Masonic Outreach Spring 2019 — Masonic Home of Missouri

Saying Thank You

Spring 2019

Mission & History In 1875, MWB John C. Ralls presented the idea of “a ‘Home’ for the indigent widows and minors (orphans) of worthy (deceased) Master Masons…to be located in some suitable and healthy place.”

Through the hard work of many, the Masonic Home incorporated in 1886 and opened the doors of the St. Louis Home to its first resident, a 12-year-old girl named Della Gale Farthing, in 1889.

The Home expanded into a full campus of service for indigent Masons and their families. The Masonic Home opened the Western Unit in Kansas City in 1986.

In 1991, the Board of Directors made the difficult decision to close the St. Louis facility and relocate the residents living there. But also in 1991, the Board created the Outreach Program, a financial assistance program that could reach qualified individuals in their communities.

In 2011, the Board of Directors also sold the Western Unit to focus 100 percent of its efforts on the Outreach Programs.

Outreach expanded from one program to 10, each satisfying a slightly different need throughout the Masonic Family. Three provide financial assistance to Masons, their wives or widows, ladies of the Eastern Star, and their dependent children. Three Partnership Programs partner with Lodges and Chapters throughout the state to provide for needy children, help their fellow brothers and sisters with a project, help send veterans on Honor Flights, and give care packages to active military. The final four programs are non-financial, serving the membership through financial education, honoring Masonic widows and veterans, and providing information on community resources.

We encourage you to check us out on our website at www.mohome.org, give us a call at 800-434-9804, or stop in and tour the Masonic Museum at the Masonic Complex in Columbia.

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MAIN CONTACT INFORMATION Masonic Home of Missouri 6033 Masonic Drive, Suite A Columbia, MO 65202 573-814-4663 Phone 800-434-9804 Toll Free 573-814-4660 Fax Website: www.mohome.org Masonic Complex hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Closed for state and federal holidays Masonic Museum hours: (located at Masonic Complex in Columbia, MO) Monday through Friday 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Executive Director Barbara Ramsey bramsey@mohome.org | Ext. 209 Director of Finance & Fund Development Jodi Blake jblake@mohome.org | Ext. 212 Public Relations Shannon Beck sbeck@mohome.org | Ext. 245

FUND DEVELOPMENT

Truman Club & Vincil Society, Courtyard Paver Stones, Penny-A-Day, General Donations Julie Kirchhoff, Annual Giving Officer jkirchhoff@mohome.org | Ext. 230 Legacy Society, Planned Giving, Major Gift Donations Jackie Walters, Major Gifts Officer jwalters@mohome.org | Ext. 214

MASONIC HOME PROGRAMS

Long-Term Financial Assistance Dana Morgenthaler, Financial Assistance Caseworker danam@mohome.org | Ext. 211 Donna Purdy Merry, Financial Assistance Caseworker dmerry@mohome.org | Ext. 218 Short-Term Financial Assistance, Financial Education, Children’s Outreach Carly Dibben, Accredited Financial Counselor cdibben@mohome.org | Ext. 217 Allyson Reynolds, Financial Assistance Caseworker areynolds@mohome.org | Ext. 219 Creating-A-Partnership (CAP) & Partnering To Honor (PTH) Letitia “Tisha” Woodard, Partnership Coordinator twoodard@mohome.org | Ext. 210 Widows & Veterans Programs, Masonic Family Cares Program Chantana Irvin, Masonic Family Cares Coordinator cirvin@mohome.org | Ext. 239 Museum & Masonic Complex Calendar Michelle Phillippe, Administrative Office Coordinator mphillippe@mohome.org | Ext. 213

CONTENTS

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4

Executive Director Notes

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A Worldwide Mason

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Honoring Their Impact

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Veterans Program

14

Service During the Great War

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The VA Loan Process

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No Man Left Behind

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Preventing Veteran Suicide

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Resources Available to Veterans

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What’s in the Numbers?

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Calendar of Events

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR NOTES

T

his edition of Masonic Outreach is all about veterans, and it highlights the Masonic Home’s Veterans Program. The Masonic Home created the Veterans Program to recognize and thank our Masonic veterans. This year we decided to change the Veterans Program. Instead of simply mailing a pin to our veterans, we wanted to publicly honor and thank them.

The Masonic Home started to fly the flag of the Grand Lodge of Missouri, A.F. & A.M., at the Masonic Complex in honor of our Masonic veterans.

Once a flag has been flown, it is carefully folded and placed in a case. This special flag, along with the Veteran’s pin and a certificate, is then presented to the veteran.

I hope you will take a moment to read the article about the changes to the Veterans Program. I would like to say a special THANK YOU to Emmett Bryson and Richard Kaeser, Jr. When we were working through the idea of flag presentations in the lodges, it was determined that we needed a special ceremony to accompany them. RWB Bryson and RWB Kaeser agreed to help the Masonic Home with this important task by creating the memorable ceremony now used to honor Masonic veterans.

I would also like to say thank you to Daniel Boone DeMolay Chapter! The young men featured on the cover of this magazine gave part of their Saturday to come fly flags at the Masonic Complex, then presented the flags to the veterans at Wentzville Lodge No. 46. Their gift of time for this program is greatly appreciated!

As we prepared this issue, we considered various covers for the magazine. The obvious choice was a cover that featured a veteran, but I saw this cover and knew it was perfect. A co-worker commented that the picture was joyful. Now, every time I look at this cover I cannot help but smile. This is a photo of young men giving their time to honor those who willingly sacrificed everything to protect us all. Please join us in saying thank you to our honored Veterans.

Mission Statement

To assist eligible adults and children in need by practicing the principles of Freemasonry.

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GIVING

A Worldwide Mason Major Thomas A. Spencer has given his time and treasure to Masonic organizations all over the world.

By Brenna McDermott

Traveling the World

Maj. Thomas A. Spencer didn’t necessarily grow up longing to be a Mason.

Born in San Diego, California, in 1934, he grew up amongst the citrus groves of Chula Vista just north of the Mexican border.

His father was Master of the local Lodge and his mother Worthy Matron of the local Chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star.

“I used to have to sweep the floor of the lodge dining room when I was a little kid,” he remembers.

From Citrus Groves to Service

It was a small, rural town, so he knew most of the members of the Lodge. The secretary of the Lodge lived seven houses away from Spencer’s home. Many past masters of the Lodge owned the lemon groves he and his father worked in.

Despite his floor sweeping days, he didn’t show an interest in being involved.

“I didn’t join DeMolay; I was working too much to join it,” Spencer said.

