ELKS Honor Vets with Flag Day

On June 14, 2024, Elks Lodges across the United States, Puerto Rico, and the Panama Canal celebrated Flag Day, continuing a proud tradition established by the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks in 1908. The Elks remain the only fraternal organization that mandates a formal observance of Flag Day. The Lewis County Elks Lodge # 2883 proudly celebrated the Flag Day with the traditional Elks Ceremony followed by a Flag Retirement Ceremony which is held annually at the lodge.

The Elks' commitment to Flag Day began in July 1908, when the Grand Lodge initiated the annual nationwide observance on June 14. This tradition gained national recognition when President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed June 14 as Flag Day in 1916. The observance became official in 1949, when President Harry Truman, an Elks member from Independence, Missouri, signed it into law

For 156 years, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks has demonstrated an unwavering dedication to community and national service, donating over $12 billion. In 2024 alone, the Elks contributed approximately $465 million in cash, gifts, and volunteer time to enhance local communities.

The Elks are renowned for their patriotic and charitable initiatives. Each year, the organization awards over $4.5 million in college scholarships nationwide. The Elks Community Investment Program will allocate $15.9 million this year to support community projects. Additionally, the Elks' Veterans Service Program received $5 million to provide aid and comfort to America's veterans, including initiatives to end veterans' homelessness. For more information on these efforts, visit elks.org/vets.

With 1,841 Lodges and a membership of 790,203, the Elks continue to foster a spirit of patriotism and generosity. Membership in the Elks is open to American citizens who are at least 21 years old and believe in God. To learn more about the Elks and their mission, visit http://www.elks.org. For membership information, visit Join.Elks.Org or contact a member of the local Elks Lodge.

The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks is a premier patriotic and charitable organization committed to community service and national pride. Since 1868, the Elks have played a significant role in supporting veterans, students, and communities across the United States.