This pledge rang true on a November night at the Wichita, Kansas Elks Lodge No. 427. With the help of a Community Investments Program Gratitude Grant, the Lodge honored 10 soldiers who gave their lives so that we may remain free. Elks from Wichita and Southern Kansas recognized these heroes with Medals of Valor, commemorating their bravery and strength. Their families gratefully accepted the awards on behalf of their fallen soldiers.

In the spirit of family and country, the evening began with dinner and the opportunity for all those in attendance to become acquainted with one another. After eating, the Color Guard from Truesdall Middle School led everyone in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance. The most esteemed guest of the night, second only to the families, was Wichita’s very own Chief Master Sgt. John Gebhardt of the McConnell Air Force Base, who gained national attention in 2006 for a photo of him holding an injured Iraqi child.

The photo was taken while Gebhardt was deployed to the Balad Air Base in Iraq. The young child suffered extensive gunshot injuries to her head when rebels attacked her family, killing both of her parents and many of her siblings. Gebhardt had a unique connection with the child and the ability to comfort her. They often would nap together in a chair, him cradling her in his arms.

“I got as much enjoyment out of it as the baby did," he said. “I reflected on my own family and life and thought about how lucky I have been."

A dramatic tone was set by the various speakers of the evening and their words both moved and inspired the humble audience. They spoke on behalf of the Medal of Valor honorees and shared stories of patriotism, heroism and pride. One speaker touched on the Elks Army of Hope, which gives help to any family of a soldier oversees.

Mr. Frank Bergquist, CEO of the Disabled American Veterans Thrift stores in Wichita, gave mention of the many other Medal of Valor soldiers buried right in Wichita, some even dating back to the Civil War. Just like the night’s honorees, each of those men had a story to tell and a family they left behind. Bergquist reminded us that their honor will never die as long as we remember.

“At times there wasn’t a dry eye anywhere,” says David Noah, a member of Wichita Lodge No. 427, in attendance. “In my 25 years as an Elk, I have never been so proud. What was accomplished that evening will have a lasting impression on those families.”

In 2008-09, the Elks National Foundation allocated $1.37 million for the Community Investments Program. For more information, visit www.elks.org/enf/community.