June 15, 2000

Kraham, Binghamton Elks’ Lodge No. 852, Honor American Flag

BINGHAMTON, N.Y. - County Executive Jeffrey P. Kraham was the guest speaker last evening at the Annual Flag Day Ritual sponsored by the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, Binghamton Lodge No. 852, located on the corner of Trim Street & Route 11 in Kirkwood. David P. Lees, Past Exalted Ruler, served as Master of Ceremonies, and introduced among others William C. Zitzow, the Lodge’s Exalted Ruler.

Mr. Zitzow told the large audience assembled, "The purpose of this service is to honor our country’s Flag, to celebrate the anniversary of its birth, and to recall the achievements attainted beneath its folds."

The colors of the United States were presented by the Broome County Veterans Memorial Association. The German Club Musikverein offered a stirring selection of patriotic music.

In an especially moving portion of the ceremony, Mr. Zitzow presented framed certificates of appreciation to more than thirty local veterans who have offered distinguished service to the United States.

"To me, the American Flag is about patriotism," said Mr. Kraham, "the love and dedication we have to our country and our community. And that’s way it is so appropriate for me to be here today at the Binghamton Elks Club. Your citizenship, whether its sponsorship of a drug-free party for young people, or reaching out to local kids for your community service programs, sets a powerful example for all of us."

The Binghamton Lodge No. 852 honored several young persons who have recently received Eagle Scout Awards and Gold Awards. The Eagle Scouts included Andrew J. Hodges, Daniel Martin, and Christopher Norman. Heidi Hughes and Amanda Hill were recognized for achievements leading up to the Girl Scouts’ Gold Award.

Joseph E. Thompson, Past Exalted Ruler, gave a remarkable history of the American Flag including, during the ceremony, the display of earlier versions including: the Pine Flag, the Snake Flag, the Continental Colors, the Rangers’ Flag, and the Stars and Stripes.

"Our Flag is at once a history, a declaration and prophecy. It represents the American nation as it was at its birth; it speaks for what it is today; and it hold the opportunity for the future to add other stars to the glorious constellation," Mr. Thompson said.

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