Masons Serving the Citizens of Indiana

Throughout American history Masons have played important roles. This is no different in the modern era. Indiana Masonry is very proud of four of our brothers; Frank O'Bannon, John Gregg, Dan Burton, and Steve Buyer.

Brother Frank O'Bannon of Pisgah Lodge No. 32 at Corydon was inaugurated as the 47th Governor of Indiana on January 13, 1997. Before his 1988 election as Lieutenant Governor, Frank served 18 years in the Indiana State Senate. As Lieutenant Governor, Frank was chairman of the Indiana Commission for Agriculture and Rural Development, which completed the first ever long range strategic plan for developing and preserving farms, businesses, and communities in rural Indiana. Besides his responsibilities as Governor, Frank will serve as the co-chair of the national Governors' Ethanol Coalition. This is a partnership of 20 states that seeks to expand the use of ethanol as an alternative fuel. Frank grew up in Harrison County and graduated from Corydon High School in 1948. Frank received a bachelor's degree in government in 1952 from Indiana University. Following his graduation, he served in the U.S. Air Force for two years before returning to the Indiana University School of Law to earn a law degree in 1957. After 18 years in the Indiana Senate, Frank O'Bannon served two terms as lieutenant governor under Evan Bayh and then was twice elected governor himself. He was midway through his second term when he suffered a massive stroke. He died on Sept. 13, 2003 at age 73.

Brother John Gregg, Past Master of Sandborn Lodge No. 647 at Sandborn was elected Speaker of the Indiana House of Representatives. John was born in Sandborn and has lived his entire life in that Knox County community. John graduated from North Knox High School in In 1976 he received a bachelor's degree in Political Science and History. He received a master's degree in Public Administration from Indiana State University in 1978. In 1984 he received his law degree from Indiana University School of Law at Indianapolis. John is an attorney and maintains a practice in Vincennes. John was first elected to the Indiana House in 1986. He was named by his peers and, "Outstanding Freshman Legislator." John and his wife, Sherry, have two sons. They reside in Sandborn.

Brother Dan Burton of Oriental Lodge No. 500 in Indianapolis is serving his eighth term in the United States House of Representatives. Dan represents Indiana's Sixth Congressional District. Dan's first was elected to Congress in 1982. Dan was educated at Shortridge High School in Indianapolis and Indiana University. Dan serves as Chairman of the House's Committee on Government Reform and Oversight. Dan also serves on the International Relations Committee and its subcommittees; International Operations and Human Rights; and Western Hemisphere. Dan received numberous awards from the National Federation of Independent Business, U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Watchdogs of the Treasury, and National Taxpayers Union. Dan and his wife have three children and one grandchild. Their residence is in Indianapolis.

Brother Steve Buyer of Monong Lodge No. 208 at Francisville is serving his second term in the United States House of Representatives. Steve represents Indiana's Fifth Congressional District. He was first elected in 1992. Steve is a veteran of the Gulf War and maintains his commission in the Army Reserve. Steve graduated from North White High School in Monon. He received a bachelor degree in business administration from The Citadel. In 1984 he received his law degree from Valparaiso School of Law. In Congress, Steve is a Member of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee. He serves as Chairman of the Veterans' Affairs Subcommittee on Education, Training, Employment and Housing. He also serves on the House Judiciary Committee. Steve and his wife, Joni, have two children. Their residence is in Monticello.

These four gentlemen are known for their honesty, intregrity, and for serving the citizens of Indiana. Intregrity, honor, and serving one's fellow man are at the heart of Masonic teachings. We should be proud that the teachings of Freemasonry are demonstrated in their public lives. We are proud of the accomplisments of these four brothers and the other Masons that serve in state and local government.