- July 12, 2025
A history of the American flag, on display, at the Palm Coast Elks' Flag Day ceremony on June 14, 2025. Photo by Brian McMillan
Saluting the flag at the Flag Day ceremony, organized by the Palm Coast Elks Lodge 2709. Photo by Brian McMillan
Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly. Photo by Brian McMillan
Elks Exalted Ruler Pete Lehnertz. Photo by Brian McMillan
Flagler County Commissioner Greg Hansen. Photo by Brian McMillan
William Hall explains the symbolism of the folds in the flag, demonstrated by Tom Coleman and Jerry DiMenna, at the Flag Day ceremony on June 14, 2025. Photo by Brian McMillan
The Palm Coast Business Professionals Network donated $630 to the Elks Lodge after the Flag Day ceremony on June 14, 2025. Photo by Brian McMillan
American freedom wasn’t won just once. It was repurchased with every battle fought by American soldiers since 1775.
That was the sentiment conveyed at the Flag Day ceremony June 14, at the Palm Coast Elks Lodge 2709.
Joining other lodges around the United States, the Palm Coast Elks helped the community remember the history and symbolism of the American flag: how it has flown over lands near and far, inspiring people to strive for virtues of bravery, purity and justice, along with the Eks’ cardinal virtues of charity, justice, brotherly love, and fidelity.
William Hall delivered the speech as Elks members brought flags representing the progression of the flag’s design through history. One of the largest crowds in recent years at the ceremony participated in singing the national anthem, “God Bless America” and reciting the pledge of allegiance.
Sheriff Rick Staly praised the Elks for keeping the spirit of the flag alive. If people around the country thought more about the history of the flag, there might not be as many people protesting around the country, he said.
Finally, County Commissioner Greg Hansen spoke, explaining how he had served in the U.S. Navy for 27, including commanding two warships and serving in Vietnam for a year.
“I’m very proud to be an American — very proud,” he said, “and days like this reinforce that.”
Elks leadership includes Exalted Ruler Pete Lenhertz and Jerry DMenna, Gerald O’Gara, Frank Amaturo, William Hall, Charles Bensley, Richard Glover, Michael Cook, Dominic Austrino and John Lyons.
