"So long as there are Veterans, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks will never forget them."

Throughout November, the Order increases its efforts on behalf of veterans with sincere gratitude. Elks do more than just remember veterans and how their service secured and preserves our freedom; Elks reach out to these men and women.

Lodges welcome veterans for a meal or special celebration. Elks stop by hospitals and nursing homes to visit with an adopted veteran. They write letters and collect gifts to provide comfort and meet needs; plan events and outings to keep veterans active; and bring attention to the heroic deeds of our veterans. Elks assist families of active service men and women to ease their burden, and also honor families of fallen soldiers.

From Lodge to Lodge, Elks recognize and say thank you to veterans. The Elks National Veterans Service Commission oversees programs like Adopt-a-Veteran and Army of Hope, and supports the work of VAVS representatives in VA hospitals across the country. With funding from the Elks National Foundation, the Elks Veterans Service Commission strives to provide aid and comfort to any veteran in need.

To learn more about the Elks National Veterans Service Commission, visit www.elks.org/vets.