Flags during the Flag Day ceremony on Staten Island’s Elks Lodge in Eltingville.
Photo by Martin King
Patriotism filled the air at a popular Elks Lodge’s Flag Day ceremony on Staten Island last week.
Members of the Staten Island B.P.O. Elks Lodge 841, located in Eltingville, joined by family, friends and elected officials, gathered on June 14 to honor the Stars and Stripes during its annual Flag Day celebration. This year’s observance carried added significance as it coincides with America’s semiquincentennial, marking the nation’s 250th birthday.
Richmond County (Staten Island) District Attorney Michael McMahon addressed the crowd of approximately 100 patriotic attendees about the importance of Flag Day and patriotism. The lodge’s Exalted Ruler Hanane DeBjat presided over the ceremony, standing in for Martin King, the current elected leader of the organization.
The ceremony featured a solemn, dignified flag-burning, led by past Exalted Ruler Gary Gatens. A ceremonial burning is the most respectful way to retire an American flag that is worn, torn or otherwise no longer fit for display, as recommended by many veterans organizations.
Richmond County DA Michael McMahonPhoto by Thomas Aiello, Jr.
Donna Ladolcetta, secretary of the lodge, recited a reading about the origins of Flag Day.
Flag Day, held on June 14, marks the anniversary of the 1777 resolution by the Second Continental Congress to establish the first official U.S. flag. President Woodrow Wilson officially made June 14 Flag Day in 1916; Congress made it a national observance in 1949.
A Staten Island Flag Day ceremony.Photo by Thomas Aiello, Jr.
Flag Day is not a federal holiday, but a day for Americans to recognize and celebrate the U.S. flag. Elks Lodges across the country celebrate and recognize the occasion.
Thomas Aiello, Jr., a trustee at the Staten Island Elks Lodge, explained that the day is a powerful reminder of the country’s shared history and values that unite Americans.
“Celebrating it is a moment to honor the foundations built by past generations, while recommitting ourselves to working together toward a more perfect, inclusive future,” Aiello said. “Ultimately, looking up at the Stars and Stripes gives us a shared point of pride and reminds us of our collective dedication to liberty and community.”
Attendees at the event, which included Scouting America troops and their parents, recited the Pledge of Allegiance. Bud Kososych sang a beautiful rendition of The Star-Spangled Banner.
Anonia Aiello, Elise Chan Ferrante and Tyler Ferrane from Staten Island attended the event.Photo by Thomas Aiello, Jr.
Aiello said the event, which each year resonates with respect for the flag and recognizes those who served under it, promotes awareness of its meaning.
“Elks Lodge 841 is proud to continue the tradition to celebrate our flag, honor those who fought for it and educate those who may not be familiar with the tradition,” he said.