SAI dilemma...got suggestions??
 

Hey SAI's

I won a semi-antique badge off Ebay. I plan on keeping the badge and wearing it because the one I was given when I initiated is damaged and has been since I got it.

Dilemma: The badge has a Sword of Honor attached to it. I won't wear that, I didn't earn it. It also has a chapter guard from Alpha Alpha. That chapter is still active, but judging from the initiation date inscribed on the badge (1942), it's less likely than not the original owner is still alive. So first:

Do any of you know of anyone that has earned a sword, lost it, and needs a new one?

If not, would you just return it to the chapter with a note?

Or send it to your collegiate chapter?

Or just leave it in a drawer and have it returned to HQ with the badge when I die?

Or donate it to a local chapter?

Thanks!

I'd contact national headquarters and ask Ruth about this - she'll have an answer for you! BTW (and I know this is a case of too little, too late), you can always return your damaged badge for a new one. My original badge was mangled when it took a trip through my vaccum cleaner :eek: and I was able to get a brand, spankin' new one!

I would suggest that you notify Nationals and see if you can request to either donate it to a chapter or keep it for your own for the next awarding.

Some chapters are a little lacking in the pocket, like mine, and so when an alum willed her badge to our chapter for initiates with some financial struggle, it came in most convenient. The Sword of Honor could fall under the same category.

I strongly advise against keeping it in a drawer or for your life. It symbolizes work and effort and is meant to award, thus.

Truly up to Nationals, and they would want it back, but they may be a bit lenient.