The Grand Master personally designed his Medallion to depict the theme, "PROTECTING OUR HERITAGE FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS." The five men in World War II era uniforms depict enlisted servicemen in each of the five branches of our military. The Marine is a depiction of the R. W. Grand Master's grandfather, John Gardner, circa 1910. The sailor is likened to the Grand Master's father, Harold R. Gardner. The Coast Guard is represented by Bro. Paul (Augie) Hirschel, a Past Master of Porter Lodge No. 284. The Airman portrays the Grand Master's youngest son, Bro. Peter Gardner, a 2nd Lieutenant U.S.A.F. currently serving in Omaha, Nebraska, a member of Porter Lodge No. 284. The soldier depicts the Grand Master's father-in-law, Bro. Anthony J. Lulias, of Lodge No. 9. In the center is a Master Mason, resembling the Grand Master's oldest son, Bro. John Stephen Gardner, a member of Porter Lodge No. 284 and Worshipful Master of George Washington Lodge No. 143 for 2008. The American and Masonic flags crossed at the bottom symbolize the ties between Freemasonry, the founding of our country, and patriotism.
The medallion represents the guiding principles we abide by today. As Americans and Freemasons, we have inherited a strong legacy which we are responsible to uphold, augment and impart to future generations. We must remember, honor and thank those who have given us the freedoms we have today. It is our responsibility to ensure that the sacrifices they have made and continue to make for our liberty are not in vain. Similarly, if we fail to protect our Masonic heritage, and to enable it to thrive well into the future, then we have not fulfilled our duty and obligation as Masons.
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