How many RallyPoint members have been honored by one or more of the military orders named after saints?

LTC Stephen F. — Mon, 17 Aug 2015 12:05:50 -0400

Late in my military career I was invited to a few ceremonies where service members where honored by acceptance into a military order such as Military Order of Saint Maurice for Infantry, Military Order of Saint Martin for Quartermaster. I am aware of the Military Order of Saint Barbara for artillery, and the Military Order of Saint George for the armor. It seems all of the military orders are named after "Saints." I noticed that some date back to the middle ages in other countries such as France and Great Britain.
To the best of my knowledge I was never nominated to a military order; but, I expect many of you were. Please share what you were accepted into and why.
I included the humor topic. Please be respectful :-)
FYI COL Mikel J. Burroughs LTC Stephen C. LTC Ivan Raiklin, Esq. Capt Seid Waddell Capt Tom Brown SFC William Farrell SSgt Robert Marx SSgt Private RallyPoint Member TSgt Joe C. SGT John " Mac " McConnell SP5 Mark Kuzinski SPC Private RallyPoint Member SrA Christopher Wright Maj Marty Hogan PO1 William "Chip" Nagel SP5 Robert Ruck SCPO Morris Ramsey SGT Michael Thorin SPC Margaret Higgins SFC Joe S. Davis Jr., MSM, DSL

Response by LTC Stephen F. made Aug 17 at 2015 12:07 PM

LTC Stephen F. — Mon, 17 Aug 2015 12:07:33 -0400

I have never been nominated or accepted into a military order. The idea seems interesting and when I have time I hope to look into the history of military orders.

Response by SPC Jeffrey Bly made Aug 17 at 2015 12:23 PM

SPC Jeffrey Bly — Mon, 17 Aug 2015 12:23:12 -0400

The Knights who say Ni!

Response by SFC Michael Hasbun made Aug 17 at 2015 12:26 PM

SFC Michael Hasbun — Mon, 17 Aug 2015 12:26:51 -0400

The Ordnance order of Samuel Sharpe (not all orders use saints, some use actual historical figures and I believe Signal uses a deity). And since we are apparently including them, the Ancient Order of the Golden Shellback.

Response by COL Mikel J. Burroughs made Aug 17 at 2015 1:12 PM

COL Mikel J. Burroughs — Mon, 17 Aug 2015 13:12:44 -0400

LTC Stephen F. I was honored with the Quartermaster's Corps Order of Saint Martin.

Response by LTC Bink Romanick made Aug 17 at 2015 1:13 PM

LTC Bink Romanick — Mon, 17 Aug 2015 13:13:21 -0400

LTC Stephen F. i have been honored to receive the order of St George (Armor) and St Maurice (Infantry).

Response by SPC James Butler made Aug 17 at 2015 1:14 PM

SPC James Butler — Mon, 17 Aug 2015 13:14:02 -0400

I find it interesting that the Order of St. Barbara is now being awarded to DoD Civilians. I feel like this takes away from the award, but who am I to judge.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 17 at 2015 1:18 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 17 Aug 2015 13:18:33 -0400

I am a no one.. lol

Response by LTC Stephen C. made Aug 17 at 2015 2:06 PM

LTC Stephen C. — Mon, 17 Aug 2015 14:06:22 -0400

Not me, LTC Stephen F.! I will mention though that the Signal Corps Regimental Association awards are the Order of Mercury (Bronze, Silver and Gold, in order of ascension). Mercury, in Roman mythology, was messenger to the gods (among other things). Thus, no saints are involved in the Signal Corps awards. SFC Michael Hasbun

Response by TSgt Joshua Copeland made Aug 17 at 2015 2:34 PM

TSgt Joshua Copeland — Mon, 17 Aug 2015 14:34:52 -0400

The AF Doesn't do these. But I have been honored by Religious Orders for my military service.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 17 at 2015 2:48 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 17 Aug 2015 14:48:27 -0400

I have been knighted into the Order of Saint George.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 17 at 2015 2:57 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 17 Aug 2015 14:57:20 -0400

Intelligence has the LTC Thomas W. Knowlton Award, named after one of the pioneers of Army Intelligence. There has occasionally been talk of creating a Major Benjamin Tallmadge Award, but it never materialized. Honestly, I'm glad that my branch's award is based on one of my branch's heroes, rather than on religious iconography that may not hold the same relevance for all.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 17 at 2015 3:20 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 17 Aug 2015 15:20:31 -0400

None for me. I must be a slacker.

