Masons Recognize Boddington for 60 years

Clyde Boddington of The Dalles received his 60-year pin at The Dalles Masonic Lodge on Wednesday, March 17, after serving with his brothers since 1959. Lodge Master Phil Pinto in top hat and Oregon District Deputy Eric Young presided over the ceremonies.

Boddington, 94, spent much of his career as a policeman in St. Helens and also rose to the rank of Lt. Col. in the US Army Reserves.

He said he embraced the comradery of the Masons as much as he did that of his fellow soldiers in the US Army.

Freemasons look to improve the community by starting with the individual. They believe that by improving and educating Their members, they will become better citizens, which will naturally lead to them wanting to take an active part in improving themselves and their communities.

On Wednesday, Oregon Mason District Deputy No. 8 Eric Young and The Dalles Lodge Master Phil Pinto provided the ceremony for Boddington.

“This is a badge of merit and distinction,” Young told Boddington, noting his long devotion to the ideals of this institution. “Wear it with pleasure and honor.”

“This is a rare thing,” Young said after the ceremony. “It’s my first one.”

Boddington said he came from a long line of Masons, noting his father and uncles were all in the lodge in Friday Harbor, Wash.

Young oversees Masonic Lodges in Sandy, Fairview, Hood River, Wasco County, Gresham and Eastgate.

Masons will never ask people to join the fraternity. It’s the opposite.

The Masons are open to new members and hold meetings on the second Mondays of each month. Those interested in joining the organization can knock on the door at 7 p.m. on those days. Meetings are held on the second floor of Clock Tower Ales, 311 Union Street.

Eric Young Oregon Mason District Deputy pins Clyde Boddington for 60 years of service on Wednesday at The Dalles Masonic Lodge.