Why does a fraternal order like the Odd Fellows have a “uniformed branch”?
Back when the Patriarchs Militant were founded, lodge organizations were among the largest social groups in American society – 40% of all adult Americans belonged to at least one lodge in 1900 – and most lodge groups took part in local parades on a regular basis. Many lodge organizations put together uniformed branches during those years, in order to make a more colorful show on parade. Nowadays, PM units appear in some local parades, but their main function in Odd Fellowship is in the Order’s ceremonies, where they provide color guards and honor guards for local, national and international events. Some jurisdictions have also established an innovative “First Aid Team” program, in which PM and LAPM members offer first aid services at Order events and provide a nucleus for local disaster preparedness in their communities.
