Major General Charles “Whitt” Whittington , USA (Ret.) – Fraters, Fellow Veterans of the Order of the Shield, and Honored Guests:
Today we gather with heartfelt appreciation, reflecting on the gifts of freedom and unity. This Memorial Day is a time for thoughtful tribute, as we pause our routines to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
Within the expanse of our great Fraternity exists an honored organization reserved for the military veterans who have proudly worn the uniform of our respective nations. Looking upon the Order, I am reminded of the strong bonds of brotherhood that exist for us in both arenas of our lives. Today, we celebrate the dedication of brothers from all countries who gave so much for their nations.
Since Tau Kappa Epsilon was founded on January 10, 1899, it has inspired the belief that a man should be valued for his character, not his wealth or status. Military service brings this lesson to life; in challenging moments, what matters most is integrity and courage—two qualities our founders cherished.
The heroes we honor today exemplified these virtues.
Throughout history, our Fraternity has been steadfast in times of need. During World War I, chapter houses transformed as brothers stepped forward into service. In WWII, operations paused while alumni and students answered their calling. We are proud of the Teke Life wartime newsletter that kept brothers connected and the Teke Loyalty Fund that supported us at home.
Today, we also remember the price paid by those who could no longer remain with us. The names moved from active membership to the rolls of the honored remind us of the impact they had; for many, Teke Life was a treasured piece of home.
In 1907, National Founder William Wilson wrote our Declaration of Principles, including a verse: “Faith without works is dead.” He reminded us that true brotherhood means putting words into actions.
Those we honor showed their loyalty through their deeds. They embodied the spirit of brotherhood—Love, Charity, and Esteem—proving these are values worth dedicating oneself to.
Our Declaration says our Fraternity stands for Men above all else. Today, we celebrate the best among us and reflect on the “Opportunity Out of Defeat” their sacrifices have given us—the lasting triumph of freedom earned through courage.
Our Creed calls us “To Believe in love and loyalty to my College, my Fraternity, my Country, and my God.” The fallen lived out these ideals fully.
Tau Kappa Epsilon unites us in lifelong brotherhood. Those who served in battle, air, and sea gave their lives so ours could flourish.
Let us leave today feeling inspired—not only remembering but committing to live lives that honor their legacy. Let us strive to build better men, encouraged by their bravery and generosity.
May God bless our fallen brothers, our nations, and Tau Kappa Epsilon.
Yours in the Bond,
Major General Charles “Whitt” Whittington, USA (Ret.)
Order of the Shield | Tau Kappa Epsilon International Fraternity
Love, Charity, and Esteem
