Moon Walker, Freemason, Senior DeMolay: The Extraordinary Life of Edgar Mitchell

Edgar Dean Mitchell, a name etched in history as an astronaut, aviator, and scientist, was more than just a space explorer. His remarkable journey from the lunar surface to his passionate involvement in the Order of DeMolay and Freemasonry reflects a life dedicated to exploration, both in the realms of science and the pursuit of deeper truths. This essay unveils the incredible life of Edgar Mitchell, the sixth person to walk on the Moon, and his significant contributions to the Masonic fraternity and the Order of DeMolay.

Early Life and Education

Born on September 17, 1930, in Hereford, Texas, to Joseph and Ollidean Mitchell, Edgar Mitchell hailed from a ranching family. His upbringing in New Mexico instilled in him a love for flying, and he earned his private pilot license at the young age of 16. Mitchell's adventurous spirit led him to join the Boy Scouts of America, where he achieved the rank of Life Scout and embraced the values of leadership and service.

A Member of DeMolay and Masonic Brotherhood

Edgar Mitchell's journey into the world of Freemasonry began during his youth. He became a member of DeMolay International, a part of the Masonic Fraternity, and eventually earned a place in the DeMolay Hall of Fame. His affiliation with Artesia Lodge #29 in New Mexico further solidified his commitment to Masonic principles.

Educational Pursuits and Military Service

Mitchell's pursuit of knowledge was relentless. After graduating from Artesia High School in 1948, he went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in industrial management from Carnegie Institute of Technology (now Carnegie Mellon University). In 1952, he joined the United States Navy and completed his basic training at the San Diego Recruit Depot.

His military career saw him achieve the rank of Ensign in 1953, following which he became a Naval Aviator and was awarded the Daughters of the American Revolution Award for his outstanding performance during flight training. Mitchell later pursued a second bachelor's degree, this time in aeronautical engineering, at the U.S. Naval Postgraduate School in 1961. In 1964, he earned his Doctor of Science degree in aeronautics and astronautics from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).

NASA Career and Apollo 14

Edgar Mitchell's selection as part of NASA's fifth astronaut group in 1966 marked the beginning of his journey into space. Initially assigned to the support crew for Apollo 9 and designated as backup Lunar Module Pilot for Apollo 10, he ultimately found himself on the Apollo 14 mission. This mission would become a significant chapter in his life.

On February 5, 1971, Mitchell, alongside Commander Alan Shepard, landed on the lunar surface as part of Apollo 14. Their historic journey included 33 hours on the Moon, where they conducted scientific experiments and collected lunar samples. Mitchell's experience of standing on the lunar surface, gazing back at Earth, profoundly affected his perspective on humanity and the planet.

A Commitment to Consciousness and the Paranormal

Edgar Mitchell's post-NASA career was marked by his deep interest in consciousness and paranormal phenomena. He conducted private ESP experiments with friends on Earth, and the results were published in the Journal of Parapsychology in 1971. His experiences in space had led to a heightened awareness of the interconnectedness of humanity and a desire to explore the mysteries of the mind.

Founding the Institute of Noetic Sciences

In 1973, Mitchell founded the Institute of Noetic Sciences (IONS) in Palo Alto, California, with the aim of advancing consciousness research and exploring related phenomena. He believed in bridging the gap between science and spirituality and sought to promote a holistic understanding of reality.

Legacy and Reflections

Edgar Mitchell's life serves as an inspiration to all those who seek to explore the frontiers of knowledge and consciousness. His journey from the lunar surface to the depths of the human mind exemplifies the boundless potential of the human spirit. Mitchell's legacy lives on through his contributions to space exploration, his pioneering work in consciousness research, and his dedication to the principles of Freemasonry and the Order of DeMolay.

Edgar Mitchell's extraordinary life encompassed the realms of space, science, and spirituality. He walked on the Moon, delved into the mysteries of the mind, and remained a devoted member of the Masonic fraternity and the Order of DeMolay. His enduring legacy reminds us that the pursuit of knowledge, service to others, and the quest for deeper understanding are the hallmarks of an extraordinary life.

Senior DeMolay, Freemason, Army Colonel, and Governor of Maryland: William Schaefer

William Donald Schaefer, a prominent American politician, left an indelible mark on the state of Maryland through his five decades of dedicated public service at both the state and local levels. A Democrat by affiliation, Schaefer served as the 45th mayor of Baltimore from December 1971 to January 1987, the 58th Governor of Maryland from January 21, 1987, to January 18, 1995, and the 32nd Comptroller of Maryland from January 20, 1999, to January 17, 2007. In this essay, we will explore the life and career of William Schaefer, focusing on his early life, his involvement with organizations like DeMolay and the Freemasons, his military service, and his journey through the world of politics.

Early Life and Education

Born on November 2, 1921, in Baltimore, Maryland, William Schaefer was the only child of Tululu Irene and William Henry Schaefer. Raised in the old West Baltimore community off Edmondson Avenue, he spent his formative years at 620 Edgewood Street, near Hilton Street and Parkway by Gwynns Falls-Leakin Park. Schaefer's educational journey began in Baltimore's city public schools, culminating in his graduation from The Baltimore City College, a public high school, in 1939. He furthered his education by earning an LL.B. from the University of Baltimore School of Law in 1942 and later pursued an LL.M. in 1954.

Involvement with DeMolay and Freemasonry

During his youth, William Schaefer was a member of the Order of DeMolay in Baltimore, an experience that would later lead to his induction into the DeMolay International Hall of Fame. Additionally, he became a Freemason and a member of the "Grand Lodge of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons of the State of Maryland." Schaefer's involvement with these organizations reflects his commitment to principles of leadership, community service, and personal development.

Military Service

When the United States entered World War II on December 8, 1941, William Schaefer answered the call of duty by joining the United States Army. He would go on to achieve the rank of officer and assumed responsibility for administering hospitals in England and other parts of western Europe. Remarkably, Schaefer continued to serve in the U.S. Army Reserves throughout his academic, legal, and political careers until 1979 when he retired as a colonel. His military service exemplified his dedication to his country and reinforced the values of discipline and leadership that would guide his future endeavors.

Legal Career and Civic Engagement

Following his military service, William Schaefer resumed his legal career, specializing in real estate law. With a Master of Law degree obtained in 1954 from the University of Baltimore School of Law, he co-founded a general practice law firm with two colleagues. Schaefer remained unmarried and resided with his mother in unassuming rowhouses on Edgewood Street in West Baltimore, except for his later years when he moved to the Government House, the Maryland Governor's Mansion.

Schaefer's entry into public life was inspired by his desire to address issues of corruption and fairness. He decided to run for a seat in the Maryland House of Delegates in 1950 and 1954, although he was unsuccessful in both attempts. His determination paid off in 1955 when he secured a seat on the Baltimore City Council, representing the 5th Councilmanic District. In 1967, he successfully ran for the position of Baltimore City Council president, and four years later, in 1971, he emerged victorious in the mayoral race.

Conclusion

William Schaefer's life journey from his early involvement with DeMolay and Freemasonry, his distinguished military service, to his impactful political career serves as an inspirational tale of dedication, perseverance, and service to his community and country. His legacy as a Senior DeMolay, Freemason, Army Colonel, and Governor of Maryland continues to inspire future generations to pursue leadership, integrity, and public service. William Schaefer's name remains synonymous with unwavering commitment to the betterment of society.