Lodge Le Progrès de l’Océanie recently had the distinct honor of recognizing two extraordinary brethren whose lifelong dedication to Freemasonry exemplifies its highest ideals. In a meaningful and heartfelt ceremony, the lodge presented Brother Donald Orton with the Hiram Award and Brother William “Pete” Holsomback with the McKee Award—two of the highest honors bestowed by the Grand Lodge of Hawaiʻi, F.&A.M.
Both the Hiram and McKee Awards represent the pinnacle of recognition a Masonic Lodge can confer upon its members. Awarded by the Grand Lodge of Hawaiʻi and presented by local lodges, these distinctions honor Master Masons who demonstrate exceptional, selfless service to their lodge, the fraternity, and the broader community. Often, recipients are those whose steadfast dedication occurs quietly, without expectation of recognition or advancement through office—true examples of Freemasonry’s “unsung heroes.”
These awards celebrate brethren who embody the foundational principles of Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth, offering consistent support and leadership through action rather than title. Each recipient is presented with a beautifully crafted medallion and certificate, symbolizing a legacy of service that has strengthened both Masonry and society at large.
Honoring Brother Donald Orton – Hiram Award Recipient
Brother Donald Orton has long been recognized for his unwavering commitment to service, both within and beyond the Craft. As former Chairman of the Board of Governors of Shriners Children’s Hawaiʻi, Brother Orton played a pivotal role in overseeing the comprehensive renovation of the Punahou Street hospital during the late 2000s—an undertaking that significantly enhanced the facility’s ability to serve children and families throughout the Pacific region.
His leadership, vision, and dedication to philanthropy reflect the very essence of the Hiram Award. Brother Orton’s impact has been felt not only within Freemasonry, but across the wider community he has served with humility and purpose.
Honoring Brother William “Pete” Holsomback – McKee Award Recipient
Brother William “Pete” Holsomback’s contribution to Freemasonry spans decades of faithful service. He served as General Secretary of the Honolulu Scottish Rite for more than thirty years, providing continuity, wisdom, and institutional memory to generations of Masons.
Brother Holsomback’s dedication has also been recognized at the highest levels of the Scottish Rite. He is one of only three individuals in Hawaiian history to have been bestowed the 33° Grand Cross Court of Honour, joining the distinguished ranks of Prince Consort John O. Dominis and King Kalākaua. Remarkably, all three recipients of this rare honor in Hawaiʻi were members of Lodge Le Progrès de l’Océanie, underscoring the lodge’s profound historical and Masonic significance.
A Legacy Worth Celebrating
The presentation of the Hiram and McKee Awards serves as a powerful reminder that the strength of Freemasonry lies not in titles held, but in lives lived in service to others. Through their quiet dedication, integrity, and commitment to the Craft, Brothers Orton and Holsomback have left an indelible mark on Lodge Le Progrès de l’Océanie and the fraternity as a whole.
The brethren of Lodge Le Progrès de l’Océanie extend their deepest gratitude and congratulations to these two exemplary Masons. Their service stands as an enduring example of what it truly means to labor faithfully in the quarry—building not monuments to self, but foundations of brotherhood that will endure for generations.
