Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War (SUVCW)

Series of 2005-2006

Department Order No. 11

Headquarters, Department of Maryland, April 22, 2006

Brothers it is with a heavy heart that I announce the passing of one of our Past Department Commanders from the Maryland Department. I received word Thursday night that PDC Robert Eck passed away in his sleep on Sunday April 16, 2006. He was laid to rest on Friday April 21, 2006 in Roanoke, Virginia where he lived. PCINC Andy Johnson has provided the following memorial to Brother Eck:

“Robert J Eck, of Dutch descent, served as Department commander 1999-2000. He was a founder of the Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain Camp in Roanoke, VA. Bob had been an officer (perhaps commander) of the Oliver Tilden Camp in New York City where he worked for many years in the public schools.  He followed his wife to Roanoke about 1995 where she pursued a career in nursing.  Bob became active in camp formation while working his way into the teaching staff in his new home area.  He was a hard working and inspirational leader who forged a useful relationship with the sons of confederate veterans while recruiting loyal sons deep in the valley of Virginia.  Bob and his family were welcome everywhere as charming hard working Americans but Bob was always in demand wherever a bagpiper was needed.  He marched in a thousand parades, played a thousand marches on his pipes, and is remembered wherever the pipes skirl and Boys in Blue are remembered.”

In remembrance of our departed Brother, I hereby Order the Department Charter, the Department Website and all Camp Charters be draped in black for a period of thirty days. Please keep Brother Eck’s family and his camp in your prayers.

In Fraternity, Charity, and Loyalty,

James R. Hanby, Sr. Maryland Department Commander