Elks Lodge encourages citizens to observe Flag Day

Havre Elks Lodge No. 1201 of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks again was very proud and honored to be part of the community Memorial Day service, melding our Flag Day tradition with their Memorial Day service, exemplifying the motto: "One Nation, Under God" — one community, one nation, honoring our flag, our country, our troops.

Throughout our American history, the significance of the U.S. flag's colors has come to correspond with those of the great seal of our country: white signifying purity and innocence; red hardiness and valor; and blue vigilance, perseverance and justice. The stars becoming symbolic of the heavens and the divine goal to which man has aspired from time immemorial and of the Union itself.

In September of this year, "The Star Spangled Banner," our national anthem since 1931, will celebrate the 200th anniversary of its composition by Francis Scott Key. Today, we see the glorious star spangled banner wherever we turn: on homes, businesses, vehicles and bill boards. Such displays stimulate and rekindle our love for our nation and for that for which it stands. It reminds us of the sacrifices being made by the men and women of our armed forces around the world; it is a tribute to the heroes of our protective services here at home; and it is homage to the countless numbers of service men and women who have served, fought and died beneath its glorious folds.

Havre Elks Lodge No. 1201 encourages all citizens to honor our country's flag June 14, Flag Day: to celebrate and remember the lives of those who have so proudly served beneath it, to revere the many achievements and victories which have been accomplished for its, and our country's, honor, and to pray for God's blessings upon those who so valiantly protect us today.

Bob Nieuwenhuyse

Exalted ruler, Havre Elks Lodge No. 1201