Companion Mark A. Byrd was born January 7, 1959, in Waterbury, Ct.  He graduated from Wilby High School 1978 as a stand-out Track and Field athlete.  Immediately after graduation, he joined the United States Army, serving in the Air Defense Artillery for 26 years. While in the military, he served in every enlisted leadership position except for Sergeant Major. While serving, Comp Byrd earned a B.S. in Management Computer Information Systems from Park University in 2011.

Companion Bryd joined Prince Masonry in April 1984. He is a member of Sunset Lodge # 76 (served as Worshipful Master from 2016-2018 and is currently the SDDGM for 25th Masonic district), El Paso Holy Royal Arch Mason chapter # 90 (presently serving as the Excellent Scribe), DeMolay Commandery # 22 (served as Eminent Commander from 2016-2018, and currently serving as the Prelate), and Lemuel G. Raynor Council # 8 (currently serving in the second year as the Thrice Illustrious Master).

Companion Byrd also joined Rio Grande Consistory # 24 in 1986, and he is a member of Oro Temple #9 A.E.A.O.N.M.S (served as Potentate from 2020-2021 and currently serving as the Lecture). He enjoys spending time with his girls and his Masonic family. He is a member of the American Legion Post 832 and supports the local Cancer Society.  He enjoys reading and watching basketball, football, and track and field in his spare time.