Elks Honor 385th Anniversary Of The National Guard, Local Lodge Begins Veterans Welcome Home Project
National Elks president T. Keith Mills recently announced local Elks lodges from every state, Guam, Puerto Rico and the Panama Canal Zone congratulates and offers their gratitude on the 385th anniversary of the National Guard.
The National are older than the formation of these United States. They are older than the U.S. Army. They have been called the “weekend warriors” and “citizen soldiers,” yet they have fought in every major conflict in American history. They are 385 years old, being born on Dec. 10, 1636.
In 1636, the Massachusetts Bay colony organized the first units, with males, ages 16 to 60, which were required to join. Then they were called the militia — today they are known as the Army National Guard. In addition to its other duties, the National Guard also works in partnership with 84 other countries training them in military techniques, explosive disposal exercises, medical readiness and NCO/Officer development programs. The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks has made more than $12 billion in donations since they started 154 years ago. Last year alone, the Elks donated approximately $351 million in cash, gifts and time to make our communities better places to live.
The Wolf Point Elks Lodge #1764 recently kicked off their Veterans Welcome Home Project with a donation to a Scobey veteran.
Every night, as many as 40,000 veterans are living on the streets. Each with a different story, they all shared a common pledge: to support and defend this country. Their service is done. Now, it’s the Elks’ turn to serve.
Most veterans move into their homes with nothing. Elks can help veterans establish their homes by building Welcome Home Kits. Generally, this kit includes some small furniture, kitchenware and cleaning supplies. Items can be new or used, donated or purchased.
There are nearly 1,800 Elks lodges across the country with a total membership of around 800,000. Elks’ members must be American citizens who are at least 21 years of age and must believe in God. To learn more, visit www.elks.org. For membership information, visit Join. Elks.Org.