As he became a young man, the citrus industry in Chula Vista began its demise, giving way to housing for the people who had flocked there after World War II and the Korean War. There wasn’t enough work, so after Spencer graduated high

Major Thomas A. Spencer

school he left town to first work for the U.S. Post Office for three years in a town to the south.

To avoid the draft, he enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1956. He eventually went to officer candidate school, was commissioned as a lieutenant in the infantry, and retired from the Army after 40 years with the rank of Major.

It was in 1962 that his mother convinced him to join Chula Vista Lodge No. 626 while he was home on leave.

“My mother said it would make my father happy if I joined, and I said, ‘Ok, I’ll join if it’ll make Dad happy.’ And that was the reason I joined,” Spencer said.

Spencer spent three years in Vietnam, two years in South Korea, five years in Germany, and two years in France where he met his wife, Beverly, who was in the U.S. Air Force. He was also stationed at various posts in the United States including Fort Ord, Fort Lewis, Fort Jackson, Fort Benning, and Fort Bliss.

He didn’t enter the Army thinking he would become a career military man. Initially, he planned to return to his work with the post office.

“My whole life was an evolution, I guess,” he said.

The five years he spent in Germany were his favorites in the Army, Spencer said. He enjoyed the scenic mountain views.

He was also heavily involved in Masonry while stationed there, serving as Charter Master of Oregon Military Lodge No. 936 in Frankfurt in 1975.

His father was proud, Spencer remembers.

“He took part in my degrees.

He was active as Master when I was initiated, and he worked with me,” Spencer said. “He was present when I was installed as Master in Germany, he flew over to be present at my installation as Master. It made him happy.”

The experience of Masonry is quite different in Europe from that of the U.S. experience.

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GIVING

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For one, the lodges were smaller and more intimate, he remembers, and there was more companionship and fellowship with brothers.

“They’re not interested so much in total members, as they are in having members that are compatible with each other, that get along well and socialize,” Spencer said.

He retired from the Army in 1976 while stationed in Germany with a Silver Star, six Valor awards, and a Purple Heart.

He and Beverly headed back to the States, where she had several job offers waiting.

“And I told her, ‘wherever you want to go to support me, that’s where I’ll go,’” Spencer said.

They chose Fort Worth, Texas, where Spencer still lives today.

Spencer worked for the U.S. Government in the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers as a management analyst and an emergency planner.

He and Beverly ran a real estate, accounting, and investment management business.

Beverly passed away in 1983 in an accident.

Giving Time and Treasure

Spencer has been committed to Masonry through the years.

Today, he serves on the Fort Worth Scottish Rite Education Committee; leads the Arlington Masonic Study Club; and is assistant librarian at the Arlington Masonic Lodge.

Installation as Master of Oregon Military Lodge #223 Frankfort, Germany

Beverly & Tom at the Rainbow Installation of her niece in Nebraska 1978

Spencer has donated to Masonic organizations all over the country, like the Grand Lodge of Montana, where his uncle was a past Master; the Grand Lodge of California; and the Masonic Home of Missouri.

His maternal grandmother was born outside of Columbia, Missouri.

He is a member of the Masonic Home's Truman Club at the J.C. Penney Society level. He set a personal goal to reach the Harry S. Truman Society, whose members have given $250,000.

“I want to leave the country… better than what it was when I got here if I can,” he said. “Sometimes I wonder if that’s even possible.

But the Masonic organizations that I’ve donated to seem to be better organized at doing what they do than a lot of the other organizations.

“They seem to do a better job of taking care of people.”

He attended a Grand Lodge of Missouri dinner where he heard about the Masonic Home of Missouri.

“They were doing things closer to what made sense to me,” he said. He’s passionate about the financial outreach the Masonic Home provides to brothers, which focuses on education and solving financial challenges.

Masonic Home’s evolution from a physical refuge to helping people stay in their own homes is something that makes sense to him.

“It’s a more modern thing, because nobody wants to move from Springfield, Missouri to Kansas City or St. Louis when they retire or need to move into a home,” he said. “They don’t want to go so far away from their roots.”

With ties to Masonry all over the world, Spencer still exchanges letters with some of his brothers in Germany.

“We’ve stayed in contact because they were just good people,” he said. “I’d say that was the greatest impact Masonry has had on me, meeting what I’d consider good people and making good friends.”

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LEGACY

Honoring Their Impact

E

ach one of us has a legacy to leave, and we may never truly know the effect that we had on those around us. The Square & Compass Courtyard at the Masonic Complex is one way to capture that legacy.

The Courtyard is dedicated to honoring and memorializing those who are important to us, while supporting the mission of the Masonic Home of Missouri.

Purchasing an engraved paver stone is a great way to pay tribute to your Masonic loved one and show your support for the Masonic Home.

The actions of some, like our beloved veterans, affect all Americans and countless others around the globe. Those who served during times of conflict or during times of peace deserve our respect and unending appreciation.

Our freedom is the direct result of their dedication, bravery, and sacrifice. We truly are the home of the free, because of the brave.

Take the unique opportunity today to allow their legacy to live on by having a granite paver stone engraved in their honor.

Consider having a granite paver stone engraved in the Square & Compass Courtyard.

Numerous events are held at the Complex each year by Masonic, Eastern Star and non-Masonic

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groups, providing an opportunity for thousands of individuals to view the lovely Courtyard and all of the individuals, lodges, chapters, and businesses honored there.

Contact Julie Kirchhoff at 800434-9804 today, and see your stone in September when you visit the Courtyard at our Open House.

PROGRAM SPOTLIGHT

Veterans Program How the Masonic Home, local Masonic lodges and DeMolay chapters are partnering to honor our veterans

By Brenna McDermott Masonic Outreach

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PROGRAM SPOTLIGHT

W

hen a veteran is presented with a flag from the Masonic Home of Missouri, he’s receiving more than just a flag.

It’s a recognition of his sacrifices and a connection to not only his fellow Masons, but also the people across the country supporting the Masonic Home and the young men in DeMolay 10

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Chapters across Missouri.

Since launched in 2015, the Masonic Home’s veteran recognition program has evolved into connecting these groups and providing meaningful experiences to the veterans it recognizes.

A MEANINGFUL PRESENTATION When the Veterans Program began, the Masonic Home mailed a special lapel pin to each veteran in addition to mailing cards each year on Veteran’s Day and Armed Forces Day. In fiscal year 2018, the

Earnest West is escorted to the altar by Masonic Home Board President Stan Brown to be presented with his flag by his nephew, current Grand Master of West’s home lodge, Wakanda Lodge No. 52. West retired from the Airforce in 1968.

