In 1955, he was elected exalted ruler of Kodiak Elks Lodge #1772, and in 1957 was elected president of the Alaska Territorial Elks Association. Not only was he a Charter member of Kodiak Lodge #1772, he also sponsored his good friend Benny Benson for membership into the Elks. Benny designed the Alaska State Flag.
PSP John Gibbons sponsored Benny into the Kodiak Elks Lodgew #1772
"How it all began"
Benny designed the Official Alaska State Flag