Flag Day Service Honors Our Nation & Those Who Serve

Submitted by Clint Tompkins, Exalted Ruler

Lt. Col. Shayne Carroll with Lodge officers at the Flag Day Service

Phoenix Elks Lodge #335 proudly continued the Elks tradition of honoring our nation’s Flag with our annual Flag Day Service. As the first and only fraternal organization to require a formal observance of Flag Day each year, this ceremony remains one of our most meaningful patriotic traditions.

This year’s service was especially memorable, drawing the largest audience since 2021. It was inspiring to see so many members, guests, veterans, families, and youth come together to celebrate our nation’s Flag and the freedoms it represents.

We were honored to welcome Lt. Col. Shayne “Shaka” Carroll, Commander of the 309th Fighter Squadron “Wild Ducks” at Luke Air Force Base, as our featured orator. Rather than simply delivering a speech, Lt. Col. Carroll shared a heartfelt and personal perspective on what the American Flag means to him and the responsibility that comes with defending the freedoms it represents.

One of the highlights was his interaction with the younger members of the Sea Cadets, encouraging them to reflect on the values of freedom, service, sacrifice, and patriotism.

A heartfelt thank you to Lt. Col. Carroll and his family; to the Sea Cadets and their commander for helping set up the Lodge and proudly carrying the historical flags; to Clem Brown, P.E.R., for his outstanding narration of the History of the Flag; to Joe Brown, P.E.R., for providing the music; and to all of our Lodge officers and volunteers whose dedication made this year’s Flag Day Service a truly memorable event.

Originally published in the August 2026 Tracks newsletter of Phoenix Elks Lodge #335. Read the full issue (PDF).

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