Fifteen veterans were honored at Wentzville Lodge No. 46 in late March. The veterans were joined by Masonic youth, including members of Daniel Boone DeMolay Chapter, who flew flags in honor of these veterans.

Masonic Home recognized 1,650 veterans. But the Masonic Home team felt there was an opportunity to do more.

The Masonic Home decided to create an opportunity for veterans to be honored for their service publicly instead of just receiving private recognition in the mail.

Now, any lodge in Missouri can schedule a Veterans recognition ceremony created by the Masonic Home.

Each veteran can now be honored while standing in front of his Masonic brothers, families and friends. As part of that ceremony, they each receive a Grand Lodge of Missouri flag flown at the Masonic Complex, a Masonic veterans pin and a certificate.

In order to create a cohesive and meaningful ceremony, Emmett Bryson and Rick Kaeser wrote a script incorporating Masonic elements to be used in each ceremony no matter where a

Masonic veteran is being honored in the state of Missouri.

It’s a way for the lodges and the Masonic Home to work together to recognize and thank the men who have defended our country and the sacrifices they have made.

Acacia-Twilight Lodge No.

114 hosted the first ceremony in November 2018, which honored 11 of its veterans, followed by Ivanhoe Lodge No. 446, Wakanda Lodge No. 52 and Wentzville Lodge No. 46.

Bill Alvord was one of 15 veterans honored at the Wentzville ceremony.

“It was a very moving tribute to our Masonic veterans, and it was an honor to have been invited and attend,” Alvord said. “I will certainly wear the pin with pride and display my flag and certificate on the wall in my office at home.”

Wakanda Lodge recognized an individual veteran, Earnest West.

West, a veteran of the U.S. Navy, served from 1947 to 1968. He lives out of state but returned to his Lodge to receive his 50-year pin. His nephews are active in the Wakanda Lodge, serving as Worshipful Master and Secretary.

The two, along with Masonic Home Board President Stanton T. Brown II, conducted West’s ceremony.

Acacia-Twilight Lodge No. 114 hosted the first flag presentation ceremony in November 2018. The lodge honored 11 Masonic veterans that night.

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PROGRAM SPOTLIGHT

A 1919 copy of the DeMolay ritual book contains its original 9 O’clock prayer, which included the Masonic Home of Missouri.

THE SYMBOL OF THE FLAG The Home staff started flying the flags that would be used in the veteran ceremonies in October 2018 at the Masonic Complex in Columbia, Missouri.

The flags were then folded and sealed in preparation for the presentations.

But the program did not stop there. During this time, the Masonic Home had been looking for ways to better connect with Masonic youth organizations.

They wanted to incorporate those young people into the veterans ceremony, so the flags for the Wentzville ceremony were flown by a special group of young men.

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May these tokens of our appreciation always remind you that we... as a fraternity... will never forget the sacrifices you have made for your country and for all of us.

—Flag Ceremony

Three members of the Daniel Boone Chapter of DeMolay visited the Masonic Complex on a Saturday and flew 12 flags that would be presented at Wentzville Lodge No. 46.

Then, those same young men participated in the presentation of the flags.

Their involvement in the ceremony brought DeMolay’s and the Masonic Home’s relationship full circle. The original version of DeMolay’s 9 O’Clock Prayer was recently discovered. That original prayer referenced the men, women and children who were living at the once physical residence the Masonic Home of Missouri provided.

The original version of the prayer is included in a copy of the first edition DeMolay ritual book published in 1919. One of two known copies is preserved at DeMolay International Headquarters in Kansas City.

This program has provided an opportunity for renewed connections between the Masonic Home and DeMolay.

HONOR THE VETERANS IN YOUR LODGE The veterans presentation is an honor each and every Masonic veteran should receive. The Masonic Home encourages any Lodge and DeMolay Chapter to participate in this special experience honoring Missouri’s Masonic veterans.

“It’s exciting to see how this program is impacting veterans,” Masonic Home Executive Director Barbara Ramsey said. “Making this program a public presentation has

“America was not built on fear. America was built on courage, on imagination and an unbeatable determination to do the job at hand.” —Harry S. Truman

been a really important change.”

The ceremony is truly meaningful to the veterans who experience it. Paul Whatley served in the U.S. Navy and was recently honored at his Lodge. “It was truly an honor being recognized by the Masonic Home of Missouri in my lodge as a Veteran,” Whatley said.

Flags can also be presented to those veterans who are homebound and unable to attend Lodge events.

Lodges interest in holding a flag presentation for their veterans and DeMolay Chapters interested in flying flags may contact Shannon Beck at sbeck@mohome.org or 800434-9804.

Thank you Daniel Boone DeMolay Chapter!

The young men of Daniel Boone DeMolay Chapter in Wentzville recently volunteered their time to help fly flags in honor of Masonic Veterans at the Masonic Complex.

We appreciate your time and dedication to helping us honor the veterans of Wentzville Lodge No. 46.

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MUSEUM MOMENT

Service During The Great War

By Barbara Ramsey

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J

ames William Skelly was born April 14, 1873, in Audrain County, Missouri.

His father, John Skelly, from Franklin County, Pennsylvania, fought as a private in the Union Army. His father and mother, Clementina M. Weilder, came to Missouri in 1863. Skelly’s father passed away when he was only 13 years old, leaving behind his wife and six children.

Brother Skelly received a public education in Audrain County schools. He attended the University of Missouri and graduated with a bachelor's degree in 1896 and a civil engineering degree in 1898. While at the university, he served four years as a military cadet.

Upon graduating with his bachelor’s degree, Brother Skelly went to work for the Mississippi River Commission. His work involved river improvement and surveying; design of steel steamboats and barges; machinery of hydraulic dredges; preparation of reports, maps and drawings; topographer and transitman on railroad location and construction; and surveys, estimates, and plans for levee systems for the protection of land from overflow. He was a member of the American Society of Civil Engineers. He married Pearl Smith on December 13, 1899, in Mexico, Missouri. They had two children, Gladys Gertrude and Frank Howard.

Brother Skelly was initiated an Entered Apprentice in Laddonia Lodge No. 115, at Laddonia, Missouri, February 16, 1900, passed April 7, 1900, (courtesy,

MWB James W. Skelly

Missouri Lodge No. 1), his being the last degree conferred in the Old Freemasons’ Hall at Seventh and Market Streets in St. Louis; was raised April 27, 1900 (courtesy, Missouri Lodge No. 1).

Brother Skelly would affiliate with Tuscan Lodge No. 360 on April 16, 1901, and he served as Worshipful Master in 1913.

