Constituent Lodges
Dover Airforce Base Lodge #28
In April 1969, a small group of Master Mason stationed at Dover Air
Force Base, Delaware discussed the possibility of establishing a lodge
on the facility. After much discussion and a strong desire, the idea was
presented to then, Most Worshipful Grand Master Courtney P. Houston,
Jr. It was at that time these brothers learned that the Most Worshipful
Grand Master Houston also shared their desire to established Prince Hall
Masonry on the base. After numerous conversations, debates and
inquiries, this group of Master Masons (from various states and
jurisdictions) began their quest. There also were twelve others
(military personnel stationed at the installation) who were desirous of
becoming Masons. The group was given authority to meet as a study club
named the “Square & Compass Club” by The Grand Lodge. During the initial
months, members of Prudence Lodge #6 of Dover, Delaware visited many of
the study sessions. With additional aid and assistance provided by Most
Worshipful Grand Master C.P Houston, the group of twelve, who had
petitioned and been received, were prepared to show suitable proficiency
in the 1st and 2nd degrees. Within a few months. Prudence Lodge #6
recommended to the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Delaware
that the organized study club be issued a Warrant. On June 20, 1969,
having shown suitable proficiency the twelve Candidates were Conferred
the Third Symbolic Degree of Freemasonry at the Grand East, located in
Wilmington, Delaware.
On June 21, 1969, the dream of a few became a reality when the MWPHGL, F
& AM. Of Delaware (PHA) issued a Warrant of Charter whereby Dover Air
Force Base Military Lodge #28 became a Duly Constituted subordinate
entity of the MWPHGL of Delaware. On this same date the following
officers were elected and appointed for the 1969-1970 Masonic year:
Leotis Hobbs, as Worshipful Master: P.M. Edward R. Holloway, as Senior
Warden; Walter McCray, as Junior Warden; James C. Scott, as Secretary;
Cecil H. Holmes, as Treasurer; Arthur L. Kelsie, as Senior Deacon; Peter
A. Gordon, as Junior Deacon; Edward Dendy, as Chaplin; Harmon C. Hall,
as Senior Stewart; Richard W. Beasley, as Junior Stewart; and David
Burnes Jr., as Tyler. Also, members of the Lodge were: Fred Way Jr., PM;
Witty V. Cudjo; Robert Coppage; James E. Flood; Douglas B. Jones; Thomas
Parker; John E. Simms, Jr.; and PM Royce Pearson.
Under the guidance and support of the Grand Lodge, this infant lodge
grew and grew. As a result of that growth, the jurisdiction was
developed and Delaware Prince Hall Masonry expanded to Taiwan, Thailand,
Iran, Turkey, Greece, Italy and Portugal. Due to the expansion of Dover
Air Force Base Military Lodge #28, the sun did not set on the
Jurisdiction of Delaware.
Elected Grand Lodge Officers from Dover Air Force Base Military Lodge
No.28 consist of Grand Junior Warden, James E. Bunkley, Everett Lewis,
Jr., David C. Roland Grand Senior Warden, Charles B. Cloud, Everett
Lewis Jr., David C. Roland, and Marvin I Gray: Deputy Grand Master,
Marvin I Gray (13 years); Grand Master, Marvin I. Gray(9 years) and
Grand Secretary, Fred Way, Jr (39 years).
Appointed Grand Lodge Officers: Grand Lecture – Fred Way, Jr., John T.
Luke (24 years), Marvin I. Gray and David L. Wilson.
Fred Way, Jr. is serving as the Executive Secretary for the Conference
of Grand Masters Prince Hall Masons, PHA, 2009 to present.
There is something about the military that cultivates the characteristic
of Leadership in men. It’s an institution that has provided quality
leaders for our nation and society. Men like George Washington-
Revolutionary Army General (and a Mason), who went on to be the first
President of the United States. Also, men like Prince Hall, who served
in the Revolutionary Army, was made a Mason in a Military Lodge, and is
the Father of Prince Hall Masonry.
We of Dover Air Force Base Military Lodge #28 are especially proud of
continuing the tradition of providing quality leadership throughout
Freemasonry and in this Diamond State. Not that isn’t enough, but we
also are the home of the Titular Head of Masonry in and throughout the
State and Jurisdiction of Delaware, none other than the Honorable, Past
Most Worshipful Grand Master of Masons, Marvin I Gray.