Response by SSG(P) Vanessa Walters made Aug 17 at 2015 4:28 PM

SSG(P) Vanessa Walters — Mon, 17 Aug 2015 16:28:45 -0400

I know that I am able to apply for the Saint Christopher for Transportation..

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 17 at 2015 4:47 PM

LCDR Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 17 Aug 2015 16:47:28 -0400

I originally responded with OLJ, Knights of St. Lazarus...however, I believe it does not fit the intent of the thread.

"He who types quickly, must hit 'enter' cautiously" -Old Irish Proverb

Response by SFC Kevin Presser made Aug 17 at 2015 7:16 PM

SFC Kevin Presser — Mon, 17 Aug 2015 19:16:39 -0400

I was nominated and accepted into the Order of St. Barbara for accomplishments/contributions to the Field Artillery.

Response by SGM Steve Wettstein made Aug 17 at 2015 7:53 PM

SGM Steve Wettstein — Mon, 17 Aug 2015 19:53:54 -0400

I am a member of the Order of the Marchaussee. This award can be given to anyone that affiliated with the Army MPs. The distinguished Order of the Marechaussee traces its beginnings to the formation of a provost unit, the Marechaussee Corps, in the Continental Army. The corps, authorized by Congress on 27 May 1778 borrows its name from the French term for provost troops. The “Order of the Marchaussee” acknowledges the outstanding dedication and devotion to the Military Police Corps Regiment. Your degree of professionalism, high standards of integrity and morality, and your promotion of esprit de corps are unparalleled. These qualities mirror those required of the sixty three men, who donned the blue uniform with yellow piping, in 1778 and mounted their horses to become members of the Marechaussee Corps of the Continental Army.

Response by Sgt Mitchell Sporar made Aug 18 at 2015 12:21 AM

Sgt Mitchell Sporar — Tue, 18 Aug 2015 00:21:16 -0400

Well LTC Stephen F. , if we're allowed to count being part of the Royal Order of the Deep as SGT Randal Groover has, then let's go ahead and count my "Emerald Shellback". :-)

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 18 at 2015 9:52 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 18 Aug 2015 21:52:34 -0400

I was trying to be honored by the Order of the Boondock Saints but you have to be Irish.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 18 at 2015 10:08 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 18 Aug 2015 22:08:14 -0400

Order of Saint Maurice (Centurian level). Came as complete shock as I have not worked above (assignment wise) above Co level.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 19 at 2015 12:17 AM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 19 Aug 2015 00:17:20 -0400

Ordnance Corps Order of Samuel Sharpe & Signal Corps Bronze Order of Mercury.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 26 at 2015 8:38 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 26 Aug 2015 20:38:29 -0400

I am definitely going to comment on this later when I have my computer in front of me instead of my phone....might piss some people off....that's ok...but I will help shed some light on the practice (from my perspective) from today's standards....and no, my tid-bit will not be religiously oriented

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 26 at 2015 8:55 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 26 Aug 2015 20:55:10 -0400

Let me tell you something, "Major General"...you are part of the real problem!!!!!!....I think, you are only out to line your own pockets.....I will, I say again WILL, comment further when I am in front of my computer....prepare for a battle of statistics, truth, and logic! (PS).....there is no such thing as "eradicate" when it comes to human dumb asses......did it ever occur to you that perhaps it is not feasibly possible to "eradicate" shit!!!!!! When the person coming in has no background in the area of sexual deviancy? IE: hasn't been caught prior to enlistment/commission?

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 26 at 2015 9:07 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 26 Aug 2015 21:07:48 -0400

Without knowing the facts, but based on what I do know about our arrogant officer corp....@#&$ him.....I don't give a fat rats ass how old he is.....he knows exactly how old he is unless he has dementia.....he has been coddled most of his life and accustomed to NOT being told NO!!!!!.....if he had an illness worth mentioning....it would have already been in the news......just another arrogant ass clown who hopefully (but probably not) will have to answer for his crimes!