A year later, a series of events would change the world forever. On June 28, 1914, the Archduke Franz Ferdinand of the Austro-Hungarian Empire was assassinated in Sarajevo. One month later, Austria-Hungary declared war on Serbia. World War I begins.

The United States of America would watch the war unfold as it tried to remain neutral. The resolve to stay neutral would be tested on May 7, 1915 when a German U-boat torpedoed the Lusitania. Among

the 1,198 victims that drowned were women, children, and 128 U.S. citizens. There was worldwide outrage, and the Germans agreed to end their unlimited warfare on passenger ships.

In January 1917, Germany resumed their unrestricted U-boat campaign after making the calculated decision that cutting off and starving Britain would end the war before the United States could mobilize to make a difference. The United States responded on February 3 by cutting all diplomatic relations with Germany. Nine days later, at the age of 44 with 21 years of experience in engineering, Brother Skelly was commissioned Captain of Engineers, U.S. Reserves.

On March 1, 1917, the United States is alerted about the Zimmermann telegram. In the decoded message, German Foreign Minister Arthur Zimmermann promised the return of Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona to Mexico as a reward for siding with Germany, if the U.S. enters the war. One month later, a German U-boat sinks the Aztec without warning, killing 28 Americans.

A month later, President Wilson delivers his war message in a historic joint session of the House and Senate. On April 6, 1917, the United States declared war on Germany. However, the United States had a very limited army of only 133,000 men with almost no heavy artillery pieces.

Upon entry to the war, British and French commissions arrived in Washington. They recognized Masonic Outreach

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MUSEUM MOMENT

12th Engineers at Camp Gaillard, St. Louis, Missouri, July 1917

it would take America time to mobilize an army, so their initial request was for engineering units to build and maintain railway lines to supply the Western Front.

The War Department granted that request, and in early May, railway engineer regiments began to organize in major cities across the United States. Colonel Townsend is responsible for the regiment stationed in St. Louis opening recruiting offices in St. Louis, Kansas City, and later in

Dallas. On May 8, 1917, Captain Skelly is ordered into active duty, becoming part of the 12th Engineers in St. Louis as the Regimental Supply Officer.

One of the first obstacles that Captain Skelly must overcome is finding a location in St. Louis large enough to accommodate housing the regiment with grounds for drilling. Captain Skelly solved this problem by locating land along the river that could be used for drilling. He then

secured 14 government quarter boats on the Mississippi River to house the men.

Captain Skelly’s struggles did not end with securing adequate housing for the camp. The men that came to the camp were not soldiers. They did not bring with them uniforms or guns. There was a great scarcity of uniforms, so much so, that no extra pants, shirts, or shoes could be given to the soldiers. The only extra items available were socks and

WWI Timeline 1914

June 28

Archduke Franz Ferdinand of the AustroHungarian Empire is assassinated in Sarajevo. The Austrian government suspects that Serbia is responsible.

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1914

July 28

Austria-Hungary declares war on Serbia. WWI begins.

1914

August 1

Germany declares war on Russia.

Germany and Turkey sign an alliance.

France mobilizes to support Russia.

1914

August 2

Germany invades Luxembourg.

August 3

Germany declares war on France.

1914

August 4

Germany declares war on Belgium.

Britain declares war on Germany. U.S. proclaims neutrality.

underclothes. In addition, the arms and equipment were old, having been used in the SpanishAmerican war.

Despite their limited training and provisions, the 12th Engineers left St. Louis for New York.

On July 28, 1917, the regiment embarked on the R.M.S. Carmania along with the 17th Engineers, docking at Liverpool, England on August 12, 1917.

Three days later, the 12th Engineers would make history as part of the troops that paraded

1914

August 10

France declares war on Austria-Hungary.

August 11

Montenegro declares war on Germany.

through London streets past King George V and Queen Alexandra.

It was an emotional day for the soldiers as they received an enormously warm welcome from the crowd. However, each step also brought with it the cries of “avenge my husband’s death” or “avenge my son’s death.” As the soldiers marched, there was also the realization that the crowd only contained women, children, and maimed men. This would be the first realization for the soldiers of the war’s toll. The American

1914

August 12

Britain declares war on Austria-Hungary.

1914

August 23

Germany invades France. AustriaHungary invades Russian Poland.

Japan declares war on Germany.

soldiers would later recall: “August 15, 1917, is assured a prominent place in English and American history, as the premier appearance of American troops in London.

Not since the year 1066, the time of William the Conqueror, had the streets of London rung with the tramp of armed foreign forces.

The Twelfth is justly proud of leading this historic march.”1 The 12th Engineers were among the earliest American troops to arrive in the war. They arrived before most of the American

1914

August 27

Austria-Hungary declares war on Belgium.

October 31

1914

December 25 Spontaneous Christmas Truce observed on Western Front.

Japan attacks German-held Tsingtao, China.

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MUSEUM MOMENT army, so on August 15, the engineers were transferred from American to British control.

Shortly after the transition, the 12th Engineers were on their way to France.

The 12th Engineers were transported to France with the 14th Engineers divided between the Australind and the Antrim.

When they inquired as to why two transports were necessary when they all would fit in one, the answer from the British officer left them wishing they had not asked.

“That is done,” he said, “in crossing the Channel to Boulogne, so that if one boat is torpedoed and lost, there will still remain of each organization sufficient mourners to tell what a damn fine bunch the others had been and incidentally there will remain the nucleus of a new organization.”2 Upon their safe arrival, the 12th Engineers were taken to the Somme battle front. The English, French, and Germans had been fighting at Somme for three years.

At the end of the war, the Somme battlefield would have some of

12th Engineers on parade in London, England, August 1917

the most horrific death counts in the war. The British lost 419,000 men, the French lost 194,000, and the Germans lost 650,000.

The newly arrived Americans were struck by the shear devastation and would have sleepless nights as the sounds of continuous battle on the frontlines were only five miles away. Captain Skelly immediately went to work to procure bell tents

from the British 3rd Army.

By October 1917, the 12th Engineers were in full swing on the operation and maintenance of the railways extending from Cambrai to St. Quentin. By November, the British army went on offense and the famous Hindenburg Line was broken on a 20-mile front. Within a few days, the engineers had the light railways built across “no

WWI Timeline 1915

February 4

Germany warns that neutral vessels in Britain would be destroyed prior to possible warning to the crew and passengers.

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1915

April 22

Second Battle of Ypres, the Germans open the assault with a chlorine gas attack. The first use of poison gas on Western Front.

1915

May 7

German U-Boat torpedoes the Lusitania, 128 Americans drown.

1915

July 9

German Forces in South-West Africa surrender to General Botha of South Africa.

