W Bro Walter “Wally” Randall reached his 100th birthday on 8th September and he is still serving as the Tyler of Beaudesert Mark Lodge.
On 23rd September at a regular meeting of the Lodge in Linslade Wally attended as usual, but this time he was escorted to a chair in the Lodge to watch the business and the Advancement of a candidate.
However, as a great surprise to Wally and to most Brethren present, the Past Pro Grand Master MW Bro Benjamin Addy was admitted into the Lodge accompanied by W Bro Ryan Williams DepGSec and VW Bro Nick Murzell DepGDC. Later under item 6 on the Agenda, which had suitably vague wording, the PProGM was invited by the Worshipful Master W Bro Dave Young to take the chair, from where he gave an address to the Lodge in which he related many significant moments and achievements in Wally’s life; at the same time putting into general historical perspective each stage of Wally’s masonic progress. This was very well appreciated by Wally and the Brethren.
Following the Address, the PProGM took the floor and presented Wally with a citation scroll signed by the Grand Master, HRH Prince Michael of Kent. This was followed by the highlight of the evening as, much to Wally’s astonishment, he was promoted “in the field” to the rank of Past Assistant Grand Director of Ceremonies (PAGDC) in the Mark Degree. Needless to say there was much excitement and applause for this very worthy gesture.
Having congratulated Wally, the PProGM returned the chair to the Worshipful Master, who invited our Provincial Grand Master, RW David Tremaine to make a presentation to Wally. This was done from the floor and the ProvGM started by presenting Wally with a certificate honouring Wally for his service to the Province. On behalf of the Lodge he then presented a new Tyler’s chair with an inscribed plate on it. Of course the plate incorporated Wally’s newly awarded Grand Rank! The chair had been secretly designed and constructed at the request of the Lodge by W Bro Michael Irons.
This unique achievement by W Bro Wally was an experience for all present and something no one present will forget. Congratulations to Wally, and many thanks to all in Beaudesert Mark Lodge, Provincial Grand Lodge and Mark Grand Lodge who made this possible and so enjoyable. Wally is such an inspiration to others to keep active in their lodges!