Elks American Flag Day

History of Elks Flag Day

The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks is proud to be the first fraternal organization to formally celebrate Flag Day. In 1907, the Grand Lodge adopted a resolution mandating that every Elks Lodge hold a ceremony on June 14th to honor the American flag. This patriotic observance predates the national holiday by decades.

The Elks’ leadership in promoting respect for the flag helped inspire President Harry S. Truman (an Elk himself) and the United States Congress to establish June 14th as National Flag Day in 1949. Since then, every Elks Lodge across the nation has continued to observe this day with solemn ceremony, community gatherings, and tributes to our nation’s symbol of freedom.

The Ceremony

Each year on Flag Day, Elks Lodges across America conduct a formal ritual honoring the history, traditions, and ideals represented by our flag. The ceremony includes:

• Presentation of the Colors – Displaying the United States flag with dignity and respect.
• Historical Narration – Reviewing the development of the flag and its meaning to Americans.
• Pledge of Allegiance – Recited in unison by members and guests.
• Patriotic Music & Readings – Often including songs such as “The Star-Spangled Banner” and “God Bless America.”
• Closing Tribute – The Exalted Ruler or officiant leads a moment of reflection on liberty and unity under the flag.

“The Elks were the first to honor our Flag with a formal ceremony, and we continue to keep that proud tradition.”