Left to right, Chief Stephen Hankard, Jr. of Sanbornton, NH, Carol Hankard, Stephen Hankard, Sr. and M.W. Grand Master John E Lobdell of the NH Grand Lodge.

Brother Stephen Hankard, Sr., past Worshipful Master and current Marshall of the Union Lodge No. 79 in Bristol, NH was recently honored by the Grand Lodge of NH with a Jeremy Ladd Cross Award for his volunteer work at the NH Veteran’s Home in Tilton, NH.

This award is given to Freemasons in the state of NH who have distinguished themselves as being dedicated to the Masonic Principles of Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth and who have tirelessly served the community. Brother Hankard and his wife Carol have volunteered weekly for twelve years by visiting and assisting residents at the Veteran’s Home. He also started a monthly Square and Compass Club for those residents who are also Freemasons and each month presents a program of interest to the group. “I’ve never considered our visits work,” said Hankard. “I’ve always considered them a joyful pleasure.”