76th Annual Pilgrimage to the Tomb of the Unknown

Representing Tennessee was K. D. Toney, Department Commander; Sister Linda Weaver, Rebekah Assembly President; and Brother Mitchell Kinder, Grand Master

The Independent Order of Odd Fellows held its 76th annual Pilgrimage to the Tomb of the Unknown at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia in May of 2009. The ceremony consists of music, speeches by leaders of the Order and laying of wreaths by the officers of each state or Jurisdiction. The Odd Fellows were given special permission to conduct this annual event by President Franklin D. Roosevelt who was himself a member of the Order in New York. Mitchell, Sherra and Joshua Kinder are pictured in the Arlington Memorial Amphitheater at The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Mitchell Kinder is currently serving as Grand Master of the Odd Fellows of Tennessee. Kinder stated that the ceremony is very moving as you reflect on those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice for their country. He further stated that the event makes you proud to be an Odd Fellow. Mitchell and Sherra Kinder are both members of Ocoee Lodge No. 97 in Cleveland and were honored to attend and participate at Arlington.