John H. Runkle was born December 30, 1908 and was very prominent in Harrisburg’s patriotic and veterans affairs.

He organized the 6th Regiment Field Band in 1929, and served as Commanding Officer of the 6th Regiment SVR for many years with the rank of Major.

John served in many offices in Gen. Hartranft Camp No. 15 and was elected Department Commander of Pennsylvania in 1938. He was elected Commander-in-Chief in 1949 at Indianapolis, Indiana. He served as chairman of the 1950 and 1961 Pennsylvania Dept. Encampments and as chairman of the 75 th National Encampment, held in 1956 at Harrisburg. At the time of his death he was a member of the National Council of Administration.

Brother Runkle died August 26, 1961 in the Harrisburg Hospital. He was 52.

Speaking for the Past Commanders-in-Chief, PCinC William M. Coffin (1924-25) wrote as follows:

“Brother Runkle’s devotion to his Country’s interest and to the Order of Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War was always manifest. Next to his name in our Book of Memories we shall inscribe the words ‘Semper Fidelis,’ and though he has passed from our visible presence, his virtues and his helpfulness will be long in our memories: and the Spirit of John Runkle will remain with us always.”

Submitted by PCinC Stephen A. Michaels

October 2006

Source: The BANNER, Vol. 65, No. 5, September-October 1961