Senior DeMolay Colonel Frank Borman: Recipient of the first Congressional Space Medal of Honor

Frank Frederick Borman II, an American astronaut and retired United States Air Force Colonel, is a name deeply engraved in the annals of space exploration history. Born on March 14, 1928, in Gary, Indiana, Borman's life journey took him from the skies of the Air Force to the boundless reaches of space. His remarkable contributions to space exploration, including commanding the Apollo 8 mission, have left an indelible mark on humanity's quest to explore the cosmos.

Senior DeMolay Frank Borman joined an Arizona Chapter of the Order of DeMolay in 1943.  Colonel Borman later said of his DeMolay experience, "My DeMolay experience was a very positive part of growing up. I remember it with pleasure and I recommend a similar experience to every young man."

Borman's early life was marked by his fascination with aviation. He joined the United States Military Academy at West Point, graduating in 1950. Following his graduation, he entered the United States Air Force and began a career as a fighter pilot. His exceptional skills and dedication led him to become a test pilot, pushing the boundaries of aircraft performance. His experiences as a pilot prepared him for the challenges he would face in the realm of space exploration.

In 1962, Borman was selected as one of the original 14 astronauts for NASA's Gemini program. The Gemini missions were crucial in paving the way for future lunar missions, serving as stepping stones in developing the necessary technology and expertise. Borman flew two Gemini missions, Gemini 7 and Gemini 12, where he demonstrated his competence and adaptability in the unforgiving environment of space.

However, it was his role as the commander of Apollo 8 that would make him a household name and a symbol of human achievement. Apollo 8 was a historic mission, as it was the first time humans would journey to the Moon's vicinity. On December 21, 1968, Borman, along with fellow astronauts James Lovell and William Anders, embarked on this daring expedition. The crew's primary objective was to orbit the Moon and conduct scientific observations. As they circled the Moon, they captured the famous "Earthrise" photograph, a stunning image that highlighted the fragility and beauty of our planet.

The Apollo 8 mission was not without its challenges. The crew faced the perilous journey into the unknown, with the constant risk of mechanical failure and the uncertainties of navigating uncharted lunar territory. Borman's leadership and composure were critical in overcoming these obstacles. His ability to keep the crew focused and calm under pressure was instrumental in the mission's success.

On Christmas Eve 1968, while orbiting the Moon, Borman addressed the people of Earth with a memorable message: "And from the crew of Apollo 8, we close with good night, good luck, a Merry Christmas, and God bless all of you, all of you on the good Earth." It was a moment of unity and reflection that resonated with millions around the world.

The safe return of Apollo 8 marked a pivotal moment in the Space Race, bolstering America's confidence in its quest to reach the Moon. Frank Borman's leadership, along with the dedication of the entire Apollo 8 team, had taken humanity one step closer to that monumental goal.

After the Apollo 8 mission, Borman continued to contribute to space exploration in various roles. He retired from NASA and the Air Force in 1970 and pursued a successful career in the private sector. Borman's impact extended beyond space exploration, as he became a prominent advocate for environmental conservation and education.

In retrospect, Frank Borman's journey from a young aviation enthusiast to a legendary astronaut and leader serves as an inspiration to generations. His courage, resilience, and commitment to the pursuit of knowledge exemplify the human spirit's unending quest to explore the cosmos. As we look to the future of space exploration, we can find inspiration in the remarkable life and achievements of Frank Borman, a true pioneer of the final frontier.

Senior DeMolay and Medal of Honor Recipient: Lance Peter Sijan

Lance Peter Sijan, also known as Lazar Šijan, remains an enduring symbol of valor and selflessness in the annals of American military history. Born on April 13, 1942, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, his life was marked by a remarkable journey from childhood to the United States Air Force, ultimately culminating in an act of heroism that would lead to the posthumous award of the Medal of Honor, the highest military honor in the United States. Beyond his courageous military career, Sijan's early influences and experiences, including his involvement with DeMolay as a teenager in Wisconsin, shaped his character and instilled values that would define his legacy.

Early Life and Military Career: 

Lance Peter Sijan was the eldest child of Sylvester and Jane Sijan, born to an ethnic Serb father and an Irish-American mother. He grew up in Milwaukee, where his father owned a restaurant. Lance's upbringing was marked by the values of hard work, determination, and a strong sense of duty instilled in him by his parents. His formative years were spent in a nurturing environment that emphasized the importance of family, heritage, and community.

After graduating from Bay View High School in 1960, Sijan embarked on a path that would lead him to greatness. He attended the Naval Academy Preparatory School at the United States Naval Training Center Bainbridge, Maryland, immediately following his high school graduation. His commitment to education and personal growth earned him an appointment to the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Sijan's academic pursuits did not overshadow his love for sports. He played on the Air Force Academy's football team for three years, showcasing his dedication and teamwork. In his final year, he made the difficult decision to leave the team to focus on his studies, a testament to his unwavering commitment to excellence. In 1965, he graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Humanities and was commissioned as a second lieutenant.

Following his graduation, Sijan commenced Undergraduate Pilot Training, marking the beginning of his remarkable military career. He was assigned to the 480th Tactical Fighter Squadron, 366th Fighter Wing, stationed at Da Nang Air Base, South Vietnam, where he served as a pilot and systems officer in an F-4 Phantom.

The Last Mission: 

November 9, 1967, is a date etched in history as the night of Sijan's 52nd combat mission. He and pilot Lieutenant Colonel John Armstrong were assigned a critical bombing mission to Ban Laboy ford in Laos. Tragically, during the mission, their F-4C aircraft was engulfed in flames due to a malfunction in the bomb fuses, leading to a premature detonation upon release. In a desperate bid to survive, Sijan ejected from the aircraft, landing on a rocky limestone ridge near the target.

Sijan's journey from this point forward was nothing short of miraculous and exemplified his indomitable spirit. Despite suffering a fractured skull, a mangled right hand, and a compound fracture of his left leg during the violent ejection, he was determined to survive. Alone, without food, and with minimal water and no survival kit, he managed to evade enemy forces for an astonishing 46 days.

Throughout his ordeal, Sijan's resilience was evident. He could only move by sliding on his buttocks and back along the unforgiving terrain. His journey led him to a truck road along the Ho Chi Minh Trail, where he was captured by North Vietnamese forces on Christmas Day, 1967. Even in captivity, he displayed unwavering resolve, repeatedly resisting his captors' attempts to extract information beyond the limits of the Geneva Convention.

 Lance Peter Sijan's life, from his early years influenced by his family and community to his valiant military service, remains a testament to the enduring impact of childhood experiences and values. His involvement with DeMolay during his teenage years in Wisconsin undoubtedly contributed to his sense of duty, honor, and commitment to a greater cause.

Despite the unimaginable challenges he faced, Sijan's unwavering determination and commitment to his fellow airmen never wavered. His selflessness and courage under lethal danger ultimately earned him the Medal of Honor, which he received posthumously in 1976.

Lance Peter Sijan's legacy continues to inspire generations, serving as a reminder that the values instilled in us during our formative years can shape us into extraordinary individuals. His story is a testament to the indomitable spirit of the human will and the enduring power of resilience, honor, and sacrifice.