Kenton Elks Observe Flag Day with Local Scout Members

The Downtown Kenton Elks was the picture of patriotism Friday as local scouts helped members of Elks Lodge 157 honor Flag Day with a colorful ceremony in observance of the national holiday.

“It’s about the flag, patriotism, what our lodge stands for — charity, justice, brotherly love,” said Elks Exalted Ruler Derek Kaufman.

Since 1908, Flag Day celebrations have been mandatory for lodges within the fraternal organization, which has had a lodge in Kenton since 1890. Kaufman said the holiday is an ideal fit with the group’s mission.

“We do a lot with veterans’ organizations, children, seniors,” he said. “Since our lodge has been in existence we’ve given back millions to the Kenton and Hardin County community.”

That includes everything from high school scholarships and grants to local charities to holiday gifts for the needy and providing free dinner for vets on many occasions throughout the year.

Friday’s public ceremony included a history of the evolution of the United States flag from colonial days through the banner’s modern incarnation. As a description of each successive flag was read by lodge member and retired Kenton educator Bob Davis, scouts from Boy Scout Troop 150 carried replicas of each flag in front of a crowd of about three dozen people gathered at the lodge.

Kaufman said the event is something Elks members look forward to each year because it’s a symbol of what the group stands for.

“We’re a community oriented group,” he said.

The Elks host many events and fundraisers for charity throughout the year. For more information on the Elks you can simply stop by the lodge or email info@KentonElks157.com.