  Our brothers careers have been productive, constructive, spirited, and prosaic. They displayed impressive skills, talents, and abilities They were, and we continue to be, a beautiful and lively expression of our enduring fraternal beliefs, and that underlying harmony is far-reaching in expectation for all brothers’, undergraduate and graduate. It is the core of what our fraternal founders asserted in 1848 and 1874 and 1899: to live active, commendable, and responsible lives, and to build up community. Clearly and compellingly, they added, and continue to add, positive value at the local, state, national, global, and fraternal level because they engaged life fully and responsibly. In short, they were authoritative pillars throughout life. They were-are exemplary in their citizenship, character, and their sense of dutiful responsibility, and, in many instances, they were leading voices in their career fields. They prove that success of any kind does not occur by luck or accident, and we remember them because they continue to provide that message for our time. Their spirit permeates our brotherhood, and it always will. We have long been, from one generation to the next, proud to be Omega Mu Fijis. We continue to cherish our fraternal friendships, our shared memories, and our evolving, forward-focused history at the University of Maine. These things, above and beyond everything else, are the underlying rooted connections that make us proud to be Omega Mu Fijis. Why, after all, should we believe otherwise? We have always exhibited a can-do fraternal spirit since 1874. And, to be sure, all present and future generations of Omega Mu Fijis will continue to do the same, with fraternal enthusiasm and commitment. As a brotherhood, we always see the path behind us and the way forward with equal clarity, and our future remains bright at 79 College Avenue because we fearlessly move forward, always guided by sound fraternal principles, and because of that we are an exceptional brotherhood because we remain committed and hardworking to assure that our Omega Mu brotherhood will continue to be the jewel at the University of Maine. Perge. Omega Mu Portrait Frederick D. Potter, 1879
  It is safe to say that Frederick D. Potter is sitting with his Q. T. V. brothers in this photo in 1876.
"July, 1876, the new chapter hall was ready for occupancy. The entire expense of its erection was borne by the members and this demanded from them considerable self-sacrifice and loyalty. As this was the first fraternity chapter built in the State, it surely must have been a building to be proud of"  "The Q. T. V. Hall, erected in 1876 by the labor of members of the fraternity, stood where Coburn Hal is now."  Coburn Hall     "QUARTERMASTER, F. D. POTTER"           Edison Electric Light Company   Frederick Potter was an electrical engineer in the Edison Electric Light Company, and he was responsible for installing light and power units in companies, factories, theaters, and hotels.        Frederick D. Potter drew up the plans to electrify the Tokyo Imperial Palace, home of the Japanese Emperor. Inventor  Like Thomas A. Edison, Frederick D. Potter was a prolific inventor.               Edison Pioneers   In 1918, Frederick D. Potter helped found the Edison Pioneers, an organization of those who had worked with Thomas A. Edison.    Frederick D. Potter was one of the vice presidents of the Edison Pioneers  The Edison Pioneers Frederick D. Potter is most likely in the photo.   "One of 2 surviving members of the Edison Pioneers dies at 88-- Invented Optical Pyrometer."    “What if the space be long and wide, That parts us from our brother’s side A soul-joined chain unites our band, And memory links us hand in hand.” (Phi Gamma Delta fraternity song)   Fraternally,
Chip Chapman, ’82 Perge
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Our brothers careers have been productive, constructive, spirited, and prosaic. They displayed impressive skills, talents, and abilities They were, and we continue to be, a beautiful and lively expression of our enduring fraternal beliefs, and that underlying harmony is far-reaching in expectation for all brothers’, undergraduate and graduate. It is the core of what our fraternal founders asserted in 1848 and 1874 and 1899: to live active, commendable, and responsible lives, and to build up community. Clearly and compellingly, they added, and continue to add, positive value at the local, state, national, global, and fraternal level because they engaged life fully and responsibly. In short, they were authoritative pillars throughout life. They were-are exemplary in their citizenship, character, and their sense of dutiful responsibility, and, in many instances, they were leading voices in their career fields. They prove that success of any kind does not occur by luck or accident, and we remember them because they continue to provide that message for our time. Their spirit permeates our brotherhood, and it always will. We have long been, from one generation to the next, proud to be Omega Mu Fijis. We continue to cherish our fraternal friendships, our shared memories, and our evolving, forward-focused history at the University of Maine. These things, above and beyond everything else, are the underlying rooted connections that make us proud to be Omega Mu Fijis. Why, after all, should we believe otherwise? We have always exhibited a can-do fraternal spirit since 1874. And, to be sure, all present and future generations of Omega Mu Fijis will continue to do the same, with fraternal enthusiasm and commitment. As a brotherhood, we always see the path behind us and the way forward with equal clarity, and our future remains bright at 79 College Avenue because we fearlessly move forward, always guided by sound fraternal principles, and because of that we are an exceptional brotherhood because we remain committed and hardworking to assure that our Omega Mu brotherhood will continue to be the jewel at the University of Maine. Perge. Omega Mu Portrait George E. Young, 1913  Omega Mu Years       Omega Mu Brotherhood With Unknown Omega Mu Housemother      "The house was prettily decorated in evergreens and Xmas bells intermingled with frosted stars."   "At intermission harlequin and cakes were served."      G. E. Young  University of Vermont Medical School      George Edgar Young...Skowhegan, Me.     Dr. George E. Young Was An Authority On The Treatment Of Tuberculosis  Young Surgical Center: Central Maine Sanatorium After graduating from the University of Vermont Medical School, George E. Young was a physician in Skowhegan, Maine for over four decades, but also the Chief Surgeon at the Central Maine Sanatorium in Fairfield, Maine. His significance went far beyond those two responsibilities. He was widely recognized as an authority, innovator, and pioneer in the treatment of tuberculosis, in lung surgery, and in radiology. Due to his many accomplishments, Dr. Young was honored in 1955 when the surgical center at the Central Maine Sanatorium was renamed the Young Surgical Center, and that is a wonderful accomplishment for his dedicated service to his patients and the treatment of the disease.   Young Surgical Building  The Young Surgical Building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2021. "The Young Building is equipped with modern x-ray equipment and good laboratory facilities."  "The Young Building is equipped with modern x-ray equipment and good laboratory facilities...Thoracic surgery is performed by...Dr. George Young."   Dr. George E. Young was a close friend of Dr. H. Richard Hornberger, Jr., the author of all the M*A*S*H books that he wrote under the nickname of Richard Hooker.  Dr. H. Richard Hornberger, Jr. outside his tent during the Korea War  “What if the space be long and wide, That parts us from our brother’s side A soul-joined chain unites our band, And memory links us hand in hand.” (Phi Gamma Delta fraternity song)    Fraternally,
Chip Chapman, ’82 Perge Truthfully, there is no fraternal brotherhood quite like Omega Mu at the University of Maine. We are proud of our history, and we are proud of the impressive number of fraternal brothers who played on many University of Maine athletic teams. In addition, we are equally proud of our brothers participated achieved national and international recognition in sports With conviction and commitment, our Omega Mu athlete brothers brought a great deal of joy and satisfaction to the university community, creating many wonderful memories since the first baseball team was established at Maine State College in the 1870's. The worked together for the success of each Maine team, and the overall civic good of the University of Maine. The sheer number of Omega Mu athlete brothers is an unqualified triumph for the University of Maine. Their positive impact on the University of Maine community cannot be overstated. They each gave their best efforts on each team, and what they achieved perfectly compliments what we fraternally believe: drive and determination. It is a heady athletic legacy. Accordingly, their accomplishments claim our fraternal attention and respect. For the eminence of their athletic success; and, above all, for being our Omega Mu brothers, we are proud. Therefore, in the linked soul and spirit of our long fraternal history, we gratefully remember and celebrate our QTV and Omega Mu brothers who participated on many varsity athletic teams at the University of Maine. Our scorecard is deep, and we appreciate, and we are proud of, all of our Omega Mu athlete brothers. Thoreau said it best: “What a difference, whether in all your walks, you meet only strangers, or in one house is one who knows you, and whom you know. To have a brother…How rare these things are.” How true that is, and we remain that way to this day. Omega Mu Athlete Lewis B. Varney, 1934  Omega Mu Years          "PHI GAMMA DELTA HAS A DELIGHTFUL HOUSE PARTY"  "Amid a beautiful array of flowers, the Phi Gam's and their guests from near and far sat down Friday evening to a formal banquet, starting off the annual house party."    "Music by Buddy Borst and his orchestra from Providence."    Phi Gam Sophomore Smoker    "The meeting was an informal get-together to promote good fellowship and class feeling. Games were played and refreshments served. The meeting concluded with an exchange of stories and group singing around the fire." University Of Maine Athlete                     “What if the space be long and wide, That parts us from our brother’s side A soul-joined chain unites our band, And memory links us hand in hand.” (Phi Gamma Delta fraternity song)    Fraternally,
Chip Chapman, ’82 Perge Our brothers careers have been productive, constructive, spirited, and prosaic. They displayed impressive skills, talents, and abilities They were, and we continue to be, a beautiful and lively expression of our enduring fraternal beliefs, and that underlying harmony is far-reaching in expectation for all brothers’, undergraduate and graduate. It is the core of what our fraternal founders asserted in 1848 and 1874 and 1899: to live active, commendable, and responsible lives, and to build up community. Clearly and compellingly, they added, and continue to add, positive value at the local, state, national, global, and fraternal level because they engaged life fully and responsibly. In short, they were authoritative pillars throughout life. They were-are exemplary in their citizenship, character, and their sense of dutiful responsibility, and, in many instances, they were leading voices in their career fields. They prove that success of any kind does not occur by luck or accident, and we remember them because they continue to provide that message for our time. Their spirit permeates our brotherhood, and it always will. We have long been, from one generation to the next, proud to be Omega Mu Fijis. We continue to cherish our fraternal friendships, our shared memories, and our evolving, forward-focused history at the University of Maine. These