The Mission Viejo Saddleback Valley Elks Lodge #2444 held a special meeting open to the public in a tribute to the flag of our country. The Lodge Flag Day program took place on June 14. Exalted Ruler Greg Morgan and his corps of officers conducted the impressive ceremony. The Scouts of Troop 639 presented the Colors. The National Anthem was sung by Trabuco High School student Chloe Robbins. Our nation’s historic flags were then presented by the Scouts with a history of each one read by Lodge Secretary Norm Jones PDDGER. The “Stars and Stripes” was read by Larry Colgan and a patriotic address given by Jerry Muir. Comments were made by many guests who said they had learned much about the history of our flag and enjoyed seeing the actual flags of the times presented. All in attendance joined in a chorus of “God Bless America” and refreshments were served.
The Mission Viejo/Saddleback Valley Elks Lodge #2444 is celebrating 50 years of service to Saddleback Valley Communities. It is one of 8 lodges in the Orange Coast District of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks (BPOE) whose headquarters is in Chicago, Illinois. The BPOE is a charitable organization with a 152-year history of giving. “Elks Care Elks Share”. For information regarding Elks programs or Elks membership, call 949 830-3557.
by Andy Costello
Photo Credits Rick Moscoso
Larry Colgan reading “Stars and Stripes”
Flag Day cake
Scouts of Troop 639
