PALM COAST, Fla. – Did you know when an American Flag is presented it’s folded 13 times with each fold representing something specific?
Members and guests of the Palm Coast Elks Lodge 2709 learned the history of the American Flag as the lodge paid tribute to more than 200 years of the Stars and Stripes on Flag Day.
Ceremonies were carried out across the United States honoring the history of the nation’s flag. Locally, led by Exalted Ruler Pete Lenhertz, the ceremony paid tribute to the flag and those who have served the country in the armed forces.
Career Navy Captain Flagler County Commissioner Greg Hansen teared up when speaking about his pride in the United States and his service to the country.
“Days like today remind me how proud I am to be American,” said Hansen, whose 31 years of active duty included a tour of Vietnam.
Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly shared his family’s history dating back to the Continental Congress, the signing of the Declaration of Independence, and in the American Revolution.
“Listening to the history of our flag, it’s too bad across America, the people that are in 2,000 different locations today, might not really understand it,” said Staly, referencing the No Kings protests taking place on Flag Day.
Patriotism was on full display from attendees, and Lehnertz teared up as he shared what he hoped attendees took away from the ceremony.
“I’m hoping that everybody walks away with better knowledge of the flag and better knowledge of what it means for the military and Americans in general,” said Lehnertz.
Lodge Advisor Gerald Dickens is moved each time he sees the American Flag.
“Every time it gives me chills, remembering what it all stands for, the veterans, the children, my service with the fire department EMS special operations on 9/11 and also in ’93. Every time I see the flag it gives me chills, goosebumps, and I’m so proud to be an American,” said Dickens.
An estimated 100 people attended the ceremony with former Flagler County Commissioner George Hanns leading the invocation. The Elks Lodge 2709 received a scholarship donation from the Palm Coast Business Professionals after the ceremony for $630.
