WILMINGTON — Wilmington Masonic Lodge Officers for 2017 were installed on Tuesday, Dec. 6 at the Wilmington Masonic Temple.
Following the Installation Ceremony, David Holmes was presented his 65-Year Masonic Service Award from Wilmington Lodge member Keith Newton and 8th Masonic District officer Skip Vanderhorst. During the presentation ceremony, Keith Newton, who is also Senior Grand Warden of Ohio’s Grand Lodge, told the family members and friends in attendance, “David Holmes is my Masonic mentor and has always had a profound influence on my life.”
In 2020 Keith will be Grand Master of all Masons in Ohio, so it’s important to remember that we never know where our influence on others will lead them.
During World War II David Holmes’ heroic military service included flying heavily-loaded military cargo aircraft “Over the “Hump” — an extremely dangerous 530-mile long passage over the Himalayan Mountains. Nearly 1,000 men and 600 planes were lost attempting to resupply forces fighting the Japanese.
Wilmington Masonic Lodge No. 52 was first chartered in 1817 and re-chartered in 1842. The lodge will celebrate its 175th Anniversary in a Reconsecration Ceremony with members of The Grand Lodge of Ohio in attendance. All men who are Masons are cordially invited to attend this momentous event which will be held on Saturday, March 18 at 1 p.m. at Wilmington Masonic Lodge, 34 1/2 W. Main St. in Wilmington. Lunch will be served at noon.
