Lorenzo Spain, 32°
1509 E. Hermosa Vista Drive, Mesa, Arizona, 85203-2029

Photo: Ill. Audie Leon Murphy, 33º, Hall of Honor portrait by Jean Pilk

Long ago, Bro. Alexander G. Todoroff, 32°, now a retired Army combat veteran and 50-year-plus Scottish Rite Mason, met Ill. Audie Murphy at an Army post during a summer military training period when he was a member of the Texas Army National Guard. That meeting made a lifelong impression. When, from a biographical article in the February 1999 Scottish Rite Journal, Bro. Todoroff became aware that Bro. Audie, 32°, K.C.C.H., was a Scottish Rite Mason, he initiated the recommendation to award the 33rd Degree posthumously to our beloved deceased Brother. This sincere recommendation was made in view of Brother Murphy's tremendous sacrifice and gallantry in combat against the enemy, without regard to his own personal safety or life, to preserve the freedom of our country. Aside from being the most decorated soldier in World War II, Bro. Murphy was awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor, the highest single honor that can be received in the military service for valor.

Bro. Todoroff's recommendation further highlighted that Audie had also distinguished himself as a famous Hollywood film star for which he was enshrined in the National Cowboy Hall of Fame. For his distinctive career, perseverance against extreme hardship and example as a role model, Bro. Audie should be recognized by the Scottish Rite, Bro. Todoroff felt, as a Masonic hero who had served his country with greatness. As a result of this recommendation, which was supported by many Brethren, Bro. Murphy was awarded the 33rd Degree posthumously by the Supreme Council and elevated to the rank of Inspector General Honorary. His original oil portrait (above) is now installed in the Scottish Rite Hall of Honor of the House of the Temple in Washington, D.C.

I am certain I speak for all Masons in saying THANK YOU to Bro. Todoroff for initiating the posthumous awarding of the 33° upon Ill. Audie Leon Murphy-one of America's favorite heroes!