49 PM

2015-08-25T23:49:10-04:00

In our lodge we have a strong military group of men. We just added 6 new military members in the past 5 months.

Response by Cpl Bill Johnson made Jan 6 at 2017 8:55 AM

2017-01-06T08:55:10-05:00

I'm no longer on active duty, but Freemasonry, like so many other organizations are only as good as the people in them. I have been a Mason for a year and a half, and I can tell you with complete honesty, that the men in my lodge are good men. Most of us are veterans, but, that isn't the point. They (we) believe in the uplift of mankind. realizing that you can't do Everything leads us to do what we can, where we can. Roadside cleanup, scholarships for local high schoolers, assisting at veteran's homes, assisting at homeless shelters, assisting at winter Hypothermia facilities, coat drives, are some examples.

Freemasonry can help a good man be a better man. If you have questions, I would be happy to answer them. You might also want to check out "Freemasonry For Dummies" by Brother Christopher Hoddap. It is an excellent resource for men who are considering joining, or who just want to learn more.

Response by CPT Derial Bivens made Dec 12 at 2018 10:40 PM

2018-12-12T22:40:44-05:00

There was a time when virtually all officers were Masons. That was long before my time but I heard the stories. (I did not become a Mason until ten years after I retired.) However, I served with a lot of Masons, officer and enlisted, over the years and it was their examples that led me to become a Mason. The ones that I was fortunate enough to be stationed with were all fine, upstanding, HONEST men that showed no favoritism, not even to another member of their fraternity.

Response by CSM Richard StCyr made Feb 8 at 2019 10:52 AM

2019-02-08T10:52:50-05:00

There are oodles of Freemasons in the engineers.

Response by CH (CPT) Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 8 at 2019 4:11 PM

2019-02-08T16:11:57-05:00

No. Masons are in every branch of the military today. I met several brothers while serving during my military career.

Response by Cpl James R. " Jim" Gossett Jr made Oct 10 at 2019 8:27 AM

2019-10-10T08:27:12-04:00

I can't say I'm active, but I pay my Dues always!!! A lot of Great people I've met. Just like all my Brothers on RP...

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 19 at 2020 9:30 AM

2020-02-19T09:30:21-05:00

Yes it’s a decline in membership all around, but there is another problem. Lots of people who are members don’t say anything. They aren’t proud, they don’t bring it up in conversation, and they just don’t talk about it. I knew 5 other Brothers on my last deployment but they didn’t talk about it, and when I brought it up they only wanted to speak in hushed tones and off to the side like being in the frat is a secret. No being a member isn’t a secret, the secret stuff is secret, the motto is, “To be one, you must ask one.” Well how’s anyone who wants to join suppose to ask a Mason, if that Mason is keeping his membership a secret? The problem goes back to the last 2 generations; the “Greatest” generation, and the boomers. They saw it as a great honor, they used the frat to get away from their wives and kids, and they took the whole secret thing way to seriously. So when there kids became of age, they were all like, “Oh the masons are that thing that my dad does so he don’t have to spend time with me, forget that stuff.” And then again if you aren’t proudly displaying your Masonic membership then how’s anyone suppose to ask you to join?

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 8 at 2020 8:02 AM

2020-03-08T08:02:13-04:00

Freemasons in general has declined but I have found that in recent years there is a spark of interest spreading. My lodge and the neighboring lodge has seen a significant increase of younger members and with technology on a rise it is helping with promoting Freemasonry through backed causes, fundraisers, working with the community more often. We have to accept that the old Freemason is the new Freemason and stop living in the dark. I have several Brethren who are Military and or Vets at my lodge. It’s coming back.

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2021-02-16T16:43:58-05:00

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