Greetings, Sir Knights...

I, again, would like to thank all those who made an effort to attend the “Ascension Day” observance, in Yarmouth, on May 16th. The turn-out wasn’t what I had hoped it would be, but, I know that we have some members who are currently dealing with serious health issues, and others who had important family matters to address that day, so we gladly accept what we can muster for these events.

I will point-out that these annual “observances” are not limited to Grand Commandery officers and members. Our annual “Ascension Day” and “St. John’s Day” observances are open to ALL Sir Knights, their Ladies and families, from any Commandery within the jurisdiction of the Grand Encampment of the United States of America. Please consider taking part in these events, in the years to come.

As I mentioned in my first monthly message to you, in the May Supplement, it is imperative that we take every opportunity to promote our fraternity to the general public. You can do this by making a concerted effort to participate in the few “public” events on our calendar, such as, “Ascension Day” and “St. John’s Day”. But one of the best opportunities we have for self-promotion, each year, is the annual invitation to participate in the “Alfred Day Parade”. It’s the only parade in which we participate, and, last year, we actually won a trophy.

I am hereby requesting that each Commandery within this Grand jurisdiction, consider sending at least two representatives, (more would be VERY welcome), to participate in this event, this year.

This year, the parade will be held on Saturday, July 17th . We will form-up between 9 and 9:30 AM, next to the Post Office, on Route 111, in Alfred, Maine It’s a relatively short parade – no more than a mile-and-a-half in length, and much of the route is shaded. “Dress-of-the-day” is “summer uniforms” for those who have them. White, short-sleeved shirts, black trousers, black socks and black shoes, with Sword Belts, Swords and Chapeaus, for those who don’t. I would appreciate hearing from those Commanderies who intend to send representatives for this event, so that we can plan accordingly.

Fraternally,
Robert C. Hazelton
Grand Commander