things, above and beyond everything else, are the underlying rooted connections that make us proud to be Omega Mu Fijis. Why, after all, should we believe otherwise? We have always exhibited a can-do fraternal spirit since 1874. And, to be sure, all present and future generations of Omega Mu Fijis will continue to do the same, with fraternal enthusiasm and commitment. As a brotherhood, we always see the path behind us and the way forward with equal clarity, and our future remains bright at 79 College Avenue because we fearlessly move forward, always guided by sound fraternal principles, and because of that we are an exceptional brotherhood because we remain committed and hardworking to assure that our Omega Mu brotherhood will continue to be the jewel at the University of Maine. Perge. Omega Mu Portrait George P. Merrill, 1879    It is a safe bet to believe that George P. Merrill is sitting with his Q. T. V. brothers in front of the house in 1876.   July, 1876 The entire expense of its erection was borne by the members and this demanded from them considerable self-sacrifice and loyalty. As this was the first fraternity chapter built in the State, it surely must have been a building to be proud of."  "The Q. T. V. Hall, erected in 1876 by the labor of members of the fraternity, stood where Coburn Hall is now."  "The first meeting place of fraternities on the Maine campus was in this building which was constructed in 1876 for the Q.T.V. fraternity which later became Phi Gamma Delta. The building stood in the present site of Coburn Hall....First secret society in college, 1874"    "Second Lieut., G. P. Merrill"     Merrill, George Perkins    Graduate Work   George P. Merrill did post graduate work at Wesleyan University from 1879-1880. and he was an assistant in the chemistry.    George P. Merrill did additional graduate work at Johns Hopkins University from 1886-1887.  Professor at George Washington University   George P. Hitchings was a professor of geology and mineralogy at George Washington University from 1893-1916. Head Of The Department Of Geology Of Smithsonian Museum Of Natural History  George P. Hitchings name is indelibly connected with the Smithsonian Institution. In 1897 George P. Hitching worked at the United States National Museum, later renamed the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History, for over forty years. In 1897 was appointed the head curator of geology, and he achieved numerous accomplishments in geology, and he was a recognized as a leading authority in the study of meteorites. He was recognized nationally and internationally as an eminent scientist in geology, meteorology, mineralogy. He left behind an enriching scientific heritage that is appreciatively viewed by countless numbers of people who visit the Smithsonian Museum.  Geology Rooms in the Smithsonian Museum  George P. Merrill in one of the geology rooms the Smithsonian, above and below.     Meteorites Discovered by George P. Merrill 
Merrill Crater  "The Department of Interior has announced that a large crater in Coconino County, Arizona, near the Coconino National Forest will hereafter be known as Merrill Crater, in honor of the late Dr. George P. Merrill (Maine, '79)"  "Dr. Merrill was the world's foremost authority on Meteors, having written more than 60 scientific papers on the projectiles which strike the earth from outer space. The crater is the grave of a meteor."  "SAYS METEOR MADE CRATER" Author    "The STORY OF METEORITES By George P. Merrill"
    Jane Addams  The Foremost Woman In America  Jane Addams was a leader in the women's suffrage movement, the founder of Hull House in Chicago, and one of the founders of the A.C.L.U. and the N.A.A.C.P.  "But what is more important Farrington could probably give a personal letter to Dr. G.P. Merrill, Curator of the Department of Geology at the Smithsonian or give important and helpful advice."  "Consult Dr. Merrill, the head of the Department of Geology at the National Museum, for his scientific report on the actual value of the (meteorite) collection to the museum would be the basis for whatever action is taken by the Museum or Congress. He is a most approachable and delightful man, but quite direct and much in earnest."  A letter written by George Merrill to B. J. Harrington at McGill University. Smithsonian Institution   George P. Merrill is sitting in the fourth, middle, wearing glasses, looking up to the right. National Academy of Sciences   In 1922 George P. Merrill was elected into the National Academy of Sciences, and he was awarded the J. Lawrence Smith Gold Medal for his research into meteorites. He was one of the first University of Maine graduates to receive such an honor, creating an enduring legacy which exists to this day for the university and our Omega Mu brotherhood.   At home in Maine. Reunion  Omega Mu Brothers in the photo: Charles A. Morse, Dr. George E. Merrill, and Wilbur F. Decker.    "Search For Truth Is The Noblest Occupation Of Man. It's Publication A Duty."  “What if the space be long and wide, That parts us from our brother’s side A soul-joined chain unites our band, And memory links us hand in hand.” (Phi Gamma Delta fraternity song)    Fraternally,
