Since the terrorist attacks of September 11^th it has become 
fashionable to be patriotic again. “United We Stand”   
“One Nation Under God”  “Proud to be an American”  
“USA  USA  USA” , the flying of the American Flag.  
Many Americans had forgotten what the true meaning 
of the words free, liberty and patriot.

            Free – having political liberty, unrestricted,
                independent               

        Liberty – freedom from bondage or restraint – power
               to act according to one’s natural right as an 
               individual

      Patriot – one who loves his country and upholds
              its interests

Our wounds are still healing from the September 11^th  
attacks and sadly our nation now also mourns American 
soldiers killed in the “War on Terrorism”.  
As Memorial Day, Flag Day and Independence Day 
approach American’s once again will remember the 
true meaning of these national holidays.

Since the founding of our nation American’s have fought 
for our Rights of Freedom.  But our freedoms have a 
high price.  There are no words that can express the 
gratitude, which each American should feel towards 
our veterans. Their acts of patriotism have given us 
freedoms that we sometimes take for granted.  
The next time you express a difference of opinion with 
an elected official, attend a town meeting, write a letter 
to an editor, turn on your TV or radio and watch or listen 
to what you want or vote on election day , ask yourself 
“Without our veterans  would we have these freedoms?”

The patriotism that We , The Benevolent and Protective 
Order of  Elks, Share is evidenced by our acts of giving 
demonstrating that Elks Care.

Our Sincere Gratitude and Thanks to our Veterans

               The West Virginia  Elks Association

        Click here to view "The Memorial" Slide Show