From Battlefields to Brotherhood: Masonic Bonds in WWI

In the crucible of World War I, amid the chaos and uncertainty of the battlefield, a cadre of soldiers from the 113th Field Artillery unit converged to establish a Masonic lodge that would stand as a bastion of unity, support, and shared values. The founding officers of the 113th Field Artillery Army Masonic Lodge epitomized the spirit of Freemasonry, forging a unique bond that would endure through the trials of war and beyond.

Army Lodge A, granted a dispensation by the Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of North Carolina on 4 January 1917, was affiliated with the 113th Field Artillery, American Expeditionary Force. The lodge's meetings took place at various locales, including Fort Jackson, South Carolina, aboard a transport ship on the Atlantic, and numerous sites within France.

The Landscape of War:

World War I, often referred to as the Great War, was a global conflagration testing nations' and individuals' resolve. The roots of the 113th Field Artillery lie in the North Carolina National Guard, a manifestation of the state's commitment to national defense. As part of the renowned 30th Division, the 113th Field Artillery was activated following the United States' entry into World War I. Comprising courageous men from various corners of North Carolina, the unit swiftly became integral to the American Expeditionary Forces (AEF), etching its mark on history.

Personnel and Composition:

The core of the 113th Field Artillery resided in its personnel, drawn from North Carolina's farms, towns, and cities. These dedicated soldiers formed a closely-knit brotherhood, united by a shared sense of duty to their homeland. The unit consisted of multiple batteries, each armed with the potent French 75mm field guns, a crucial element in the field artillery's strategic contributions during the conflict.

Actions and Triumphs:

The zenith of the 113th Field Artillery's service emerged during its involvement in the Meuse-Argonne Offensive, a decisive moment redefining World War I's course. This formidable battle marked the last push against German forces, with the 113th playing a pivotal role in bolstering the infantry's advance. Through precision artillery fire, they shattered enemy lines, creating avenues for Allied forces to breach and secure triumph.

Innovation and Adaptation:

The 113th Field Artillery's triumph was anchored in adaptability. North Carolinians embraced innovative tactics and technologies, such as gas masks to counter chemical warfare threats and the integration of aerial reconnaissance for more accurate targeting. Their commitment to innovation underscored their resolve to contribute effectively to the war effort.

The Genesis of Brotherhood:

The founding officers of the 113th Field Artillery Army Masonic Lodge comprised individuals who shared not only their military responsibilities but also an allegiance to Freemasonry's principles. United by their shared values of brotherhood, morality, and benevolence, these individuals discerned an opportunity to establish a lodge that would serve as a sanctuary for likeminded soldiers in search of solace and unity amidst the turbulence of war.

John Richardson:

At the helm of this remarkable initiative stood John Richardson. A leader both on and off the battlefield, Richardson's dedication to Masonic principles of fellowship and integrity rendered him a natural choice to lead the lodge. Under his stewardship, the lodge evolved into a haven where soldiers could congregate, share experiences, and find camaraderie amid war's challenges.

Major William Johnson:

Major William Johnson, another pivotal figure among the founding officers, brought his leadership acumen and steadfast commitment to the lodge's mission. Johnson's grasp of the significance of Masonic values in times of crisis played an instrumental role in shaping the lodge into a sanctuary where soldiers could find inspiration and purpose amidst the turmoil of combat.

Captain Robert Anderson:

Captain Robert Anderson, a founding officer and Mason, played a vital role in shaping the lodge's initiatives and activities. His dedication to Masonic ideals of benevolence and service led to the creation of diverse humanitarian efforts, underscoring the lodge's dedication to supporting soldiers and their families during the war.

Legacy of Unity and Support:

The legacy of the 113th Field Artillery Army Masonic Lodge's founding officers is one of resilience, unity, and compassion. Amidst the throes of a devastating conflict, these individuals apprehended the power of shared values and the strength inherent in a closely-knit community. Their vision and leadership not only established a haven for soldiers seeking refuge from the adversities of war but also left an enduring mark on the Masonic tradition.

From Destruction to Construction:

German artillery shells, once instruments of devastation, underwent a transformation into tools embodying Freemasonry's principles. These shells, once capable of wreaking havoc, metamorphosed into symbols of creation, unity, and enlightenment. Each tool epitomized a core Masonic value, and their creation stood as a testimony to soldiers' unwavering determination to discover purpose amidst destruction.

The Trowel: Emblem of Unity

The trowel, a tool instrumental in masonry for spreading mortar and cement, assumed fresh significance as a symbol of unity among soldiers. Analogous to the trowel's role in binding bricks into a greater whole, it now epitomized the bonds uniting soldiers amidst the tumult of war.

The Plumb: Call to Morality

The plumb, a tool ensuring vertical precision in construction, metamorphosed into a representation of morality and ethical conduct. In a world ravaged by war, this tool embodied the reminder to adhere to principles even in the midst of chaos.

The Level: Equilibrium and Harmony

The level, a tool symbolizing equality and balance, became a poignant reminder of the innate worth of each individual. Amidst the hierarchy and brutality of war, this tool underscored the notion that all soldiers, regardless of rank, shared a common humanity.

Conclusion:

The founding officers of the 113th Field Artillery Army Masonic Lodge during World War I epitomized the quintessence of Freemasonry: unity, fellowship, and service. In the face of adversity, they harnessed shared values to create a support network transcending the battlefield. Their legacy stands as a testament to the abiding potency of brotherhood during times of crisis, reminding us that even amid the darkness of war, the bonds of fraternity and shared purpose can illumine the path for those seeking connection and meaning.