Chip Chapman, ’82 Perge Our Omega Mu veteran-brothers who served in the military are cherished and constant fraternal friends, and we would like to say thank you for the steadfast, purposeful commitment you made to our nation to defend those four freedoms we all believe in: “Freedom of speech, freedom of worship, freedom from want, and freedom from fear.” For those brothers who were killed in defense of these freedoms, they will always occupy a consecrated place in our linked fraternal heart because they exemplify the idea of superlative commitment, strength, and fortitude for the good to the end itself. The greatness of their collective purpose and will, on our nation’s behalf, will never be forgotten. By their “clear-eyed faith and fearless heart,” these brothers have left us a fraternal legacy that echoes what we often say about Omega Mu Fijis: “Perseverance and determination are omnipotent.” Their code of integrity, courage, duty, responsibility, and self-sacrifice on behalf of our nation is a powerful legacy we can all be proud of as Omega Mu Fijis. Whether it was at New Orleans, Red River, Fort Blakely, Marianna, San Juan Hill, Santiago de Cuba, Seicheprey, Chateau-Thierry, Verdun, El Guettar, Elba, Monte Della Vedetta, the Battle of the Bulge, Rabaul, Inchon, Pusan, Chosin Reservoir, Pork Chop Hill, Hue, Easter Offensive, Phu Cat, The Iron Triangle, Hamburger Hill, la Drang Valley, Bien Hoa, Khe Sanh, Rumaila, Al-Batin, Medina Ridge, Kabul, Kandahar, our Omega Mu brothers have demonstrated devotion to duty in defense of freedom and liberty. They are the stability of our nation, and we, the Omega Mu brotherhood, revere, honor, and salute their persevering and determined spirit within our great nation and our historic brotherhood. We will always honor the heroism of all of our brothers who have served in the armed forces from the Civil War to the present. Thank you. Omega Mu Veteran Earle S. Peckham, 1919  Omega Mu Years            "The Phi Gams held a faculty smoker to which the professors of the university were invited. The evening was spent with smokes, cards, and refreshments."     "A new and better piano has been added to the music room and two large lamps, gifts of Charles W. Mullen and Penfield Mower, added to the appearance of the living and dining room."  Charles W. Mullen, '83     "Burke Bradbury, '16, shot a fine buck recently and the fellows enjoyed an excellent venison dinner on the following Sunday."  "The Phi Gams will have a sleigh ride to Eddington. Supper will be served at Ward's farm. After supper the party will go to the Town Hall where there will be dancing and a general good time."            CANADIAN OVER-SEAS EXPEDITIONARY FORCE  Peckham, Earle S. on Enlistment  OATH TO BE TAKEN BY MAN ON ATTESTATION Peckham, Earle Stuart  The United States declared war on Germany on April 2nd, 1917, and Earle S. Peckham enlisted in the Canadian Forestry Corps on June 15th, 1917, and he served in the Nova Scotia Forestry contingent of 525 men, and he served in Scotland, England, and France clearing and leveling land for airfields, as well as harvesting and processing timber for trenches, railroad ties, bridges, barracks, hospitals, and trench mats. These Canadian units produced 70% of all the lumber used by the Allied forces on the Western Front, and to commemorate their efforts that led to victory for the Allied Forces, they built a small wooden cabin near Windsor Castle when the war ended on November 11th, 1918.                      Commemorating the end of World War I at the University of Maine.   “What if the space be long and wide, That parts us from our brother’s side A soul-joined chain unites our band, And memory links us hand in hand.” (Phi Gamma Delta fraternity song)    Fraternally,
Chip Chapman, ’82 Perge Our Omega Mu veteran-brothers who served in the military are cherished and constant fraternal friends, and we would like to say thank you for the steadfast, purposeful commitment you made to our nation to defend those four freedoms we all believe in: “Freedom of speech, freedom of worship, freedom from want, and freedom from fear.” For those brothers who were killed in defense of these freedoms, they will always occupy a consecrated place in our linked fraternal heart because they exemplify the idea of superlative commitment, strength, and fortitude for the good to the end itself. The greatness of their collective purpose and will, on our nation’s behalf, will never be forgotten. By their “clear-eyed faith and fearless heart,” these brothers have left us a fraternal legacy that echoes what we often say about Omega Mu Fijis: “Perseverance and determination are omnipotent.” Their code of integrity, courage, duty, responsibility, and self-sacrifice on behalf of our nation is a powerful legacy we can all be proud of as Omega Mu Fijis. Whether it was at New Orleans, Red River, Fort Blakely, Marianna, San Juan Hill, Santiago de Cuba, Seicheprey, Chateau-Thierry, Verdun, El Guettar, Elba, Monte Della Vedetta, the Battle of the Bulge, Rabaul, Inchon, Pusan, Chosin Reservoir, Pork Chop Hill, Hue, Easter Offensive, Phu Cat, The Iron Triangle, Hamburger Hill, la Drang Valley, Bien Hoa, Khe Sanh, Rumaila, Al-Batin, Medina Ridge, Kabul, Kandahar, our Omega Mu brothers have demonstrated devotion to duty in defense of freedom and liberty. They are the stability of our nation, and we, the Omega Mu brotherhood, revere, honor, and salute their persevering and determined spirit within our great nation and our historic brotherhood. We will always honor the heroism of all of our brothers who have served in the armed forces from the Civil War to the present. Thank you. Omega Mu Veteran Frank W. Hagan, Jr., 1933  Omega Mu Years     1932 Initiation         "The house was decorated with lights. During intermission refreshments were served."   "PHI GAM SOPHOMORES HOLD SMOKER FOR '35ERS   PhI GAMMA DELTA HAS DELIGHTFUL HOUSE PARTY  'Amid a beautiful array of flowers, the Phi Gam's and their guests from near and far sat down Friday evening to a formal banquet, starting off the annual house party."  "Later in the evening, the formal dance, with music by Buddy Borst and his orchestra from Providence, was held."   The University of Maine Quartet playing in the Castle, and two of them are our brothers: Herbert G. Follett and Neil M. Calderwood. Kappa Phi Kappa National Education Fraternity                Frank Hagan served in the Pacific Theater of operations in the United States Navy Seabees                              “What if the space be long and wide, That parts us from our brother’s side A soul-joined chain unites our band, And memory links us hand in hand.” (Phi Gamma Delta fraternity song)    Fraternally,
