Military veterans and members of the fraternity Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated, gathered in Indianapolis to honor their dual commitments to service. This annual event, organized by the fraternity’s Midwest region, brought together veterans from across 12 states and Canada at the JW Marriott Hotel.
Retired Col. Harold V. Anderson, chair of the Midwestern Region Military Veterans Affairs committee, stated, “This year’s breakfast was a tremendous success, marked by powerful storytelling, recognition of accomplishments, and valuable information sharing.” The event emphasized military excellence and service dedication among fraternity members.
The breakfast event, a key component of the fraternity’s regional conference, has been held annually for five years, drawing hundreds for networking and discussions on fraternity business. Attendees gained insights into military recruitment and the importance of military service.
Honorees Recognized for Community Contributions
Three honorees were highlighted for their service and community impact. Robert “Bob” Raby, a U.S. Army veteran from the 1960s and a member since 1954, was celebrated for his community involvement. Known as the “Flower Man” in Indianapolis, Raby has fostered community unity through his gardening initiatives.
Lieutenant-Commander Alex K. Wood of the Royal Canadian Navy shared his experiences and the fraternity’s international military legacy, inspired by Dr. K.M.B. Simon’s service in the Canadian Army Medical Corps in 1915.
Colonel Ellis Gales, Jr., from the U.S. Army’s Recruiting Command Public Affairs Office, discussed successful recruitment strategies and support initiatives for future soldiers.
Col. Anderson noted, “Each year, we leave this gathering better informed and better prepared to serve. The information and inspiration shared directly benefits the communities and young people we support.”
International Fraternity Celebrates Military Ties
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., founded at Cornell University in 1906, is the first intercollegiate Greek-letter fraternity for African American men. The fraternity honors its military ties, with two of its founding “Jewels” being military veterans.
Jewel Vertner Woodson Tandy was the first African American to pass the military commissioning examination and served as a first lieutenant in the 15th Infantry of the New York State National Guard. Another founder, Jewel George Biddle Kelley, attended the Troy Military Academy and was the son of a Civil War veteran.
