Des Moines, IA 98

GER Message

There is much to commemorate in May

In May, we have numerous programs to Be The Difference: National Youth Week, Mother's Day, Armed Forces Day, and Memorial Day.

The first week of the month, May 1-7, is Elks National Youth Week. Honor the youth in your community at the end of their school year.

A variety of certificates are available online, including ones for Student/Teenager of the Year/Month and the Elks JROTC Awards Program.

Happy Mother's Day to the important ladies in our lives. Mother's Day is Sunday, May 10. We need to extend our heartfelt thanks to all mothers. If possible, find a way to honor the mothers in your life and plan a Lodge activity to let them know how much they mean to us.

Many of us may not automatically think of Armed Forces Day, which honors those currently serving in the U.S. military, held this year on Saturday, May 16. It was designated as a day for the unification of the armed forces to be celebrated together instead of celebrating each branch individually. God bless our troops who served throughout the history of our country.

Memorial Day is Monday, May 25. It is a wonderful time when we can recognize and commemorate the men and women of all services for their sacrifices and hard work that kept our country safe and prosperous.

Elks have a heart for remembering our departed service members by attending or participating in a Memorial Day parade, working at a cemetery ceremony, assisting in putting flags at service members' graves, or planning a memorial ceremony at your Lodge.

Always remember to Be The Difference by promoting "Elks Care--Elks Share."