Last Thursday, June 14, The Smithtown Elks, together with Supervisor Wehrheim, Senator Mattera, Highway Superintendent Robert Murphy, Tax Receiver Deanna Varricchio, Suffolk County Clerk Vincent Puleo, Smithtown Elks member, John Zollo, other Elks members, with friends and family in attendance, once again celebrated Flag Day.
Members of the Smithtown High School West Wind Ensemble joined in the celebration by playing a selection of patriotic songs including the National Anthem, “God Bless America” and “America, the Beautiful.”
With the inspiration from the patriotic music of the Smithtown West Wind Ensemble playing patriotic songs, Supervisor Wehrheim reflected on his service in the military and described what the American Flag and Flag Day means to him and this Country. He described the symbol of freedom and hope that is embodied in the American flag. He further went on to say that we celebrate Flag Day as a way to recognize how fortunate and blessed we are to live in the greatest country on earth. The ceremony closed with a tribute to “Old Glory” narrated by Johnny Cash. It was a moving and memorable experience.
The Smithtown Elks hold a Flag Day ceremony every year. The eternal hope is to bring more attention to the celebration of Flag Day, make our youth aware of the special day and help foster a sense of American pride. Flag Day deserves the respect of each and every one of us. Especially during these turbulent times. After all, we are all Americans first and foremost. Some seem to forget that. We have the good fortune of living in these United States. This is something that we should not take for granted.
Together, with the Smithtown Elks Lodge, its members, our elected officials, friends, family, and members of our community, we will continue to celebrate Flag Day for years to come. It was a good day!
