A Message from Past Exalted Ruler Gayle Knorr
Memorial Day commemoration speach at the Dillon Cemetery - May 26, 2008
"I am honored to be asked to speak to you on behalf of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of The United States of America.
The Order of Elks has a long tradition of honoring this Nation’s veterans, and especially those that have given their lives fighting for our liberties.
Since our inception in 1868, we have been committed to the ideals of charity and patriotism. On behalf of our 1 million American citizen members, I wish to extend our greatest thanks to those that have served to protect and secure our most precious gift of freedom.
I am humbled once again on this day of remembrance, when I take this time to reflect on the many sacrifices made to protect the religious, social and political freedoms we enjoy in this great Country.
I am reminded that freedom, by its nature, is a chosen privilege that should be cherished and protected. The men and women we honor here today chose to serve a cause larger than themselves… a cause larger than their own wants and needs… – The cause of freedom - and in so doing, have added untold strength to our Nations character.
In remembering their lives, we should strive to live our lives for the same cause of one Nation under God, with Freedom, Liberty and Justice for all.
May God bless those that have gone before us, and may God Bless each of you today and everyday, and May God Bless America."