The Brainerd Elks Lodge #615 held a Flag Day Ceremony on June 14, 2024, starting at 4 pm. Visitors learned the history of the flag of the United States, through a presentation of the colors by the Brainerd Honor Guard and an explanation of the significance and tradition of our flags through the years. Youth from area Scout Troops and the Civil Air Patrol presented the flags of our history. The event took place at the All-Veterans Memorial on the east lawn of the Historic Crow Wing County Courthouse at 4th and Laurel Streets in Brainerd. 

In 1949, President Harry Truman signed legislation designating June 14th of each year as national Flag Day. Though Flag Day is not a federal holiday, the U.S. Government encourages its citizens to display old glory outside of their homes and businesses.

Flag Day is the holiday when we celebrate the fact that on this day in 1777, we adopted our national flag. The red signifies valor and willingness to sacrifice. Blue stands for vigilance and justice. White represents pure intentions and high ideals. The Elks have celebrated this since 1890.

The flag is on all of our national buildings, state buildings, many of our homes, on ships, and even on the Moon.

(Photos Courtesy of Mark Persons, Brainerd VFW)