1915

October 6

Serbia is invaded by Germany, Austria, and Bulgaria.

King George V and Queen Alexandra observing members of the 12th Engineers on parade

man’s land” to the German Light Railway System. However, a few days later the Germans launched a counter offensive. The offensive was so effective and wire communication was so quickly destroyed that information on the enemy’s progress did not reach the engineers.

“Thus it was, that the first Americans fought in the world war. Caught without arms, they

1916

March 24

Passenger ship Sussex is torpedoed and President Wilson threatens to break relations with Germany.

fought with whatever they had at hand, where possible, picking up a fallen British comrade’s rifle, or getting one from a dead Hun.” “The Eleventh engineers suffered heavily in killed, wounded, and captured. The Twelfth did not lose a single man, and began to be called “The Lucky Twelfth.” 3 The 12th Engineers spent their first Christmas in France.

Although the battlefront

1916

April 22

Belgians deported to Germany as forced labor.

1916

May 10

Germany again calls off unrestricted submarine warfare to keep America from entering the war.

remained relatively quiet, Italian forces had collapsed and Russia was in a state of disintegration.

This enabled the enemy to move many of its eastern troops into France. Intelligence gained from prisoners confirmed that the western front was being strengthened.

The long expected battle – the Somme Defensive – would begin in March “with an artillery duel of a magnitude that dwarfed to insignificance the demonstration before Cambrai.” The army retreated from March 21-25.

This would mark the end of the 12th Regiments first section of light railway work. It would take extensive effort by the entire regiment to withdraw troops and materials. “The work during that period will always be a credit to the officers and men who performed it, as well as to the Engineer Corps of the United States Army. The difficulties surmounted from the 21st to the 25th required almost superhuman efforts.”4 July 4, 1918 the Twelfth Engineers were recognized for their work during the Somme

1917

January

Germans resume unrestricted U-Boat campaign.

February 3

U.S. severs diplomatic relations with Germany.

1917

March 1

The Zimmermann telegram.

March 11

British enter Baghdad – Turks have abandoned the city.

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MUSEUM MOMENT Defensive. Captain Skelly was awarded the British Military Cross for distinguished work during the evacuation of Montigny. The following was stated about Captain Skelly: “Showed great courage and diligence while personally directing evacuation of Light Railway stores and equipment during retirement. On March 22, 1918, Captain Skelly went back with a party of men under very heavy fire and removed the last truck load of stores shortly before the enemy entered the camp.”5 It was not lost upon the British or the Americans that the recognition and honors bestowed upon the regiment were done on America’s Independence Day. General Buckland of the British Army closed the ceremony with: “One hundred and forty-two years ago today, the American Colonies put forth their Declaration of Independence and for six years after that, until 1781, they fought stubbornly against England in defense of the principles of Liberty and Freedom. During those years of trial and suffering, the fortunes

of war fluctuated from side to side, but their fight for a principle was finally rewarded by a glorious victory. Since that time history has demonstrated

The 12th Engineers had been among the first 25,000 American troops in France. By the time the Armistice was signed there were roughly 300,000 men per month landing in France. that America was right and England was wrong.”

“The present war has lasted nearly four years, and no one can say when it will end; but it

is significant that in this war England and America are fighting side by side in defense of the same principle for which your forefathers fought in 1776. And just as that principle finally prevailed then, so will it also prevail in this war.” 6 Toward the end of July, the 12th Engineers received orders indicating that they would be detached from the British Army to go under the command of the United States Army. The engineers were once again moved to start their next phase in the St. Mihiel Offensive and the Toul Sector.

By November 10, 1918, the American army was ready to go on the offensive. The light railway engineers were preparing to connect the lines once “no man’s land” was crossed, but November 11 came with a shock. The Armistice was signed and with it the end of hostilities. Following the Armistice, the engineers went back to work. They constructed the necessary lines to cross into what had been enemy territory.

They repaired and restored the lines that had been destroyed

WWI Timeline 1917

1917

April 1

April 6

April 2

June 5

German U-Boat sinks the Aztec, 28 Americans drown.

President Wilson delivers war message to joint session of the House and Senate.

20

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United States declares war on Germany.

First day of the draft — 9,586,508 men ages 21 to 31 register at local draft boards.

1917

1917

General Pershing greets the first infantry men and engineers to land in France.

British tanks gain victory at Cambrai, 10 days later the Germans counterattack regaining most ground lost.

June 25

November 20

1917

December 9

British capture Jerusalem from the Turks.

either by bombs or deliberate demolition. They maintained the lines for the Third Army to move into Belgium.

The 12th Engineers had been among the first 25,000 American troops in France. By the time the Armistice was signed, there were roughly 300,000 men per month landing in France. The 12th Engineers would continue their work for an additional three months when they were finally relieved from duty and sent back to the United States two months later. When the men finally arrived in St. Louis, they were greeted with a hero’s welcome.

The St. Louis Star included the following comments in their editorial column: “The 12th Regiment of the Engineers, which St. Louis now welcomes home, was under German fire for a longer period than any other unit this city sent to France, and it was engaged under the most adverse conditions experienced by the Allies during the last two years of war. That its losses were moderate was due not to the absence of danger but to pure

1918

March 3

Treaty of BrestLitovsk is signed with Germany setting harsh terms for Russia.

October 6

Germany request Armistice; Allies refuse.

MWB James W. Skelly, 1953

luck-the reverse of the luck which caused the 11th Engineers working beside the St. Louis Regiment, to be slashed to pieces during the German onslaught of a year ago.” 7 In February 1919, Skelly had been promoted to Major. Major Skelly was released from active service in May 1919, but retained his Commission as a Reserve Officer, advancing to Colonel. He retired in 1937. The 12th Engineers

1918

1918

were recognized for participating in the following battles in France against Germany: Somme Sector, Cambrai Offensive, Cambrai Defensive, Somme Defensive, North Picardy Sector, Baccarat Sector, St. Mihiel Offensive, Meuse-Argonne Offensive, and Toul Sector.

After the war, Skelly returned to his work with the river commission until December 1922, when he began what would be

1919

October 17

November 11

January 4

November 10

December 1

February 14

Hungary separates from Austria.

Austria accepts truce terms.

Germany signs Armistice.

Yugoslavia proclaimed an independent state.

Peace conference convenes in Paris.

Proposed constitution for the League of Nations is announced.

1919

March 15

Final draft of Peace Treaty is presented to President Wilson.

June 28

Germany and the Allied and Associated Powers sign the Treaty of Versailles.

