Brethren of the Mystic Tie
August Summons 2025
We will be holding our next stated meeting at Norton Moses Masonic Lodge #336 on August 23, 2025, at 4:30 PM.
After lodge, please join us for harmony at: Freda’s Seafood Grille, where we will host Brother Wayne White of John R. Heisner Lodge #442 - San Diego, CA.
Brother Wayne White is an American explorer, veteran, public-health expert, Freemason, and three-time Winter Site Manager (2017–2020) at the Amundsen‑Scott South Pole Station - an unprecedented achievement. As winter manager, he was responsible for the health and safety of ~42 crew members, station infrastructure, and all scientific assets during Antarctica's brutal winters. Wayne is a modern-day polar explorer who melds technical competence, military discipline, and deep respect for the human spirit. His story is one of resilience, adventure, leadership under extreme isolation, and keeping community alive in one of the most remote places on Earth.
He’ll share stories you won’t hear anywhere else on resilience, Masonic values in action, and the incredible bond that forms in extreme brotherhood. Bring a Brother. Invite a Guest. Fill the Room. This night is meant to be shared and we’d love to have you with us.
Sincerely & Fraternally,
W:. Thomas D. McGuire, APM
Robert Burns Lodge #127
Adieu, a heart warm, fond adieu, Dear brothers of the mystic tie! Ye favored, ye enlightened few, Companions of my social joy!
Masonic Membership:
John R. Heisner Lodge #442 - San Diego Ca. (fun note -- nearest cross street is Texas St.)
Background & Expeditions
Military and contractor expertise: Served as a U.S. Marine Corps radio operator; over two decades of remote assignments—from Diego Garcia and Midway to Iraq, Kuwait, Afghanistan, Ascension Island, and more.
Explorer credentials:
Undertook solo expeditions to New Guinea (six times), the Amazon—where he famously "was reported killed" on a flight in Africa.
Education:
BA in Geography (Cal State Fullerton), MPH in Environmental Health Sciences (Tulane)
Life at the South Pole:
Three winters in a row: Managed continuous operations—through darkness for four months and extreme cold—walking roughly 4,300 miles across the polar plateau. See review
Leadership & community:
Combined Marine discipline with the legacy of explorers like Amundsen, Shackleton, and Scott. Instituted morale-boosting events—movie nights, explorer lectures, themed gatherings—and led with compassion.
Lifelong influence:
Blended technical oversight (health & safety, station systems, science missions) with human-centered management—his infamous mustache even became a symbol of camaraderie .
Writings & Recognition:
Memoir: Cold: Three Winters at the South Pole - Captivating firsthand account of life in isolation; praised for deep insight into leadership in remote environments. See review
Public speaking:
Featured at venues like the Adventurers' Club of Los Angeles, The Explorers Club, more.
Awards & affiliations:
Member of the Explorers Club (NY), Adventurers' Club (LA), Old Antarctic Explorers Association (current president); received their “Adventurer of the Year” award in 2020