Chip Chapman, ’82 Perge Truthfully, there is no fraternal brotherhood quite like Omega Mu at the University of Maine. We are proud of our history, and we are proud of the impressive number of fraternal brothers who played on many University of Maine athletic teams. In addition, we are equally proud of our brothers participated achieved national and international recognition in sports With conviction and commitment, our Omega Mu athlete brothers brought a great deal of joy and satisfaction to the university community, creating many wonderful memories since the first baseball team was established at Maine State College in the 1870's. The worked together for the success of each Maine team, and the overall civic good of the University of Maine. The sheer number of Omega Mu athlete brothers is an unqualified triumph for the University of Maine. Their positive impact on the University of Maine community cannot be overstated. They each gave their best efforts on each team, and what they achieved perfectly compliments what we fraternally believe: drive and determination. It is a heady athletic legacy. Accordingly, their accomplishments claim our fraternal attention and respect. For the eminence of their athletic success; and, above all, for being our Omega Mu brothers, we are proud. Therefore, in the linked soul and spirit of our long fraternal history, we gratefully remember and celebrate our QTV and Omega Mu brothers who participated on many varsity athletic teams at the University of Maine. Our scorecard is deep, and we appreciate, and we are proud of, all of our Omega Mu athlete brothers. Thoreau said it best: “What a difference, whether in all your walks, you meet only strangers, or in one house is one who knows you, and whom you know. To have a brother…How rare these things are.” How true that is, and we remain that way to this day. Omega Mu Athlete Stephen A. Getchell, 1958  Omega Mu Years   Omega Mu Housemother Mrs. Tate             "Phi Gamma Delta Christmas Dance.....party favors: red and white striped night shirts and caps with Fiji on the pocket."     "The Phi Gam house was decorated on a French Cafe theme for the formal Friday night."   "Phi Gam entertained Friday at a jam session, with Dale Whitney and his orchestra."   "A Trip to the Moon"   "Silver stars and moon maiden decorated the house and Jack McDonough and his orchestra provided the music...At intermission the pledges were presented with bouquets of wine carnations"  1956 Fiji Island     "Couples danced the music of Sammy Saliba's orchestra." University of Maine Athlete       "Steve Getchell took fourth at the Maine State Match."   (Getchell) "He turned in an outstanding job at the State championship matches, carding a 160 for the 36 holes of medal play. He finished just two strokes behind the winner."  "Co-Captain...Steve Getchell"   “What if the space be long and wide, That parts us from our brother’s side A soul-joined chain unites our band, And memory links us hand in hand.” (Phi Gamma Delta fraternity song)    Fraternally,
Chip Chapman, ’82 Perge From multiple angles, our Q.T.V. and Omega Mu brothers have enriched the civic life at the University of Maine, and we are fortunate to have had many hardworking, talented brothers throughout our history. The balance between our athletic involvement, intellectual pursuits, and campus involvement is compelling. What they accomplished in their respective pursuits at the university constitutes a wonderful achievement in our fraternal history. There efforts were good and laudable, and there efforts represented the very best of our core values of persistence and determination. It is, believe me, a wonderful achievement, on the part of generations of Omega Mu brothers, for the respective gifts that they gave for the civic good at the University of Maine. In our historically calm, customary fashion, 149 years and growing, it was a rich yield for the common good of the Maine community, All of them, through their various commitments and endeavors within the University of Maine community, improved and brightened up the quality of life of the university community with their enthusiasm and dedication to their respective University of Maine teams, organizations, and clubs. They each had uniques strengths as actors, artists, musicians, athletes, and journalists, and they all embodied the shared commitment to do something well for the University of Maine community. Fraternally integrity demands that, and we are proud of all of these brothers. Over the years, our Omega Mu brothers have been involved in many musical productions at the University of Maine, and praise for them is merited. With the same unconditional focus, diligence and discipline as our athlete brothers, our musically focused brothers, through many decades, brought richness ands joy to the University of Maine community because of their involvement on various bands, orchestras, and choral groups. Their commitment was compelling, and the quality and depth of their art form enriched the lives of countless generations of students at the university, as well as many towns and cities throughout Maine and New England. Generously, with never-ending joy and inspiration, they always gave of their time and talent for the good in all of their musical performances. The embodied our old fraternal truth in being perseverant and determined in being faithful and generous with their beautiful musical gifts. Our Omega Mu Maine music brothers, just like our athlete and Maine Masque brothers, are an enriching testament to what it means to be a fraternity brother in Omega Mu. We remain proud of their dedication, creativity, and commitment in adding such a rich angle in our fraternal history at the University of Maine. Above all, what a superb gift to give anyone: music. Omega Mu Portrait Paul S. Armstrong, 1921  Omega Mu Years       Paul Armstrong is first on the left in the second row down from the top.    "Delegates from the New England chapters of Phi Gamma Delta fraternity, met at Orono, March 8 and 9, for the annual convention of Section One.....Dean J. N. hart, a member of the fraternity, extended a welcome from the University to the visiting delegates."  