Bill Neessen
Elk of the Year, POY, Public Relations Chairman
Posts: 2602
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Posted on: Dec. 19 2010,10:13 am |
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In early MAY 2010, one of our Boy Scout leaders asked one of our local residents and current Marine Sgt. Nathan Campbell to stop by with his gear and talk to the scout troop. Sergeant Campbell was about to leave on his third deployment to the Middle East, but he took his precious time to speak to our Boy Scouts. At this time the Lodge decided to adopt him and his unit. While it is nice to send needed items to the men and women serving our country, it is especially meaningful to support one of our LOCAL servicemen.
That started the OOH RAH Program. At least twice a month items were collected and sent to Sgt. Campbell and his unit. The United States Postal Service’s “If It Fits, It Ships” policy provided the boxes that were stuffed! Every delivery had thank you cards signed by our lodge members, in addition to toiletries, snacks, reading materials, Hickory Farms, socks, and other items.
A month before their husbands were to come home, the Orange Elks invited the wives to a “Marine Wives Date” luncheon. This event included a luncheon, hair styling, make up tips for the ladies and a goodie bag of beauty items.
The lodge, also has sent a $50 gift card to the families for the kids.
Last night, Sgt. Campbell, returned from his latest deployment. He delivered the flag to our lodge in person. He stated that our flag had been mounted to the back of a Humvee and flew during an 86 mile convoy in the heart of combat. It was a gratifying experience to the lodge members who were present for the presentation!
John Stone, E. R. received the flag from Sgt. Nathan Campbell. The flag is proudly displayed on the third floor of the lodge.
Edited by Bill Neessen on Dec. 19 2010,10:16 am
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