Elks Lodge observes Flag Day on Sunday morning

GILFORD — Laconia Elks Lodge #876 held its annual Flag Day Ceremony Sunday at the lodge building in Gilford.

Exalted Ruler Sandra Shene and Past Exalted Ruler Frank Mello led the ceremony at which members of the Gilford Police Department Color Guard, the Gilford Fire Department Color Guard, the Knights of Columbus and members of local Boy Scouts took part.

Shene said that the Benevolent and Protective Order of the Elks is the only organization in the country to have a special ritual for the country's flag and that hundreds of Elks Clubs across the country were taking part in similar ceremonies the same day.

Past Exalted Ruler Doti Acres gave a history of the American flag since it was first sewn by Betsy Ross in May of 1776 and recounted how it inspired the National Anthem after survived the shelling of Fort McHenry in Baltimore during the War of 1812.

Mello discussed the meaning of the American flag for the people of the United States and what it symbolizes about the values of the nation; liberty, opportunity and loyalty.

Norman Dionne, eldest member of the Elks Lodge, led the sinning of ''America the Beautiful'' and was joined by those in attendance.

PHOTO CAPTION:

Past Exalted Ruler Doti Acres speaks at a Flag Day ceremony held Sunday morning at Laconia Elks Lodge #876 in Gilford as members of the Gilford Police Department Color Guard and the Knights of Columbus look on. (Roger Amsden/for The Laconia Daily Sun)