Omega Mu Brother, Dean J. N. Hart  "One week ago Sunday evening a red light appeared once more at the entrance of the Phi Gamma Delta house and eleven men started on a long, long journey. The initiation which was one of the most successful ones ever held at "Fiji Castle," as terminated by a banquet at the Bangor House on Friday evening."    "The Freshmen at Phi Gamma Delta were the hosts on Thursday evening, at the first of the Freshman Smokers, which are given at the fraternity each year."     "Phi Gam looks forward with the greatest pleasure to the coming weekend, knowing one of the best house parties ever held in the house will begin Friday night and terminate Sunday night."    "Skeet Plummer's Ford did not prove very slow in returning from Old Town the other day. I spite of the heavy load of seven passengers it made the trip in six minutes."     Assistant Manager P. S. Armstrong  Business Manager....P. S. Armstrong   "Business Manager, Paul Armstrong, '21, has arranged the following schedule of public concerts."  Paul S, Armstrong....President and Manager    Second Basses P. S. Armstrong   Second Basses Paul S. Armstrong    Second Bass P. S. Armstrong      Associate Editors Paul S. Armstrong   “What if the space be long and wide, That parts us from our brother’s side A soul-joined chain unites our band, And memory links us hand in hand.” (Phi Gamma Delta fraternity song)    Fraternally,
Chip Chapman, ’82 Perge Our Omega Mu veteran-brothers who served in the military are cherished and constant fraternal friends, and we would like to say thank you for the steadfast, purposeful commitment you made to our nation to defend those four freedoms we all believe in: “Freedom of speech, freedom of worship, freedom from want, and freedom from fear.” For those brothers who were killed in defense of these freedoms, they will always occupy a consecrated place in our linked fraternal heart because they exemplify the idea of superlative commitment, strength, and fortitude for the good to the end itself. The greatness of their collective purpose and will, on our nation’s behalf, will never be forgotten. By their “clear-eyed faith and fearless heart,” these brothers have left us a fraternal legacy that echoes what we often say about Omega Mu Fijis: “Perseverance and determination are omnipotent.” Their code of integrity, courage, duty, responsibility, and self-sacrifice on behalf of our nation is a powerful legacy we can all be proud of as Omega Mu Fijis. Whether it was at New Orleans, Red River, Fort Blakely, Marianna, San Juan Hill, Santiago de Cuba, Seicheprey, Chateau-Thierry, Verdun, El Guettar, Elba, Monte Della Vedetta, the Battle of the Bulge, Rabaul, Inchon, Pusan, Chosin Reservoir, Pork Chop Hill, Hue, Easter Offensive, Phu Cat, The Iron Triangle, Hamburger Hill, la Drang Valley, Bien Hoa, Khe Sanh, Rumaila, Al-Batin, Medina Ridge, Kabul, Kandahar, our Omega Mu brothers have demonstrated devotion to duty in defense of freedom and liberty. They are the stability of our nation, and we, the Omega Mu brotherhood, revere, honor, and salute their persevering and determined spirit within our great nation and our historic brotherhood. We will always honor the heroism of all of our brothers who have served in the armed forces from the Civil War to the present. Thank you. Omega Mu Veteran Ernest L. Coolbroth, 1918
Omega Mu Years    "He's been riding on the band-wagon for three years tooting his piccolo...Bryan could find a good yodler in "Soup" for his Chautauqua lectures."    Alumni Smoker  
 
Charles W. Mullen Omega Mu, 1883 The new piano in the house.     Coolbroth    "E. L. Coolbroth, flute and piccolo"   Ernest L. Coobrother, first row, fourth one in from the right.    Marching on Stodder Commons; Carnegie Hall and Balentine Hall are behind.  The Cadet Band is in the middle of the picture marching from right to left.  The Cadet Band in Bangor.   The University of Maine Cadet Band was called into service from 1916-1917 with the 2nd Maine Infantry, and they were one of the only college bands to be called into military service during World War I. First, however, the University of Maine Band served on the Mexican border to protect the southern U.S. border from Mexican raids led by Pancho Villa. The band was to boost the morale of the National Guard units and the United States Army by having concerts and parades, and the Maine Cadet Band was the only college band to be in the United States Army stationed in Laredo, Texas.    Omega Mu Brothers Ernest L. Coolbroth and Bryant L. Hopkins went to the Mexican Border.  Bryant L. Hopkins   Leaving Orono       The Maine encampment, left.  The Maine Band in Laredo  "Hac, Currier, Brownie, King, Beckler, K. Brown, Page, Hanson, and Coolbroth all in one tent."  Ernest L. Coolbroth, first on the right, front row.  "Cheerful Coolbroth."   "Cooly, Gyp, Brownie and Richardson go down watermelon feed in town. Great time."  "Page, Beckler and Hanson had been working on our tent while Cooly slept."  "In the evening Brownie, Cooly, Gyp and Stoddard go to church to play - dates."  "Cooly goes home with a Miss White, They meet her steady and Cooly has to run for his life."   Maine Cadet Band playing "The Houn' Dog Rag" while they were in camp.  Colonel Frank Hume  "The paper gave the list of the regiment to be relieved and the Second Maine headed the list."  "The Second Florida is to relieve us."  "We marched four miles to the big parade ground where all the troops in the Laredo district were assembled."  "Pulled out of Laredo at 11:25."  "Cooly's folks arrive with a chicken dinner which goes fine. Rest of the day spent in entertaining."   Streamer for the Mexican Border Campaign, 1916-1917. World War I The University Of Maine Band During World War I    The University of Maine Cadet Band was called into service from 1916-1917 with the 2nd Maine Infantry, and they were one of the only college bands to be called into military service during World War I.    