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 26 at 2015 9:13 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 26 Aug 2015 21:13:10 -0400

Wow!.....sensor any rally point? Since when did you become the Gestapo?

Response by COL Jim Kohlmann made Aug 26 at 2015 9:18 PM

COL Jim Kohlmann — Wed, 26 Aug 2015 21:18:40 -0400

The Signal Corps has the Order of Mercury, sponsored by the Signal Corps Regimental Association. No saints here. I am a proud awardee of both the Bronze and Silver Order of Mercury.

Response by SPC Margaret Higgins made Aug 26 at 2015 11:27 PM

SPC Margaret Higgins — Wed, 26 Aug 2015 23:27:16 -0400

Thanks for honoring me by mentioning my name; LTC Stephen F..

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 27 at 2015 6:03 PM

CW3 Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 27 Aug 2015 18:03:29 -0400

I have not been honored by any military order, but in aviation we have the Order of Saint Michael

HISTORY

Saint Michael is referred to in biblical writings as an archangel who wages war against evil. He was known as the heavenly prince or champion who specifically charged forward to guard and defend others. He is legendary as the leader of angels who fought a war in heaven and conquered the dragon and cast it down from the skies. Michael's battles are an allegory of the struggle between good and evil. Throughout the centuries, Michael has been depicted with a sword fighting or standing over the conquered dragon.

The legendary image of Saint Michael defeating the dragon exemplifies the bravery and gallantry that we associate with the Aviation soldier. His angelic qualities demonstrate the boldness and swiftness of Army Aviation on the battlefield. As a brave warrior and protector, Saint Michael is the embodiment of courage and justice and is an appropriate symbol of the values and high level of excellence exhibited throughout Army Aviation.

Response by LTC David Brown made Jun 20 at 2018 7:09 AM

LTC David Brown — Wed, 20 Jun 2018 07:09:41 -0400

I was Ordered to the bosses office, does that count?

Response by Cpl Gabriel F. made Jun 21 at 2018 5:09 PM

Cpl Gabriel F. — Thu, 21 Jun 2018 17:09:41 -0400

Interesting to know.

Response by SFC William Stephens A. Jr., 3 MSM, JSCM made Jun 27 at 2018 2:41 PM

SFC William Stephens A. Jr., 3 MSM, JSCM — Wed, 27 Jun 2018 14:41:45 -0400

THE ORDER OF SAINT BARBARA
SAMC receipt (LEADERSHIP)
MG Aubrie Red Newman Award receipt (Counseling and Mentorship)

Response by CSM Richard StCyr made Aug 7 at 2018 11:53 AM

CSM Richard StCyr — Tue, 07 Aug 2018 11:53:03 -0400

The Engineers have the DeFleury medal in Bronze , Silver, and Gold. Named after a French Officer serving as deputy to Mad Anthony Wayne in the revolutionary war. Credited with capturing Stoney Point near West Point.

Response by CW5 John M. made Aug 8 at 2018 7:26 AM

CW5 John M. — Wed, 08 Aug 2018 07:26:53 -0400

Here are some rather obscure (loose) orders/associations I was associated with - or aware of during my time in Army Aviation:
1. The "Hoverbug" (with signed certificate after 1st Solo in an OH-23 - Initiation was to be thrown clothed ino the pool)
2. "Tac-X" Institute (with signed certificate)
3. "Cobra Hall" (with hat pin)
4. The "First Kill Club" - RVN (I won't go into the initiation "rite" but it was at the Club)
5. The order of the "turtle" (with hat pin) in Vietnam
6. The "Blue Instrument Card" (A "lifetime" award)
7. "Honorary Ranger" (Awarded by association with 75th Rangers in Colorado)
8. "Mile High Club"
9. "Order of the Spur" a Cavalry association accompanied with a formal "dining in"

Response by PO1 Don Gulizia made Aug 8 at 2018 12:48 PM

PO1 Don Gulizia — Wed, 08 Aug 2018 12:48:09 -0400

Not in the military orders you are describing. Like some of my shipmates, the only one I've been honored with is the Ancient Order of the Deep presided over by Neptunus Rex and his royal scribe Davy Jones!

