Article by Right Worshipful Kenneth Clay, Senior Grand Warden

Saturday, April 23, 2016 was a special day in many ways. It was special because Most Worshipful Grand Master John F. Gordon presented Right Worshipful Brother Ronald J. Brown with the Major General John Sullivan Distinguished Service Medal in Gold. It was special because there are only about 20 living New Hampshire freemasons who have received this honor. It was special because the presentation was held at Brother Brown’s home lodge – Humane Lodge No. 21 in Rochester, NH. It was special because his family was present to witness the ceremony.

Major General John Sullivan Distinguished Service Medal is awarded to a New Hampshire freemason who distinguishes himself through service to his lodge and community. The medal is presented in bronze, then silver and then gold. There is a required 10-year period before a bronze recipient is eligible for a silver medal, and then another 10 years before being eligible for a gold medal. This explains why there are so few recipients of the Major John Sullivan Distinguished Service Medal in Gold, and why Saturday was such a special day.

Congratulations to Right Worshipful Brother Ronald J. Brown!