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MUSEUM MOMENT

M. W. Grand Master James Skelly and Gen. John J. Pershing at the Cornerstone Laying of the High School at Laclede, Mo. May 2, 1936

his labor of love as well as his vocation - he became Secretary of the Scottish Rite Bodies in St. Louis, a position he held for 12 years. MWB Skelly was a member of all the York and Scottish Rite bodies, serving as high priest of the St. Louis Chapter No. 8, Royal Arch Masons in 1923 and being invested with the Knight Commander of the Court of Honor in 1921 and coroneted a 33 degree member of the Scottish Rite in October 1925. MWB Skelly became Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Missouri, A.F. & A.M., 1935-1936.

During his time on the Advancing Line to the office of Grand Master, Skelly served with MWB Forest C. Donnell, a fellow University of Missouri graduate, who would hold the office of Governor of Missouri during WWII, and MWB Harry S. Truman, a fellow WWI soldier, 22

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who would lead our country through the end of WWII. During his Masonic career, Skelly would also cross paths with General John J. Pershing, who commanded Truman during WWI and is known as one of America’s most influential military leaders.

Skelly lost his beloved wife, Pearl, on September 22, 1946.

Three years later, he married Mrs. Ruth Waldeck Tune. MWB Skelly passed away on August 15, 1967.

MWB Skelly’s Masonic and military careers are deserving of honor and recognition. His Masonic career is distinguished in its service to the Grand Lodge and the Scottish Rite, and his military career was the hallmark of leadership, courage, sacrifice, and honorable service.

MWB Skelly is one of many distinguished leaders that is featured in the Masonic Museum.

Plan a trip to visit the Museum at the Masonic Complex in Columbia today!

References: John Keegan, The First World War, New York: Vintage Books a Division of Random House, Inc., 1998.

John A. Laird, William W. Burden, Harry F. McFarland, Bruce E. Dolch, Charles A. Lieber, Sidney M. Skinner, History of the Twelfth Engineers U.S. Army, St. Louis: Buxton & Skinner, 1919. Online: Cornell University Library. Quotes from History of the Twelfth Engineers U.S. Army: (1) page 14, (2) page 26, (3) page 62, (4) pages 101-102, (5) Introduction, page XI, (6) page 121 (7) page 234 Proceedings of the Grand Lodge of Missouri, A.F. & A.M., 1967, Report of Committee on Necrology, page 132. www.theworldwar.org/explore/ interactive-wwi-timeline

FINANCIAL EDU

The VA Loan Process From getting preapproved to closing your loan.

By Tiffany Schmidt

B

uying a home can be a nerve-wracking experience – but it doesn’t have to be!

Whether you are looking to buy or refinance your home, as a veteran, understanding your VA loan benefits can get you started down the right path. Of course, finding the home loan best suited to your individual needs can be easier said than done. When it comes to VA loans, Veterans United Home Loans is the nation’s #1 VA lender, in terms of loan volume, according to the Department of Veterans Affairs. If you’re considering buying or refinancing a home, Veterans United has identified five fundamental steps to guide you smoothly through the process.

STEP 1: GET PREAPPROVED FOR A VA LOAN

Getting preapproved for a loan can be one of the most intimidating, yet important, steps in the home buying process. Not only does preapproval give you a clear idea of your purchasing power, but it shows sellers and agents that you’re serious about buying. To become preapproved, you must

submit your application to a lender of choice for review of your credit, income, and military service.

STEP 2: THE REAL ESTATE MARKET

Once you are preapproved, it is critical that you find a real estate agent who is well versed in VA loans. Traversing benefits can be tricky, so finding an agent who can help you get the most out of your benefits can make the entire process smoother and financially fulfilling.

Veterans United offers Veterans United Realty, a national network of agents who have experience with the needs of veterans. It is important to note that VA loans are for purchasing a primary residence where you plan to live full-time.

STEP 3: GETTING UNDER CONTRACT

When you’ve found the perfect place, it’s time to make an offer.

During the VA appraisal process, the home is assessed according to the Minimum Property Requirements.

While the VA doesn’t require that buyers have a home inspection done, it’s a smart idea as an inspection is much more in-depth than the Minimum Property Requirements assessment. Your agent and lender

will walk you through the closing costs before making the offer, and once you and the seller have settled in negotiations, a contract can be drawn up.

STEP 4: VA LOAN UNDERWRITING

Once you are under contract, your loan team will send the appropriate documentation to be processed and underwritten, and order the appraisal through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

When the appraisal is complete, you will be “clear to close,” and one step away from owning a home.

STEP 5: CLOSING ON THE VA LOAN

A closing disclosure will be issued shortly before the VA loan closes. The document compares and examines final closing costs and your loan agreement and estimates. Your loan officer usually reviews this document with you. After a final walk through of the home, all that’s left to do is sign the paperwork and get the keys to your new home!

For more information on the home loan process please call 1-877-6296992, or visit veteransunited.com Masonic Outreach

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AGENCY SPOTLIGHT

24

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No Man Left Behind Welcome Home offers at-risk veterans a new lease on life.

By Tiffany Schmidt Meet Sam. Sam is a Navy veteran who returned home to find himself consumed by confusion, anger, pain, and sadness. When the emotional stress became too much, Sam buckled and an alcohol addiction took over his life. He lost his family, his job, and his identity.

Sam was just one of over 600 homeless veterans in the state of Missouri. When looking at the total homeless population in the United States, one third of the population is made up of veterans. Like Sam, many other veterans struggle on a day-to-day basis to maintain a stable lifestyle.

It is not uncommon for veterans to return from active duty and find themselves struggling with mental, physical, or emotional disabilities.

These factors often lead to an instability in housing and employment. Welcome Home is a nonprofit organization dedicated to honoring and supporting at-risk veterans.

The Welcome Home staff and volunteers believe that the “no man left behind” sentiment extends beyond the battlefield.

In fact, the organization was created around this idea when a Columbia-based group of Vietnam veterans heard about one of their brother-in-arms dying in the streets.

The founders invested their own money to open a shelter, and in 1992, Welcome Home was born. Welcome Home now has 34 beds for homeless veterans and families, which includes a separate corridor for female veterans. Once they have arrived at Welcome Home, it takes about 90 days before they are back on their feet.

In addition to transitional housing, Welcome Home provides rapid re-housing services for veterans. Through this program, veterans are provided the supportive services they need to get them into affordable housing, and the capacity to stay there.

To do so, Welcome Home provides job readiness training to help veterans find work that is fulfilling. The program, VETS Work, includes training, resume and interview prep, connection with local employers, and more.

The features in the program are tailored to each veteran’s individual needs.

Veteran and Board President of Welcome Home Terry Roberts explains the impact the organization has on the veterans they serve.

