Akron Elks honor our nation’s flag
On Flag Day, June 14, Akron Elks Lodge #2579 carried on a tradition that was started in 1908 by the National Elks.
At that time, it was said to all lodges, “The purpose of Flag Day is to honor our country’s flag and to recall the achievements attained beneath its fold; all of which are meaningful to Elks.”
Since that time, most lodges carry on the tradition and hold a ceremony to honor the nation’s flag. Each lodge usually follows a program that has developed over the years, or they conduct a ceremony that is of their own choosing. This year, Commissioners Vance, Laybourn and Wells all attended the program.
Exalted Ruler Gail English opened the program at Odells, where the program has been held every year for quite a while. The program begins with different officers of the lodge having something to say to honor the flag.
Past Exalted Ruler Richard Parker then gave the history of the different flags, while John Horn held each flag. From the founding of Jamestown in Virginia in 1607 until 1775, the flag of England was called the Flag of America. In 1775, the flag was the Pine Tree Flag, as it had a pine tree on it.
From 1776-1777, the flag was called the Snake Flag, because of the snake on it. During that time, the Navy used the Grand Union, also called the Continental colors. On June 14, 1777, a flag was made with 13 red and white stripes alternating and 13 stars on a blue background. Some say the flag was made by Betsy Ross, who did make a flag like that and was used by the government. Others say there were others who made that flag.
In 1795, two stripes and two stars were added to the flag and that flag was flown over Fort McHenry during the War of 1812. On April 14,1818, Congress passed a resolution that the flag would contain 13 red and white stripes and 20 white stars on a blue background. It was also passed that a new star would be added to the flag when a new state was formed.
After all the flags were presented, the POW-MIA flag was shown. This flag was made to honor all veterans who had fought in wars and were prisoners of war or missing in action. The “Pledge of Allegiance” was then said by all who were in attendance at the program. At the conclusion of the program, the Elks thanked Odells for allowing them to hold the program there every year.
It is not a very long program, but is well worth the time to honor the flag which flies over the United States. Next year, if possible, plan on attending the Flag Day program held by the Elks.
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