Honoring Our Veterans: More Than Just One Day of Remembrance
This Week's Guest Blogger: Aaron Barth, PER, Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Army (Retired)Lodge Tiler, Americanism Chairman, and Veterans Chairperson – Sanford Elks Lodge #1679
As Veterans Day approaches, we are reminded that honoring those who have served our country is more than a tradition. It is a responsibility, a privilege, and a commitment that should continue throughout the year.
As a retired Lieutenant Colonel, I understand firsthand the dedication, sacrifice, and commitment that military service requires. Supporting our Veterans is not simply an obligation to me; it is something I hold close to my heart.
At Sanford Elks Lodge #1679, supporting our Veterans is not something we do only on November 11. It is part of who we are as Elks.
From helping Veterans transition into permanent housing to providing food for those in need, participating in remembrance ceremonies, and supporting our North Carolina State Veterans Homes, our Lodge continues to find meaningful ways to say two simple words: Thank You.
Helping Veterans Find a Place to Call Home
One of the most meaningful ways the Elks support Veterans is through the Elks Welcome Home Kit Program.
For Veterans who have experienced homelessness, moving into permanent housing is a major milestone. However, having a roof overhead does not necessarily mean having everything needed to make that space a home.
That's where the Elks step in.
Through the Welcome Home Kit Program, Elks help provide essential household items that Veterans need as they begin a new chapter in their lives. These may include bedding, kitchen supplies, towels, cleaning products, and other everyday necessities.
It is a simple concept with a powerful impact. We are helping Veterans regain stability, independence, and dignity.
To learn more about our Lodge's commitment to Veterans, visit our Veterans Programs page.
Helping Put Thanksgiving Dinner on the Table
With Thanksgiving approaching, Sanford Elks Lodge #1679 is also supporting the Veterans Administration's annual Thanksgiving Food Drive through its Meal in a Bag initiative.
Members are encouraged to donate a complete bag of Thanksgiving meal ingredients, although individual food items are also greatly appreciated.
A complete bag costs approximately $25 at Walmart, making this an affordable opportunity for members to make a difference in the lives of local Veterans and their families.
The deadline for donations is November 4, 2026.
Donations may be placed in the collection box near the Lodge's front entrance.
For the complete list of requested food items and additional details, please read:
Imagine the difference we could make if every member donated just one bag or even a few items. Small acts of generosity, multiplied by our membership, can have a tremendous impact.
Veterans Day Ceremony – November 10, 2026
Another opportunity to demonstrate our commitment to Veterans is coming up on Veterans Day.
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs will host a Veterans Day Ceremony on Wednesday, November 10, 2026, at 11:00 AM, in Fayetteville, North Carolina.
Ceremony Details:
Date: Wednesday, November 10, 2026
Time: 11:00 AM
Location: Building 70, Ramsey Street, Fayetteville, NC
Dress: Business Casual
Important: The ceremony will be held at the Ramsey Street location, NOT the Raeford Road location.
The North Carolina State Veterans Homes are one of the North Carolina State Elks Association's Major Projects, and supporting these facilities is an important part of our statewide mission.
This ceremony provides an excellent opportunity for Sanford Elks members to stand alongside Veterans, their families, and VA leadership to demonstrate our appreciation for those who have served.
It will also provide an opportunity to connect with VA leadership, including several new leaders following the recent lifting of the VA hiring freeze.
I encourage our members to consider attending. Having Elks represented at events like this sends a powerful message that our commitment to Veterans extends far beyond the walls of our Lodge.
Remembering Those Who Made the Ultimate Sacrifice
Supporting Veterans also means remembering those who have given their lives in service to others.
On September 11, 2026, I had the privilege of participating in the 25th Anniversary Memorial Stair Climb, commemorating the tragic events of September 11, 2001.
I joined several members of Team Red, White & Blue, a nonprofit organization supporting Veterans, in this meaningful remembrance event.
Together, we honored the courage and sacrifice of those who lost their lives that day, particularly the firefighters and first responders who rushed toward danger to save others.
Through our participation, we helped raise more than $100 for the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation.
While the physical challenge was meaningful, the greater purpose was remembering the sacrifices made and ensuring that the legacy of those heroes is never forgotten.
Events like this remind us that service, sacrifice, and remembrance are values that connect our military Veterans, first responders, and the Elks community.
A Challenge to Our Members: Let's Make a Difference
As we approach Veterans Day and Thanksgiving, I would like to challenge every member of Sanford Elks Lodge #1679 to find at least one way to support our Veterans.
Whether you contribute to the Thanksgiving Food Drive, help with the Welcome Home Kit Program, attend the Veterans Day Ceremony, or simply take time to thank a Veteran for their service, your participation matters.
Our Veterans answered the call when our country needed them. Now it is our opportunity to answer the call when they need us.
We don't have to accomplish something extraordinary individually. We simply need to come together as Elks, united in our commitment to helping others.
Because honoring our Veterans is not just something we say. It is something we do.
God Bless Our Veterans, God Bless Our Troops, and God Bless America.
Aaron Barth, PER Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Army (Retired) Lodge Tiler | Americanism Chairman | Veterans Chairperson Sanford Elks Lodge #1679
Elks Care – Elks Share!
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