  Band Sergeants "Coolbroth, Ernest L."  As the 103rd Infantry was on its way to France, the 103rd Infantry Band, still made up of the men from the University of Maine Band, caught sight of Hume's ship. Crowding to the railing of their own ship, they blared "The Houn' Dog Rag" over the waves for his benefit." "Bandmen Write Letter Of Thanks"  Band 103rd U. S. Infantry "Somewhere in France" December 29, 1917  "Ernest L. Coolbroth, '18" The history of the University of Maine Band, the only college unit in the State of Maine to take part in the Great War at the front as a unit...."   Chemin des-Dames  "The band headquarters was in the ruined village of Nanteuil-la-Fosse. Now began the band's service as stretcher-bearers with the battalion first-aid posts, which was to continue for six months, with only a few days service as musicians in all this time.
 Nanteuil-la-Fosse Toul Toul sector.     103rd Infantry around Toul.  "The formerly quiet quiet sector became more active with the appearance of U.S. troops, and the battle of Seicheprey was the first engagement in which the 26th Division took part."   "1st Battles in France in which Americans participated without aid of French was Bois Brule-Seicheprey."  103rd Infantry arriving in Seicheprey.    German artillery hitting Seicheprey. The American Command Post was behind the church.    In addition to performing concerts, the University of Maine bandsmen were ordered to be stretcher-bearers and go into no-man's land to find and retrieve the wounded, the gassed, and the dead.    "The band performed its work under a vicious gas bombardment, and one man from the band was evacuated, gassed"
 Monument honoring the 26th Division in Seicheprey. Apremont   103rd Infantry marching toward Apremont.   Apremont, France. "In this storm of steel one of the bandsmen, J. Arthur Stowell, a Colby man, met his death while giving first aird to a wounded man near X Wray. With the loss of this brave and fun-loving comrade, war became something more than an exciting game to the bandsmen."   Chateau-Thierry  "The band will remember the celebration the French inhabitants gave them on July 4th, with a very flattering speech by the Mayor, and bottles of vin rouge passed around the Mayor's pretty daughter."    "With the opening of the offensive at Chateau Thierry, the bandsmen were in the thick of one of the crucial battles of the war. For four days they toiled in the front line, moving forward continually, with almost no sleep an little to eat besides their small emergency rations, trying to cope with the tremendous stream of wounded. Half starved, staggering from fatigue, with blood-shot eyes, they continued their work till flesh and blood could stand no more.Man after man, the band dwindled to sixteen men." "The band dwindled to sixteen men,"  Chateau Thierry after the Germans retreated. Bar-le-Duc  Bar-le-Duc  "The band men were now hardened to the point where an all night twenty hike with a camel load of equipment, reinforced internally by tomato soup twice a day, meant only momentary discomfort. To add to their trouble, cold weather and a persistent rain kept them wet and chilled to the bone, and fires, even smoking, were prohibited." St. Remy    "Thanks to an order from Gen. Pershing, bandsmen were no longer allowed to act as stretcher-bearers; so they had the opportunity of watching the most colossal barrage American artillery ever put over."  General Pershing  German bunkers, above and below, in the woods around St. Remy.  Verdun  Verdun, the citadel is in the foreground.    "But the band's luck was still good, and the outfit reached the regiment safely at daybreak." Cote du Poivre   "At this time the band reached the height of its musical efficiency during it active service."  Cote du Poivre, above and below.   "The day before the armistice saw the band marching north from Verdun. When news of the armistice was received, the band was sent to the front line to play."  Armistice, November 11th   American soldiers celebrating the end of the World War I on November 11th. Montigny-le-roi   "The band then had the pleasure of playing the regiment back on its week-long march to Montigny-le-roi region..."  "There remained only the parade in Boston, April 25th, in which the musicians claimed to have developed a chest expansion of seven inches....With the demobilization of this unit, thirty of the finest comrades that two years of hardship and danger could reveal at their real worth, separated, a few to return to college, the rest to regain their positions in civil life."  Waiting to board the ship in Brest to go to Boston.  Arriving in Boston.    "The little history would be incomplete without a tribute to absolute loyalty of the bandmen to their work and their organization. The band was always a like a big family, in great contrast to the conditions on many other regimental bands. The old U. of M. band can safely claim for itself the honor of having put in more time at the front that any band in the A.E.F."  