Response by CMDCM Gene Treants made Aug 8 at 2018 9:36 PM

CMDCM Gene Treants — Wed, 08 Aug 2018 21:36:46 -0400

Since PO1 Don Gulizia opened the door, I feel it only proper to mention some of the variations of the Orders of Shellbacks that the Navy has recognized over the years and a few of which I have achieved.

There are many and of course unlike Army and other services not named after Saints, but more sea service entities and events.

Yes I am a Shellback (USS Rathburne (FF-1057) and in addition, variations to the Shellback designation include but are not necessarily limited to:

The Order of the Blue Nose (Domain of the Polar Bear) for maritime personnel who have crossed the Arctic Circle. (USS Nashville (LPD-13))

The Domain of the Golden Dragon for maritime personnel who have crossed the International Date Line. (USS Rathburne (FF-1057)

Persian Excursion - The Society of the Arabian Nights for maritime personnel who have served in the Persian Gulf. (Various Units of Destroyer Squadron Thirty-Three)

Plank owner for personnel stationed to a ship or shore command when that ship or unit was created or placed in commission. (USS Anzio (CG-68))

The Order of the Red Nose (Domain of the Penguin) for maritime personnel who have crossed the Antarctic Circle. AKA – Knight of the Emperors Court

The Order of the Rock for maritime personnel who have transited the Strait of Gibraltar. (USS Cambria (APA-36) and USS Nashville (LPD-13))

The Order of the Spanish Main for maritime personnel who have sailed in the Caribbean. (USS Cambria (APA-36), USS Nashville (LPD-13), USS Anzio (CG-68))

The Order of the Sparrow for maritime personnel who sailed on all 7 seas. (the Arctic Ocean, the North Atlantic Ocean, the South Atlantic Ocean, the Indian Ocean, the North Pacific Ocean, the South Pacific Ocean, the Southern (or Antarctic) Ocean) (To many Ships and deployments to list!)

The Order of the Ditch for maritime personnel who have passed through the Panama Canal. (USN, Ret)

Additionally, some of the ones I have not done are:
The Order of the Ebony Shellback for maritime personnel who have crossed the Equator on Lake Victoria

The Emerald Shellback or Royal Diamond Shellback for maritime personnel who cross the Equator at the prime meridian.

The Golden Shellback for maritime personnel who have crossed the point where the Equator crosses the International Date Line.

The Top Secret Shellback are for submariners who have crossed the equator at a classified degree of longitude.

The Caterpillar Club for aviators who had made an unscheduled parachute jump from a disabled plane.

The Century Club for aviators who have completed their 100th carrier landing.

The Realm of the Czars for maritime personnel who crossed into the Black Sea.

The Order of the Lakes for maritime personnel who have sailed on all five Great Lakes.

The Order of Magellan for maritime personnel who circumnavigated the Earth.

The Magellan's Strait Jacket Club for all maritime personnel who transited the Straits of Magellan.

The Moss Back are personnel who have sailed around the tip of South America.

The Order of the Golden Oscar for maritime personnel who have served with the Entertainment Liaison Office.

The Order of Purple Porpoises for maritime personnel who crossed the junction of the Equator and the International Date Line at the Sacred Hour of the Vernal Equinox

The Safari to Suez for maritime personnel who have passed through the Suez Canal.

The Order of the Sand Squid (or Sand Sailor) for maritime personnel who have been attached to land-based Army or Marine units stationed in the Middle East.

The Order of the Square Rigger for maritime personnel who have served aboard the USCGC Eagle or USS Constitution.

AS you can see, we have many forms of recognition for our travels around the world! And yes there are certificates for each! Even today I never go on any cruise without my pocket-sized Shellback and Blue Nose cards.

Response by SGT Michael Bair made Nov 30 at 2018 4:24 PM

SGT Michael Bair — Fri, 30 Nov 2018 16:24:01 -0500

I wish...