Cranberry Elks prop up patriotism through annual Flag Day tribute
A deep-rooted tradition will continue when the Cranberry Elks Lodge 2249 hosts its annual Flag Day ceremony at noon Saturday, June 14, at its headquarters along Route 19.
It’s a yearly tribute to the history and symbolism of the American flag — a gesture that the Elks have carried on since the holiday was signed into federal law by President Harry Truman in 1949.
The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks was first founded as a social club for medieval musical performers in 1868. It quickly expanded to include other philanthropic efforts, and in 1911, it became the first fraternal organization in the country to mandate the formal observance of Flag Day, a commitment its members still carry with reverence.
“We’ve always honored the flag,” said Cranberry’s exulted ruler Tom Vassallo, 58. “It’s one of our four core principles: charity, justice, brotherly love and fidelity and the symbol for charity is the American flag.”
As part of the annual weekend ceremony, members of the Cranberry VFW Color Guard will present the flag, followed by Scouts from Troop 404 raising it outside the lodge. Following the tribute, attendees are invited to enjoy light refreshments.
A reading of the flag’s historical significance will be on the agenda as a stoic reminder of the emblem’s evolution and its role as an ideal symbol of national unity.
The Elks have traditionally kept close ties to community veterans with its veterans committee, according to Vassallo. The group regularly holds special events, provides discounts on services, such as haircuts, and purchases Christmas gifts through an Adopt-a-Veteran Program.
“The Elks is different from any other organization because we’re distinctly American,” Vassallo said. “We don’t have branches outside the United States. It’s very important for us to honor the nation every year if we can through Flag Day and make sure that everyone knows what that flag actually stands for.”
Oftentimes, Vassallo said, it’s the camaraderie that has allowed the Elks to maintain a successful operation.
“The people are really great in this organization,” he said. “When you walk in there, we’re really a family. Everyone cares about each other, and we make sure that everyone feels like they’re a part of it. That’s one of the greatest things about it.”
This year’s Flag Day also coincides with the U.S. Army’s 250th birthday, an occasion that President Donald Trump will mark with a military parade on Saturday evening that honors the Army’s eras.
