By Rich Rygh
Jefferson County Lodge No. 9 hosted a Wreath Laying Ceremony honoring Revolutionary War Veteran Eliada Brown on July 3 at Greenwood Cemetery in Jefferson.
District 9 Lecturer Brad Behlke, Master, welcomed everyone and stated, “Today we gather not only to remember a man who answered his country’s call in its earliest days, but also to reflect upon the sacrifices made by those whose courage secured the liberties we continue to enjoy. As Masons, we are taught to honor virtue, service, and fidelity to duty. Those principles are not confined to our Fraternity; they are found in the lives of countless Americans who helped build this nation. Eliada Brown was one such man.”
Junior Grand Deacon Paul A. Larson reflected on duty and legacy.
Grand Master Joseph E. Thompson presented a Proclamation of Recognition and is pictured at the top of this article placing a wreath on the grave; DL8 Brad Behlke, Master, Brother Mike Perez, and Junior Grand Deacon Paul A. Larson are pictured in the background of this solemn ceremony.
Military honors were provided by the American Legion Post #164 Honor Guard followed by the playing of Taps by Bill Meinel.
Remarks were made by a representative of the Jefferson Historical Society and Mayor Dale Oppermann.
