Des Moines, IA 98

GER Message

Big June weekend celebrates the US flag, fathers

It's Grand Lodge Convention time! We will be getting together from June 29 to July 2 in Kansas City, Missouri. I hope to see you at the convention.

Please take advantage of all the wonderful seminars, meetings, and ceremonies. Visit the exhibit halls and booths and spend time with other states' gatherings and events to meet Elks from across America. States come together to discuss and swap their best ideas. Elks Care -- Elks Share is our motto.

Flag Day on Saturday, June 14, is an important mandatory service for Elks. It's a great way to involve local Scout groups and JROTC teams to participate in your ceremony. Invite veterans to attend and participate during the ceremony. Pass out flag pins. Our flag is precious to us as Elks, and we need to display it with reverence and dignity.

Our fathers are also precious to us. Father's Day is on Sunday, June 15. My father and my grandfathers were Elks, and they started the legacy for me and my son and sons-in-law. I am proud to say that I got my dedication to service from what I saw my father and grandfathers do. Thank the dads in your life.

It's been an amazing honor and privilege to serve you and our great Order as Grand Exalted Ruler for 2024-2025. Thank you all.

God bless you, God bless our troops, and God bless America!