Are military members being Freemasons a dying breed?

Tell them again Sir. Well said.

I agree sir. I remember the old timers talking and it was held to such high regard. Businesses would close when fellow employees were coming up. I wish we could bring it back to what it was.

I was raised in Korea and saw a lot of brothers there. when I put in for Fort Drum I demited there. I ets'd in 2008 so after that I couldn't tell you but I made a lotta brothers through freemasonry in the military. There are Square and Compass's all over the houses and buildings in the Triangle of Death in Iraq :)

And Rgoer!.. I have found, in order to become informed, you must first seek out knowledge and understanding.  Society has become so spoon fed, that they would rather listen to the assumptions of others, rather than enlighten themselves.

Had a bad taste in my mouth about Masonry, until I heard your response. Good man!<br>

I agree with you. Our society wants the answers without bothering with the questions. People are quick to condescend the craft without looking at the history and benefits we have inspired. Most people looked shocked when I tell them the prerequisites to become a shriner. You make a good point that if you are a Mason then carry yourself accordingly. Would you walk around in a bar downtown in your dress uniform trying to fight people or indulge in other despicable acts? It is a lack of mentorship that results in these activities.

SGT Menzie, the same can be said about fraternity/sorority groups. I have seen some awful Masons, but Ive seen awful Kappas, Deltas, Omegas, etc. Every organization has an impact, even this one. Vets would rather hire vets first because we go through similar situations. Masons are no different. If you "know someone who knows someone", then count yourself as fortunate, not privileged.

<p>SGT Menzie - YOU have personally witnessed people use this to get ahead?&nbsp; Or maybe, you percieved their affiliations getting them ahead?&nbsp;&nbsp;I am confused...Often, when one does not have first hand information, stories get construed.&nbsp; You know this as an NCO.&nbsp; As far as other letting them use the fraternal ties to "get ahead", re-read my comment if you come to me with that mess.&nbsp; I can only hold myself accountable on how I represent my organization.&nbsp; Now, if I witness it...I will hold those like me accountable and do my part to give them good, wholesome advice and I will leave them to make their own choices...but I will not standby and allow them to misrepresent my fraternity, or its values, to simply get ahead.&nbsp; Often is said...From the outside looking in, you can't explain it to me.&nbsp; From the inside looking out, I can't explain to you.&nbsp; As far as becoming a Mason, that is a choice only you can make.&nbsp; Seek counsel and advice from those you hold in high regard.&nbsp; Ask them the hard questions, but do not be upset when you get the answer, as it may not be the one you want.&nbsp; </p>

I am an active mason and currently serving as well.

I am an active Mason, a Reservist, and a state Police Officer. My take on the "special favors" deal is this, because it's happened all to often; when someone asks me "are you going to do that? We are brothers!" I respond, " A real Mason would never ask a Brother to jeopardize his career and livelihood for something so trivial as a ticket, special favor, etc, it's about respecting the person you are dealing with".
That being said, I treat all Brothers as such, and deal with them squarely, no matter the situation.