Sirs,
I just joined the US Navy and ship to boot camp Nov. 10. I want to be apart of the Craft for God, Country and pursuit of becoming the best man I can be. The question being: Would the recommendation, from current members, be that I wait until I am completely through training to put in an application? Is being in the military a problem? I appreciate the time and thought in advance for all answers. My wife and I have made the decision for the Craft, I hope they do the same for me.

Under God,
Joshua
Age: 19

Josh, we welcome your inquiry:

Re: California Masonic Membership,
Membership is open to men age 18 and older who believe in a Supreme Being and meet the qualifications and standards. Men of all ethnic and religious backgrounds are welcome. The http://www.freemason.org give a great listing of the surrounding Lodges near your community. Just a note: In travelling in a Navy household it can be more than a job. I assume that there may be the case of being out to sea or shifting duty. This can become an issue if roots cannot be planted for several months. So, before you make the clear commitment, you must discuss the relocation schedule with any communication to asking for a petition for membership. I assure you that the officers of any lodge will understand and relate a schedule of their process. A break in the action of the schedule of receiving the degree is not unknown, but can be disruptive. Accommodation can be worked out. Once a process is clear then all will be able to commit. Glad your spouse is on-board and there are plenty of activities for women in an active lodge or other Masonic circles. Best of Luck. Ronald Doucette - Moderator

Thank you for your input sir. I have many questions for the secretary at the local hall. I hope I do not become annoying to them.

I encourage you to submit a petition to your local lodge right away (since you have made the decision to petition). You may have to continue the process at your next duty station, since you will not have time to complete the process in California. Your local lodge can sign over a “power of attorney” to the lodge in your city of residence, and you can complete the degree work at the lodge in your town of residence.

BTW- The US Navy and Freemasonry, have a long and wonderful history, going back to the founding of the US Navy, by brother John Paul Jones.  Stephen Decatur, and many of the senior officers in the Navy were Masons, including Brother Chester Nimitz.

yes sirs i agree and think that you should join the military and be a mason whatever floats your boat really i mean its up to you, none of which actually means anything in the long run, there are far greater things than earthy organisations or corprations that cant even scratch the surface of whats really out there.

Dear Mr Pedro Gonzalez:
You have a really good sense of humor, Pedro. Thank you for your great advice for the reader to join the military and serve our Nation and protect our citizens. And, to join the Masons and serve his community and fellow man and become better man. Oh, yes, and there are bigger things out there than we are aware, but we are here and now today. You are right.  Ronald Doucette - Moderator