Fort Myers Elks Lodge #1288 honored local veterans May 21. A brief ceremony began with playing anthems of the five branches of the U.S. military followed by a color guard presenting the colors. After the ceremony, veterans and guests enjoyed a delicious dinner. Following the meal, David Lake, PSP, Esquire, presented a check for $7,000 for Hearts and Homes for Veterans Inc. The donation was made possible by a $4,000 Elks National Foundation Beacon Grant, a $2,500 Elks National Foundation Gratitude Grant, and $500 from the lodge charity account.
Pictured are Frank Mascari, PER; Phil Gersbach, PDD, Vice President at Large; David Santini, vice president of Hearts and Homes for Veterans Inc.; Richard Conley, PDD; David Lake, PSP, Esquire; and Rich Joslin.