 Commemorating the end of World War I at the University of Maine.  “What if the space be long and wide, That parts us from our brother’s side A soul-joined chain unites our band, And memory links us hand in hand.” (Phi Gamma Delta fraternity song)    Fraternally,
Chip Chapman, ’82 Perge Our Omega Mu veteran-brothers who served in the military are cherished and constant fraternal friends, and we would like to say thank you for the steadfast, purposeful commitment you made to our nation to defend those four freedoms we all believe in: “Freedom of speech, freedom of worship, freedom from want, and freedom from fear.” For those brothers who were killed in defense of these freedoms, they will always occupy a consecrated place in our linked fraternal heart because they exemplify the idea of superlative commitment, strength, and fortitude for the good to the end itself. The greatness of their collective purpose and will, on our nation’s behalf, will never be forgotten. By their “clear-eyed faith and fearless heart,” these brothers have left us a fraternal legacy that echoes what we often say about Omega Mu Fijis: “Perseverance and determination are omnipotent.” Their code of integrity, courage, duty, responsibility, and self-sacrifice on behalf of our nation is a powerful legacy that we will always be proud of as Omega Mu Fijis. Whether it was at New Orleans, Red River, Fort Blakely, Marianna, San Juan Hill, Santiago de Cuba, Chateau-Thierry, Verdun, El Guettar, Elba, Monte Della Vedetta, the Battle of the Bulge, Rabaul, Inchon, Pusan, Chosin Reservoir, Pork Chop Hill, Hue, Easter Offensive, Phu Cat, The Iron Triangle, Hamburger Hill, la Drang Valley, Bien Hoa, Khe Sanh, Rumaila, Al-Batin, Medina Ridge, Kabul, Kandahar, our Omega Mu brothers have demonstrated devotion to duty in defense of freedom and liberty. They are the stability of our nation, and we, the Omega Mu brotherhood, revere, honor, and salute their persevering and determined spirit within our great nation and our historic brotherhood. We will always honor the heroism of all of our brothers who have served in the armed forces from the Civil War to the present. Thank you. Omega Mu Veteran Clifford H. West, Jr., 1943
Omega Mu Years    Omega Mu Housemother, Mrs. Vickers   Omega Mu Housemother, Mrs. Walker   1940 Snow Sculpture        "The fraternity winner's impressively beautiful effort had the ubiquitous Maine Bear looking out over the campus from the top of a huge sphere of ice."   John D. Utterback- ""Designer and chief engineer"  1941 Snow Sculpture  "Phi Gam's snow sculpture last week was probably the most beautiful this university has ever seen."    "One of the finest examples of snow and ice sculpture at the carnival was the "spirit of light" executed mostly in ice by members of Phi Gamma Delta fraternity. It received honorable mention. Dudley Utterback was chief designer."  Dudley Utterback   
    World War II   Clifford H. West, Jr., was in the First Marine Division during World War II.         Clifford H. West, Jr. was part of the assault landing on Peleliu.  Landing craft, LTVs, moving toward the beaches of Peleliu.  Clifford H. West's description of the assault on Peleliu: "We thought the landing would be a piece of calk. We offloaded and circled in rendezvous positions. Our ships were still were still firing just a little way from us. Then they stated the waves going in for landing. Soon we stated to hear that there was difficulty. Boats were being blown up and the landing was being opposed. I was probably in the 5th or 6th wave. Boats were not getting to shore. They ran into protruding obstacles. Bodies and stuff were floating in the bay. By that time planes were still dive-bombing but the naval gunfire had stopped....I could not believe that there could be such a change...When we started we thought it was going to be a real picnic."        Clifford W. West, Jr. served as a forward air controller to provide accurate information on enemy targets in order to coordinate and control air, artillery, and naval gunfire during the Battle of Peleliu. In this capacity, he was in constant contact with"Chesty"Puller with the information he was gathering from his forward position.  A Marine Corps F-4 Corsair dropping napalm on a Japanese held position in the mountains on Peleliu due to accurate information provided by Clifford H. West. Jr.  Chesty Puller, second from the left, on Peleliu.
Colonel Lewis "Chesty" Puller, one of the most celebrated Marine Corps officers. Clifford H. West's talking about Chesty Puller: "Puller was a real leader and fearless. When were pinned down there on Peleliu, he was walking around telling people to do this or move there, sometimes hollering at them if a person was cowering or not pulling his load. He was very severe with them. Just seeing him being as fearless as he was helped an awful lot. He was a good leader. He was like a bull in a china shop. He would push ahead a lot."     Clifford H. West was part of the assault landing on Okinawa with the 1st Marine Corps Regiment, and he was a forward air controller providing accurate information on enemy targets on the island.         When World War II ended, Clifford H. West was sent with the 1st Marine Corps Regiment to Tienstin, China.     The 1st Marine Corps Regiment was in Tienstin for occupation purposes, as well as to provide railroad protection from Peiping and Tienstin to Chinwangtao.   “What if the space be long and wide, That parts us from our brother’s side A soul-joined chain unites our band, And memory links us hand in hand.” (Phi Gamma Delta fraternity song)    Fraternally,
Chip Chapman, ’82 Perge |
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