“From the first day they walk into Welcome Home, to 30 or 40 days later when they’re walking out, sometimes it's renting a place, sometimes it’s using a vehicle, or they buy a house. They go from homeless to receiving counseling services and help to get their benefits so now they have income to actually qualify to buy a house.”

In 2017, Welcome Home served 175 veterans; 80% of these vets achieved independent housing. The success of Welcome Home’s programming can be attributed to many factors, from the hardworking staff to the resources they provide, yet the community the nonprofit has created for struggling veterans in the area is perhaps the nonprofit’s greatest achievement, as it has offered veterans with the support they need to get back on track.

Welcome Home is a nonprofit organization.

To donate or volunteer your services, please visit welcomeveterans.org or call (573) 443-8001.

Testimonial photos and names have been changed to protect the privacy of our Veterans.

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HEALTH

Preventing Veteran Suicide Rates are higher and risk factors are greater.

By Shannon Beck

E

arlier this month, a veteran walked into the Veterans’ Affairs hospital in Austin, Texas and shot himself among the crowd in the waiting room, tragically ending his own life.

There were 21 other veterans who killed themselves on that day.

This came just eight days after a press release from the VA touted its continued dedication to addressing the issue of veteran suicide via its Governor’s Challenge. The agency’s statistics point to much more work needing to be done.

The VA’s latest report released in 2018 outlining the situation contains data from 2005-2016.

It shows that suicide among veterans was close to double the suicide rate of the non-veteran population in 2016 and that veterans between ages 18 and 35 are particularly vulnerable.

The suicide rate for nonveterans was 16.4 per 100,000, while it was 30.1 per 100,000 for veterans, and 45 per 100,000 for veterans age 18 to 35.

The reason veterans take their lives in higher numbers may be varied and complex, but the group does share some common risk factors.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, suicide risk factors include easy access to lethal methods, such as firearms, a history of mental disorders, like post-traumatic stress 26

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disorder, and barriers to accessing mental health treatment, which some critics say the organization of the VA health system contributes to.

“I bet if you look at the 22 suicides a day, you will see VA screwed up in 90%,” retired Marine Col. Jim Turner wrote in his suicide note. Turner, like the veteran in Austin whose name had not yet been released at the time of this publication’s writing, killed himself on the grounds of a VA hospital in December 2018.

According to the VA, 19 other veterans took their lives on a VA hospital property between October 2017 and November 2018.

According to a February Washington Post article, “The Parking Lot Suicides,” there is speculation that many of these deaths were a statement of protest.

“These suicides are sentinel events,” Eric Caine, director of the

“Let us strive… to care for him who shall have borne the battle and for his widow, and his orphan.”

—President Lincoln, 2nd Inaugural Address

Injury Control Research Center for Suicide Prevention at the University of Rochester said in the article. “It’s very important for the VA to recognize that the place of a suicide can have great meaning.

There is a real moral imperative and invitation here to take a close inspection of the quality of services at the facility level.”

The VA released its National Strategy for Preventing Veteran Suicide in 2018. The document is a public report outlining strategies the agency plans to implement over the next decade to fight the issue. The strategies largely concentrate on community efforts including the development of resources for veterans outside of the walls of VA hospitals.

“Suicide is a complex problem, and it requires coordinated, evidence-based solutions that reach beyond the traditional medical model of prevention.

Ensuring access to quality mental health services for those in need is one part of a broader solution, but not sufficient on its own,” wrote Dr. Carolyn Clancy, deputy under secretary for discovery, education, and affiliate networks for Veterans Health Administration in the preface of the document. “VA has embraced a comprehensive public health approach to reduce Veteran suicide rates, one that looks beyond the individual to involve peers, family members,

and the community. Yet we know we cannot do it alone, as roughly half of all Veterans in the U.S. do not receive services or benefits from VA.�

According to the strategy document, the VA plans to reach out to a number of community groups to reach at-risk veterans.

These include veteran and military service organizations, faith-based

2 0 1 6

organizations, non-profits, and media outlets.

The agency’s suicide prevention publications and materials feature messages encouraging safe gun storage and remind friends and family to be a positive support network, featuring the hashtag, #bethere.

It also offers a 24/7 veteran crisis line that can be reached by

phone at 800-272-8255, by chat at veteranscrisisline.net, or by texting 838255.

The CDC also recommends the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline that can be reached at 800-273-TALK or chat at suicidepreventionlifeline.org as a resource for those needing immediate assistance regardless of veteran status.

S T A T I S T I C S

The rate of suicide was times higher among female veterans

The rate of suicide was times higher among male veterans

compared with non-Veteran adult women

compared with non-veteran adult men

1.8

*after accounting for differences in age

69%

1.4

*after accounting for differences in age

of all veteran suicide deaths result from a firearm injury.

Male veterans ages

Male veterans ages

experienced the highest rates of suicide.

had the highest count of suicide.

18-34

55 and older

Confidential chat at VeteransCrisisLine.net or text to 838255

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IN THE NEWS

Resources Available to Veterans Asking for help isn’t easy. For veterans and their families, help is available and well-deserved.

CALL: 855-917-2743 EMAIL: TRANSITION@IAVA.ORG INFO: IAVA.ORG

GENERAL INFORMATION

HEALTH & INSURANCE

Missouri Resources: MO.GOV/VETERANS

U.S. Dept. of Veterans Affairs: VA.GOV OR 844-698-2311

Federal Benefits Guide:

VA.GOV/OPA/PUBLICATIONS/BENEFITS_ BOOK.ASP

Missouri Benefits & Resource Guide: MVC.DPS.MO.GOV/DOCS/

Crisis Line Offers free, confidential support 24/7. Don’t need to be registered with the VA or enrolled in VA health care.

CALL: 800-273-8255, PRESS 1 TEXT: 838255 CHAT: VETERANSCRISISLINE.NET

VA Medical Centers

COLUMBIA: 573-814-6000 KANSAS CITY: 816-861-4700 ST. LOUIS: 314-652-4100 POPLAR BLUFF: 573-686-4151 LEAVENWORTH, KS: 913-682-2000 FAYETTEVILLE, AR: 479-443-4301

Missouri Department of Mental Health Provides resources for service members, veterans, and their families.

DMH.MO.GOV/VETERANS/

VETERANS-BENEFITS-GUIDE.PDF

Veterans Service Officer Provides counseling and assistance with benefits questions, assists with VA applications, and advocates on your behalf.

573-751-3779 MVC.DPS.MO.GOV/SERVICE/ SERVICEOFFICER/

Women Veterans Service Program Ensures female veterans are aware of their VA benefits and have equitable access to federal and state veterans services.

