06/09/2026
Sovereign Grand Master Tom Calabrese said this at the National War Memorial in Ottawa:
Brothers and Sisters, esteemed members of the Independent Order
of Odd Fellows,
Today we gather in sacred solidarity at this War Memorial, a place of
valor, and sacrifice. Here, we honor those gallant souls who gave
their all yet many remain identified only by the valor of their actions
and the depth of their sacrifice.
As your Sovereign Grand Master, it is my privilege and profound
honor to stand alongside you in this pilgrimage—a journey that
symbolizes not just our commitment to the principles upon which our
Order was founded, but also our dedication to honoring those who
have served, those who have fought, and those who have fallen in
the defense of our freedoms.
Each wreath we lay today is a token of our respect, a symbol of our
gratitude, and a reminder that, while some may remain nameless,
none will ever be forgotten. They embody the spirit of solidarity,
selflessness, and love for humanity—values we hold dear within our
Brotherhood.
This site challenges us to reflect on the true cost of freedom. It unites
us, reminding us that behind every name, every face, there is a
story—a story of dreams, hopes, and aspirations cut short by war.
When they fell, countless families felt the weight of their absence:
mothers whose gray hairs came too soon, widows who learned loss
in the hardest way, children who grew up clutching a faded
photograph. Their sacrifice echoes in our own bonds of friendship,
love, and truth. Let us honor these heroes not only in remembrance
but in our actions every day. Let their legacy inspire us to cultivate
peace, understanding, and goodwill in our communities.
As we go through our lives, let us carry forward the lessons of
compassion and service that these brave individuals taught us. Each
of us is called to be a beacon of hope and light in an often-dark world.
Through our charitable works and commitment to uplifting those
around us, we honor the Unknowns. We embody their spirit,
extending the principles of our Order beyond this site into the heart of
society.
As we stand at this Memorial of War, let us reaffirm our commitment
to uniting as a force for good. Let us take inspiration from those who
served with unconditional courage. May we strive to serve our
communities with that same spirit, ensuring that we are not just
members of a fraternal organization but true brothers and sisters in
service to humanity.
In closing, I ask you to reflect on the sacrifices of those we honor
today. Let your hearts swell with gratitude and determination, and
may the values of our Order guide you. Together, let us continue to
make a difference in this world, fulfilling our mission to promote
Friendship, love, and truth.
Thank you, and may peace be with you all.