A heartwarming night was spent at the Long Beach Veterans Hospital on November 12. In attendance from the Mission Viejo, Saddleback Valley Elks Lodge were Andy Dumont, Carol Bryan, Lloyd Bryan, Kathy Andrews, Lucky Walch, Dave Perry, and Sheryn Howlett.
Elks Veterans Committee member Sheryn Howlett with Veteran Everette Washington and his new blanket made by Esperanza students. The smile on his face says it all
Elks Lucky Walch and Sheryn Howlett with Bingo winner veteran Ron Smith
The Elks assisted the vets in playing bingo, handing out their prize money and just cheering them up. A big hit of the evening were the “Blankets for the Brave” made and donated by the special needs students at Esperanza Educational Center. The veterans were very impressed when they learned who had made the blankets.
Vets Committee member Sheryn Howlett said, “We will definitely be bringing more at the December 10 visit.” Cookies and lemonade were supplied and enjoyed by all. It’s always sad to say goodbye for the evening and we look forward to December and our Christmas celebration at the hospital.
The Elks pledge to the disabled veterans of the Civil War remains true to this day: “So long as there are veterans, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks will never forget them.” The Mission Viejo/Saddleback Valley Elks Lodge #2444 is celebrating 48 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 150-year history of giving. “Elks Care Elks Share” For information regarding Elks programs or membership in the Elks, call 949 830-3557.
Photo credits: Mission Viejo, Saddleback Valley Elks Lodge
Andy Costello
Elks PR and Marketing
