Flag Day: An Elks Tradition
Our Flag Day Ceremony was held on Sunday, June 14, 2009 at 12 Noon. The Ceremony was conducted by the Lodge Officers, Chuck Kelly (PDDGER), Larry Galvin and our own Paldani Chapter - Order of the Arrow Boy Scouts. The Scouts then conducted a Flag Retirement Ceremony on the outside grounds for Lodge members and guests from the community. Refreshments followed.
Patriotism has characterized the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of the United States of America since the early days of the organization. Allegiance to the flag of our country is a requirement of every member.
In 1907, the BPO Elks Grand Lodge designated by resolution June 14 as Flag Day. The Grand Lodge of the Order adopted mandatory observance of the occasion by every Lodge in 1911, and that requirement continues.
The Elks prompted President Woodrow Wilson to recognize the Order's observance of Flag Day for its patriotic expression. But it was not until 1949 when President Harry Truman, himself a member of the Elks, made the proclamation that thereafter June 14 would be a day of national observance for the symbol of our country.
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