Two Olive Branch members honored by Illinois Scottish Rite.

 

This past Saturday, June 20, 2026, at the Illinois Scottish Rite Council of Deliberation Meeting in Springfield, Olive Branch Past Master and current Treasurer, Jerry Askren, received the Council's Distinguished Service Award for 2026. It was also announced that Olive Branch Past Master, Ronald VadeBonCoeur, was elected to receive the Meritorious Service Award at next year's meeting. Congratulations, Brethren.

Medal of Honor Day and two Brothers from Danville

 

 In 2007, March 25th was recognized as National Medal of Honor Day. Every year since, it has been the official day honoring service members of the U.S. military who’ve demonstrated actions of valor that inspire generations and the nation.

In keeping with this tradition, we once again share with you a bit about John Charles and William Perkins Black.  These two brothers from Danville volunteered and fought in the Civil War, joined Olive Branch Lodge 38 after the War, had long and distinguished careers as attorneys and in public service, and eventually became the first pair of brothers to receive the Congressional Medal of Honor for bravery in combat during the War.

Here is a link to a website with a collection of documents and photos concerning the brothers.

 http://www.blackbrotherscollection.com/index.html

William Perkins Black 1862

  

John Charles Black 1862