573-265-3271 MVC.DPS.MO.GOV/SERVICE/WOMEN

IAVA Rapid Response Referral Program Provides veteran transition managers to act as transition navigators and advocates, getting veterans connected to the benefits they’ve earned and the resources they need. Accepts clients with all discharge statuses. Works with any and all U.S. veterans from any era, including peacetime veterans.

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Veterans Affairs Health Care Locations VA Medical Center Community Based Outpatient Clinic VA Health Care System Outpatient Clinic Vet Center VISN

HOUSING

Missouri Veterans Homes Provide long-term, skilled nursing care at homes located in Cameron, Cape Girardeau, Mexico, Mount Vernon, St. James, St. Louis, and Warrensburg.

573-751-3779 MVC.DPS.MO.GOV/HOMES/

Welcome Home A nonprofit organization dedicated to providing homeless or at-risk veterans with the resources they need to have residential stability, higher skill level, and source of income.

Provides rapid re-housing for struggling veterans in addition to traditional housing.

573-443-8001 WELCOMEVETERANS.ORG

National Call Center for Homeless Veterans Offers trained counselors to provide information on available local resources and assistance.

877-424-3838

Homeless Veteran Program Coordinators Are located at each Missouri VA Medical Center.

COLUMBIA: 573-814-6648 ST. LOUIS: 314-652-4100 EXT. 55459 ST. LOUIS: 317-652-4100 EXT. 55460 KANSAS CITY: 816-861-4700 EXT. 55412 POPLAR BLUFF: 573-778-4458 MT. VERNON: 417-466-4000 EXT. 61276 ALSO VISIT: VA.GOV/HOMELESS

Veterans United Home Loans Provides home loans for veterans, services members, and military families.

800-884-5560 VETERANSUNITED.COM

The First Place Program Gives first-time buyers and qualified veterans affordable interest rates and mortgage financing, as well as additional incentives to support veterans throughout the home buying process.

MHDC.COM/HOMES/FIRSTPLACELOANS

EMPLOYMENT

On-the-Job (OTJ) Training and Apprenticeship Offers training while on the job earning a wage.

888-442-4551 DESE.MO.GOV/ADULT-LEARNINGREHABILITATION-SERVICES/ VETERANS-EDUCATION/JOB-TRAININGAPPRENTICESHIP

Veterans' Employment and Training Services Provided to veterans and transitioning service members.

DOL.GOV/VETS/

The U.S. Small Business Administration Offers funding, training, and federal contracting opportunities to veterans who own or are seeking to own a business.

SBA.GOV/BUSINESS-GUIDE/GROWYOUR-BUSINESS/VETERAN-OWNEDBUSINESSES

Feds Hire Vets Is a federal employment program for veterans.

FEDSHIREVETS.GOV

Unemployment Compensation for Military Spouses Is potentially available for individuals who quit work to relocate due to their spouses’ military change of station.

LABOR.MO.GOV/MILITARYUI

TRAINING & EDUCATION

GI Bills Montgomery GI Bill offers veterans a monthly benefit while actively enrolled in school. Available for those who enlist in the U.S. Armed Forces.

Post-9/11 GI Bill provides financial support for education and housing to those with services after 9/11.

888-442-4551 GIBILL.VA.GOV

Missouri Returning Heroes Act Offers reduced tuition to Post-9/11 combat veterans.

800-473-6757 DHE.MO.GOV/PPC/ RETURNINGHEROESACT.PHP

Wartime Veterans' Survivor Grant Program Is available annually to the spouses and children of veterans whose deaths or injuries were a result of their time in service since 9/11.

800-473-6757 DHE.MO.GOV/PPC/GRANTS/ WARTIMEVETSURVIVOR.PHP

University of Missouri System Veterans Center Offers veterans assistance with educational benefits and opportunities.

573-884-4383 VETERANS.MISSOURI.EDU

Survivors and Dependents Assistance (DEA) Provides education and training to eligible dependents of certain veterans. Can be used for degree and certification programs, apprenticeships, and on-the-job training.

888-442-4551 GIBILL.VA.GOV

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WHAT’S IN THE NUMBERS?

19,602,312 living veterans as of 12/31/2018 (va.gov)

458,702

2,491

veterans living in Missouri

(Missouri Benefits & Resource Guide 2018-2019)

Missouri Masonic Veterans identified

305

lives touched through the Masonic Home’s Partnering To Honor Program

6

9.7%

of veterans are female, as of 12/31/18(va.gov)

VA Homeless Veteran program coordinators in Missouri

(Missouri Benefits & Resource Guide 2018-2019)

7

Veterans Homes in Missouri (Missouri Benefits & Resource Guide 20182019)

40,056 homeless veterans on any given night (U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development)

30

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1636 The Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) can trace its roots back to this year (va.gov)

43

flags presented through the Masonic Home’s Veterans Program

800 273 8255 (Press 1)

Veterans Crisis Line

(Missouri Benefits & Resource Guide 2018-2019)

EVENTS

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

MONDAY, JUNE 10 Masonic Home of Missouri's 17th Annual Charity Golf Tournament “Honoring Our Veterans” sponsored by Commerce Trust Company benefitting the Masonic Home Partnership Programs Columbia Country Club, Columbia, MO SATURDAY, AUGUST 31 Gift deadline for 2019 Vincil Society and Truman Club recognition SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 21 Truman Club Dinner Country Club of Missouri, Columbia, MO SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 22 Masonic Home Open House Masonic Complex, Columbia, MO MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 23 & TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 24 Masonic Home of Missouri booth at Grand Lodge Annual Communication Holiday Inn Executive Center, Columbia, MO MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 23 Masonic Home Representatives’ Luncheon featuring Partnership Awards and Vincil Society Awards Holiday Inn Executive Center, Columbia, MO SUNDAY, OCTOBER 13 THROUGH WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 16 Masonic Home of Missouri booth at Grand Chapter Session Capitol Plaza Hotel, Jefferson City, MO TUESDAY, DECEMBER 31 Deadline for 2019 contributions

Visit us at www.mohome.org for an upto-date calendar of events. Truman Club Regional events scheduled throughout the year will be added to this calendar.

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Save the Date!

Honoring our Veterans

The Masonic Home of Missouri's 17th Annual Charity Golf Tournament Monday, June 10, 2019 Columbia Country Club, Columbia, MO Sponsored by

All proceeds benefit the Masonic Home of Missouri Partnership Programs.

Almost 14,000 lives were touched during FY2018 through these programs.

Play . Sponsor . Donate