After I was initiated, a family friend from the same chapter gave me her badge. She was initiated in 1919. She was 83 at the time, and had no children. She told me she wanted to be sure it went to a sister who would wear it and treasure it. I wore her badge and mine throughout college, and shared her story many times when others would ask why I wore two badges. She lived to be 99, and when she died, she had her 1932 chapter directory in her nursing home room, which was also given to me. I do feel it's better to wear it than store it, and that's what she wanted.

I don't know if it is widely known in Zetaland, but ZTA IO does sell returned badges. I purchased a turquoise and pearl one from IO.

That is the sweetest thing!! I know that you treasure that badge & her memory.

And when I finally go to learn the answer to the last question, my badge will go to someone like you. Thank you for this beautiful image.

A statement was issued by our President saying that the badges that were stolen were the badges of deceased members that were in storage.

Crap, that is utterly heartbreaking.

Wow, this has gone from bad to worse. So sad.

Oh man, that is horrible. I hope they don't melt those badges. They are certainly worth more than the sum of their parts. I also hope all other groups take this as a warning to tighten security on their own badge archives.

Enormously sad. I hope the authorities locate them (pins and suspects) quickly.

This absolutely breaks my heart, not only because those badges were once loved and treasured by their owners, but their families realized the significance and sent them back for safekeeping. I hope whoever did this is found and brought to justice, and I also hope it is not someone that is a current member. The thought of someone who knows the significance of our badge and ritual doing such a thing is simply horrific.

:(

Delta Delta Delta Official Comments
 

The national president of Delta Delta Delta has issued a statement. (Brief Summary)

The badges had been worn by members who are now deceased

None of the historic badges and fraternity vintage jewelry had been taken.

Badges stolen had been stored in a secure area of the national office.

Some of the news articles regarding the theft had inaccurate information.

The theft is under investigation by the police department.

Delta Delta Delta National Office
 

http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r...psa2ce81ef.jpgThe national office is located in Arlington, Texas.

Oh no, that just breaks my heart...

How incredibly sad.