In late July, President Kuzma and I received notification from Grand Master Edward Ciesla that he was resigning as the District I representative to the Commandery, as well as the role of Grand Master.
This saddened me, but Druh Ed has his reasons for this decision. Druh is feeling fine but very busy.
According to the Legion of Honor rules, when a vacancy occurs regarding the Grand Master, the Commandery must meet and elect another Grand Master within 60 days.
Wednesday evening via Zoom, a meeting of the Commandery was held.
Those on the call were:
• District II-Joan Beilfuss
• District V-James Sokolowski
• District VI-Nancy Chiszar
• District VII-Thomas Washington
• District IX-Geraldine Wilson
• District XIII-Joan Pawlukiewicz
The role of the Grand Master was explained. Commandery Secretary Gerri Wilson took over the meeting. In a short time, my cell phone rang; they were finished!
Upon my return to the Zoom call, I was pleased to learn that Druhna Joan Beilfuss had agreed to take the position.
I then administered the Grand Master of the Legion of Honor Oath. This was a first for me as usually President Kuzma has the honors.
This is only the second time that we have had a woman as the Grand Master. A few years ago, Druhna Frania Tracz held the position but passed away while in office.
Grand Master Joan will hold this position until (at least) the National Convention in 2024 when the Conclave meets.
The very first Commander, Michael Milonski was also from District II.
Druhna joined the PFA in her teens which is where she met her husband, Bob. They had four children and all are Members of the PFA. Joan has been active since joining in the PFA, holding numerous Nest and District Officer positions, supporting and attending youth events as well as participating in District and National Bowling Tournaments, District and National Conventions, District and National Zlots and numerous other events.
In recent years, Druhna has taken on the role of Committee Chair in Nest 907 for awards and strongly encouraging other Nests in her District to present awards. In addition to being the LOH Commandery Representative, she is also the President of the District II LOH Circle.
Druhna is and has been for quite some time, the Chair of the District II Christmas Party and Oplatek held each January where most Nests in the District present awards.
Said President Kuzma of the election, “I am delighted the Legion of Honor Commandery has chosen Druhna Joan Beilfuss as the Grand Master of the Legion of Honor. I have known Joan for many years and have worked with her on many occasions. Her dedication to Nest 907, District II and the entire Polish Falcons organization is unmatched. She will make a great Grand Master and maintain the traditions of the Polish Falcons of America Legion of Honor.”
Grand Master Joan and I already have a good relationship, and I am looking forward to working with her regarding the Legion of Honor.
Czolem and Congratulations!