Kappa Alpha Psi Marks 60th Anniversary of Order Leading to Military Desegregation by Giving Special Recognition to its Military Members

(Philadelphia, PA) - February 11, 2008 - On behalf of the Grand Board of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., and in recognition of the 60th Anniversary of the Presidential Order which led to the end of military segregation in the United States military services, the 31st Grand Polemarch, Dwayne M. Murray has poignantly asked all members to pray for those Brothers stationed in Iraq, Afghanistan and all other areas where our military are in harms way.

On July 26th, 1948 U.S. President Harry S. Truman penned "Executive Order 9981," which expanded equality to "all persons in the armed services without regard to race color, religion or national origin." Historians point to this order as the watershed moment for desegregation in the U.S. military. "The military has always been a leader of trends, " Murray said, "And, it is appropriate that during this historic occasion that we as a fraternity give special recognition to those fraternity members who have answered the call and to continue to support their' families, who's loved ones paid the ultimate sacrifice for love of country."

In making his statement, Grand Polemarch Murray encouraged every chapter to develop a special recognition of chapter members who are veterans o on active duty. "It gives me great pleasure to pay tribute and honor to our brothers serving in the military during these times of war and conflict, and we all as Kappa men should be equally proud," Murray stated.

Brothers of Kappa, a unique "Band of Brothers, have served in every major conflict since World War I. Our founding father, Elder Watson Diggs, served as a Captain in the US Army during WWI. That same example is seen today, as Kappas continue to volunteer to be in harms way."

Grand Polemarch Murray ended his statement saying he congratulates all of the Brothers who wear the uniform, "Their uncommon valor and selfless devotion to duty and this nation are a fine example of personal commitment and the quintessential example of brotherhood."