A Flag Day ceremony was held at the Marion Elks 32 Lodge at 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 14th. With eight of the nation's historic banners behind them, representatives of the Marion Elks Lodge 32 and Delaware Elks Lodge 76 conducted a moving ceremony that paid tribute to the Stars and Stripes and explained its history. The historic flags were presented by members of Boy Scout Troop 32, which was originally sponsored by the Marion Elks. Veteran James Sloan of Marion gave a patriotic address, which was followed by the singing of patriotic songs, led by a chorus of the children of Elks members. A reception and dinner followed the ceremony. Flag Day: An Elks Tradition Patriotism has characterized the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of the United States of America since the early days of the organization. Allegiance to the flag of our country is a requirement of every member. In 1907, the BPO Elks Grand Lodge designated by resolution June 14 as Flag Day. The Grand Lodge of the Order adopted mandatory observance of the occasion by every Lodge in 1911, and that requirement continues. The Elks prompted President Woodrow Wilson to recognize the Order's observance of Flag Day for its patriotic expression. But it was not until 1949 when President Harry Truman, himself a member of the Elks, made the proclamation that thereafter June 14 would be a day of national observance for the symbol of our country.
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