The Independent Order of Odd Fellows laid wreaths at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Virginia, earlier this month.

Nicole B. Inama, a member of Harmony Lodge #86 in Tamaqua, was selected to represent Pennsylvania.

“It was really an honor to do,” said Inama, of Lake Hauto. “I enjoyed doing it and it meant a lot to me to have the opportunity.”

She is active in the local Odd Fellows Lodge, as well as Lady Harmony Rebekah Lodge #86 where she serves as treasurer, Scott Encampment #132, and is on the Odd Fellows Cemetery board.

Inama also holds a state position with the Department Council, Patriarchs Militant, the Uniformed Branch of the Odd Fellows, and this year is serving on an international level as Bugler General of the General Military Council, IOOF.

A 2005 graduate of Tamaqua Area High School, Inama is employed as a pharmacist.

Also laying the wreath with Inama were Grand Master of the Grand Lodge Shirley Whitlinger of Pittsburgh; Grand High Priest of the Grand Encampment Laura Huchel of Johnstown and Past LAPM President Kate Walters of Granville Summit.

Four other Tamaqua residents belonging to the Odd Fellows Lodge have also laid wreaths at the Tomb including Charles Bailey, Paul Miller, Tyler Arnold and Justin Bailey.

The Pilgrimage to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is in its 88th year, where Odd Fellows and Rebekahs from all over the world pay respects at the Arlington National Cemetery. The Grand Decoration of Chivalry, the Odd Fellows’ highest decoration, was bestowed upon these unknown soldiers posthumously, and are on display at the museum in Arlington, Virginia.

For more information on the Odd Fellows and Rebekahs in Tamaqua, contact the Facebook group at IOOF Harmony and Lady Harmony Rebekah Lodge, or email harmony86ioof@yahoo.com.