A banquet was recently held at the Tyrone Area High School cafeteria to honor the members of the Tyrone Area FFA.
Tyrone’s Future Farmers of America chapter is celebrating its 70th anniversary this year.
In 1938, Warriors Mark-Franklin High School first established classes in vocational agriculture. That year a charter was also instituted for the Tyrone Area Future Farmers of America Chapter.
Twenty area men were the original members of the Tyrone Area FFA, at first called the Warriors Mark FFA. Those men included Robert Peterson, President; Jim Clark, Vice President; Alfred Behrer, Treasurer; George Rossman, Secretary/Reporter; Clair Baney; James Baney; Harey Carper; Steve Cushion; Bill Geist; Dick Gensimore; Walt Gensimore; Calvin Harris; Earl Jones; Dick Marshall; Joe Sills; Don Smith; John Stover; Ronald Taylor; Russel Taylor and John Wilson.
Over the years, eight Tyrone teachers have served the district including Mr. Joseph Miller (1938-1944); Mr. Leslie Moyer (1944-1950); Mr. John Bennett (1950-1951); Mr. Ernest Mackey (1951-1953); Mr. Samuel Hayes Sr. (1953-1982); Mr. William Harshman (1982-1999) and Mrs. Christina Carney (1999-2004). The current advisor is Mr. Benjamin Mordan who has been serving in this position since 2004.
The National FFA Organization was established in 1928 with the purpose of bringing together students, teachers and agriculture industry to solidify support for agriculture education.
The FFA is devoted to preparing students for a successful career and a lifetime of informed choices.
Currently there are 7,358 chapters throughout all 50 states, including Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, with 500,823 FFA members worldwide.
The FFA prepares students for more than 300 careers in science, business and technology of agriculture.
Currently, the Tyrone Area FFA is trying to record alumni accomplishments while documenting its vast history.
A 75th anniversary celebration is being planned for 2013 and members are already starting to gather information.
One particular initiative the group is working on is compiling a complete list of all members who have received their American and Keystone Degree.
Anyone with information can contact the school at 684-4240, extension 3131.
