Beni Kedem Patrol

The Beni Kedem Patrol was formed in the year 1902 with a Drill Team of 16 members. From this humble beginning 95 years ago, the Patrol has become one of the best marching units in all Shrinedom, and every Temple in North America is quite familiar with this group of devoted Shriners. At the Stated Session ot Beni kedem Temple on December 11,1902, the Nobility approved a motion to increase the membership of the "Arab Patrol" to 24 and to purchase suitable uniforms for the unit members. On April 14, 1904, the Temple approved the appropriation of funds to pay the Patrols transportation charges to Atlantic City if they should desire to attend the Imperial Council Session to be held in July, 1904. The Nobility unanimously passed a motion "requesting the Arab Patrol to attend the Imperial Council Session scheduled for Atlantic City in July." All 16 members of the original 1902 Drill Team attended the Imperial Council Session in Atlantic City and drilled on the famous Boardwalk in green bathing suits. Such attire may not have been Arabic, however this appearance by the Ben Kedem Patrol was the first precision drill and figure movement by a Patrol at an Imperial Council Session. A big first for Beni Kedem Temple. On June 13,1907, the Potentate appointed a committee of five Nobles to prepare By-Laws for the government and administration of the Patrol. This report was presented and adopted at the Stated Session of the Temple on January 9,1908. The Imperial Council in session at Los Angeles in 1907 had adopted new laws and regulations for the government of the uniformed units and in accordance therewith, the Beni kedem Patrol Committee recommended that the Potentate be granted the authority to organize a Patrol whose officers would consist of a Captain, First Lieutenant, Second Lieutenant and 24 members. The Potentate of Beni Kedem Temple in 1923, served as first President of the Patrol and during his reign the membership increased to 32. The Patrol held all meetings and drills at the Masonic Temple until 1931. In that year, Beni Kedem Temple purchased the Scottish Rite Temple on Capitol Street and the unit moved to that location where they remained until 1965 when the new Shrine Temple was constructed on Quarrier Street in Charleston. Beni Kedem Patrol has a remarkable record of achievement and dedication. It is worthy to note that six members of the "original thirteen" subsequently became Potentates of Ben Kedem Temple. Furthermore, 22 Pa~ Potentates and 3 Recorders have been members of the Patrol. Numerous Patrol members have also held prominent positions in the world of Shrinedom. Under the very capable leadership of 14 Captains, and the present Captain the Patrol has achieved a degree of competency and precision that has surely enhanced the image of Beni Kedem Temple. This outstanding unit has performed all over North America and will continue to lead the parade for the advancement of Shrinedom.