Zeta Omicron Celebrates 20th Anniversary

LTC Thomas R. Murray Dedication
Written by: Michael E. Justice II (Zeta Omicron – Southern Indiana ’07)

Tonight, we gather not only to celebrate the accomplishments of our chapter but also to pay tribute to a remarkable individual who has left an indelible mark on our fraternity. It is with great honor and deep admiration that I stand before you to recognize and honor Tom Murray, our esteemed alumnus advisor. For over two decades, he has been our bedrock, devoting his time, wisdom, and unwavering dedication to the Zeta Omicron chapter. His leadership has been instrumental in not only shaping the character of the chapter, but the character of us all. In a world where commitment and loyalty can sometimes be scarce, he has been this chapter’s cornerstone.

I especially want to acknowledge what I think is the most impactful example of Tom’s character. In 2010, during the most difficult time for us as a chapter, Tom’s dedication, presence, and character never wavered as we dealt with an unspeakable act that ultimately took years for us to recover from. At the same time, he was quietly carrying the weight of his beloved wife Beth’s fight with cancer, and later the sorrow from her unfortunate passing. Yet, in the face of unimaginable adversity after losing his Rose, Tom remained steadfast and constant, always laboring for our success.

Those who join us tonight that do not know, the flowers of the order are the crimson rose and the magnolia blossom, as symbolized in our crest. Like KA, Tom, you have done us the honor of bringing the two beautiful flowers in your life, into ours. Tom we are grateful for your rose and for the time she shared you with us, but we are just as grateful for the sacrifices and patience of your beautiful Magnolia Blossom, Ms. Rita.

Beyond his remarkable service to Zeta Omicron, Tom is a man of extraordinary accomplishments. A retired Lieutenant Colonel of the U.S. Army – he dedicated over two decades of his life in service to our nation, exemplifying the principles of honor, duty, and commitment. Tom is a member of KAOEF’s Crimson and Gold Society, and he also holds the esteemed position of Preceptor of the Traylor Court of Honor, a role that reflects his standing as a distinguished leader within our Fraternity. He is also a member of the Candler Court of Honor and has served on the advisory board of his undergraduate chapter, Delta Nu at Murray State.

I want to conclude with this. A hundred years ago almost to this very day, on a cold winter’s night in the nation’s capital, former Knight Commander John Temple Graves delivered a toast to honor the gentility and chivalry of KAs spiritual founder, whose lofty example inspired the creation of our Order, its ritual, mottos, and creeds, and has been the beacon to sustain our brotherhood for over 158 years. I will be invoking the spirit of Graves’ toast tonight, to honor a man who we deem Zeta Omicron’s spiritual founder.

His example has taught us to be leaders among men, to be courteous and magnanimous as becomes a true Knight of this prestigious Order. Our accomplishments as a chapter have been many, but they are all owed to him. May his example continue to inspire us and may his legacy guide future generations within our beloved chapter. Brother Knights, let us raise our glasses, toast, and give thanks to Lieutenant Colonel Tom Murray – a faithful brother, true gentleman, mentor, and friend.

It has been a longstanding tradition of this chapter to present an Alumnus of the Year award at each convivium. The Southern Indiana Alumni Association voted unanimously today, minus you Tom of course, to change this award to be named in your honor. Not only will this distinction bear your name, but those who are awarded it must exemplify your highest ideals of service and dedication to their community and to the Order. This will now be known as the LTC Thomas R. Murray Distinguished Alumnus award.